Postdoctoral Research Associate/Fellow: The University of Exeter’s Faculty of Environment, Science and Economy is seeking a Postdoctoral Research Associate or Postdoctoral Research Fellow to work on two projects focused on basal cognition in motile, unicellular organisms and helical rheotaxis in microswimmers. This full-time, fixed-term position is available immediately for a period of 2 years, with the possibility of extension. The successful candidate will develop mathematical and computational models of motile organisms and investigate different control mechanisms for self-propulsion. The role will be based at the Living Systems Institute and will offer a thriving community of cross-faculty postdoctoral researchers.
Summary Table:
| Position Title | Postdoctoral Research Associate/Fellow |
|---|---|
| Employer | University of Exeter |
| Faculty | Environment, Science and Economy |
| Location | Exeter |
| Salary | Starting from £31,411 for Associate; starting from £39,745 for Fellow, depending on qualifications and experience |
| Hours | Full-time |
| Contract Type | Fixed-term/Contract |
| Start Date | Immediate |
| Duration | 2 years, with possible extension thereafter |
| Closing Date | 13th March 2023 |
| Reference Number | P86833 |
| Study Area | Mathematical and computational modelling of microorganism swimming and self-propulsion |
Scholarship Description:
Postdoctoral Research Associate/Fellow in Mathematical and Computational Modelling of Microorganism Swimming and Self-Propulsion
The successful applicant will work on two projects: a European Research Council funded Starting Grant project “EvoMotion” on basal cognition in motile, unicellular organisms and a UKRI Biotechnology and Biological Sciences Research Council funded project on helical rheotaxis in microswimmers. The role will be based at the flagship Living Systems Institute (LSI) and will involve developing data-driven mathematical and computational models of motile organisms ranging from protists to small marine larvae. The successful candidate will also investigate different control mechanisms for self-propulsion at these scales, working closely with and complementing ongoing experimental investigations in the wider research group into the biophysics of motility in diverse species. The position is available immediately on a fixed-term basis for 2 years, with the possibility of extension.
Eligibility: Applicants must possess a relevant PhD (or nearing completion for Associate) or equivalent qualification/experience in mathematics or a similar field of study. The successful applicant will be a nationally recognised authority in low-Reynolds number hydrodynamics and possess sufficient specialist knowledge in the discipline to develop research programmes and methodologies. Proficiency in scientific programming and previous experience in mathematical modelling of low-Reynolds number flows is essential. The successful applicant will also be able to work collaboratively, supervise the work of others and act as team leader as required. Applicants should have a keen interest in interdisciplinary research and demonstrate a good understanding of soft matter or biological physics (broadly defined).
Required Documents: Applicants should submit a cover letter and curriculum vitae (CV) as part of their application. The cover letter should outline the applicant’s qualifications, experience and research interests, as well as their suitability for the position. The CV should include a list of publications.
How to Apply: Interested applicants should apply through the University of Exeter’s online application system. The job reference number is P86833. Applicants should ensure they read the Job Description and Person Specification for full details of the role.
Last Date: The closing date for applications is 13th March 2023.
