Research Associate in Robust Feedback Control Theory

Applications are invited for a Postdoctoral Research Associate (PDRA) to conduct research in fundamental robust feedback control theory via input-output methods under the supervision of Prof. Alexander Lanzon, Chair in Control Engineering at the University of Manchester and Head of Department of Electrical and Electronic Engineering. This PDRA post will deliver the objectives of a research grant awarded by the Engineering and Physical Sciences Research Council (EPSRC) entitled “Input-restricted robust feedback control of nonlinear dynamical systems”.

The research involves developing fundamental robust feedback control theory for nonlinear dynamical systems using input-output operator theory and graph separation theory. Excellent knowledge of input-output dissipativity theory, input-output passivity theory, IQC theory, graph separation theory, and/or operator theory (e.g. manipulation of norms and inner-products) will be a strong asset. The recruited PDRA will have a solid understanding of feedback stability analysis and control theory using input-output approaches with strong functional analysis abilities and/or mathematical systems theory skills. You will also have demonstrable potential for performing leading-edge control theory research at an international level.

The input-output approach in control theory describes (linear and nonlinear) dynamical systems as operators mapping an input to an output. Feedback stability in this input-output framework means that endogenous signals around the feedback loop are well-behaved for all exogenous inputs – in an input space – injected into the feedback loop. Influential input-output feedback stability results which can be applied to nonlinear systems to guarantee robust feedback stability include the classical small-gain, input-output passivity, input-output dissipativity, and absolute stability criteria, as well as more modern input-output stability approaches such as the Integral Quadratic Constraint framework and dynamic dissipativity. In this project, you will create fundamental analysis and control theory for input-restricted feedback stability.

You will be expected to publish outstanding research in internationally leading journals such as IEEE Transactions on Automatic Control and Automatica. This is an ideal opportunity if you are interested in building outstanding research credentials which can help you secure a future academic career.

What you will get in return:

• Fantastic market leading Pension scheme
• Excellent employee health and wellbeing services including an Employee Assistance Programme
• Exceptional starting annual leave entitlement, plus bank holidays
• Additional paid closure over the Christmas period
• Local and national discounts at a range of major retailers

As an equal opportunities employer we welcome applicants from all sections of the community regardless of age, sex, gender (or gender identity), ethnicity, disability, sexual orientation and transgender status. All appointments are made on merit.

Our University is positive about flexible working – you can find out more here

Hybrid working arrangements may be considered.

Please be aware that due to the number of applications we are unfortunately not able to provide individual feedback on your application.

Please note that we are unable to respond to enquiries, accept CVs or applications from Recruitment Agencies.

Any CVs submitted by a recruitment agency will be considered a gift.

Enquiries about the vacancy, shortlisting and interviews:

Name: Professor Alexander Lanzon

Email: Alexander.Lanzon@manchester.ac.uk

General enquiries:

Email: People.recruitment@manchester.ac.uk

Technical support: jobseekersupport.jobtrain.co.uk/support/home

This vacancy will close for applications at midnight on the closing date.

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