Postdoctoral Research Assistant in AI-informed Material Processing and Testing

Central Oxford

We are seeking a full-time Postdoctoral Research Assistant to work under the supervision of Professor Reece Oosterbeek and Dr Aaron Graham at the Department of Engineering Science (central Oxford), within the Solid Mechanics and Materials Engineering Group. The post is funded by the SCGC Fund for Innovation and Research in Sustainability and Technology (SCGC-FIRST) and is fixed-term for 12 months, 

This opportunity allows a postdoctoral researcher to work on an industrially facing project, applying artificial intelligence (AI) methods to better inform processing to obtain high-quality engineering polymers from recycled plastic feedstock. You will utilise pre-existing modern metrological methods such as MT 2.0/VFM to obtain rich datasets from a relatively sparse set of tests on recycled polymers, using additive manufacturing. AI methods will then be applied to this large database to inform optimal processing parameters that will produce components with reliable material properties. The process will be validated in a high-demand protective equipment application. You will be responsible for manufacturing and testing of materials, and development of a model to inform material design.   

You should possess a PhD in a relevant field (e.g. Engineering, Physics, Chemistry, Materials Science) or be close to completion prior to taking up the appointment. Previous experience with AI modelling is essential, and further experience in some (but not necessarily all) of the following would be advantageous: AI for materials design/discovery, mechanical testing and digital image correlation, polymer filament extrusion for FDM-based 3D printing.

You will be responsible for organising and overseeing your own research and administrative tasks, including managing small‑scale project activities and coordinating multiple work streams to meet deadlines. 

Informal enquiries may be addressed to Professor Oosterbeek and/or Dr Graham (email: reece.oosterbeek@eng.ox.ac.uk or aaron.graham@eng.ox.ac.uk) 

For more information about working at the Department, see www.eng.ox.ac.uk/about/work-with-us/ 

Only online applications received before midday on 4 March 2026 can be considered. You will be required to upload a covering letter/supporting statement, including a brief statement of research interests (describing how past experience and future plans fit with the advertised position), CV and the details of two referees as part of your online application.

The Department holds an Athena Swan Bronze award, highlighting its commitment to promoting women in Science, Engineering and Technology. 

AI for materials design

Materials discovery

Materials testing 2.0

Additive manufacturing

Sustainable materials

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