Research Fellow (Fixed-term)

About the role

The successful candidate will conduct work as the primary Research Fellow on the EPSRC funded research project “Exposing the micro mechanics of continuum parameters for clay”. The project involves extensive discrete element modelling of clay using YADE on the Nottingham HPC. It will expose origins of continuum parameters for the primary clay minerals in London clay by performing simulations of normal compression, shearing, unload-reload hysteresis and creep. A second Research Fellow will work on the project for a duration of 3 years starting one year after the project begins. By studying the primary minerals, the work will explain the origins of the continuum parameters for London clay used in design and analysis. An important part of the work will be branching out to other disciplines such as the ceramics industry and those working on landfill liners, cosmetics and agriculture and disseminating the findings in these areas.

Candidates should have a PhD in Geotechnical Engineering and should have extensive experience of discrete element modelling, preferably using YADE and an understanding of clay behaviour and of recent published work on clay platelet interaction.

This full-time post will be offered on a fixed-term contract for 4 years.

On a typical day, you will be engaged in your core research activities (approximately 70% of your time), of developing and running numerical simulations using YADE. The other 30% of your time will be taken up with evaluating data, producing publications and contributing to future proposals in addition to travelling to conferences (including those not in mainstream geotechnics but relevant to clay such as ceramics, cosmetics and waste containment, for example).

The post is based at the Coates Building, University Park, University of Nottingham, and offers an excellent opportunity to work in a stimulating, research-intensive environment with strong prospects for future project involvement should further funding be secured.

About the team

You will join the Nottingham Centre for Geomechanics, working closely with Professor Glenn McDowell. You will have access to the extensive expertise, facilities, and interdisciplinary knowledge base across the wider Faculty of Engineering. We are keen to attract candidates with extensive experience in DEM. Experience in DEM of clays and of using YADE would both be distinct advantages.

About you

You will:

• Hold a PhD in soil mechanics or an area related to clay
• Have strong experience in discrete element modelling, preferably using YADE
• Have experience in publication of high-quality journal papers
• Experience in organisation and management of projects
• Experience in contributing to new ideas and research proposals 

What we offer 

We offer a friendly, diverse, and supportive working environment, with opportunities to develop your research profile and broaden your expertise. Benefits include:

• A hybrid working arrangement with a blended approach to home and office working
• Generous holiday entitlement of 27 days (pro rata) plus standard bank holidays and five university closure days, including closure between Christmas and New Year
• Access to our reward scheme recognising excellent work
• Commitment to staff development through training, support, and career progression opportunities
• Access to a wide range of benefits, including fitness and health facilities, staff discounts, and travel schemes 

What next 

To apply for this vacancy, please click ‘Apply Now’ to complete your details, following the criteria-based application guidance provided. 

For informal enquiries, contact Professor Glenn McDowell (glenn.mcdowell@nottingham.ac.uk). Applications sent directly to this email address will not be accepted.

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