Postdoctoral Research Associate in Large-scale Dynamics for Strongly Interacting Particle Systems

Location: Andrew Wiles Building, Radcliffe Observatory Quarter, Woodstock Road, Oxford, OX2 6GG

We invite applications for a Postdoctoral Research Associate in Applied Mathematics to work with Professor Maria Bruna at the Mathematical Institute, University of Oxford. This is a full-time, fixed-term position for 24 months, funded by a Royal Society University Research Fellowship. The starting date of the position is flexible, between January 2027 and October 2027.

The successful candidate will contribute to the research programme “Large-scale dynamics for strongly interacting particle systems”, investigating how collective behaviour emerges from stochastic systems of interacting particles. The research combines mathematical modelling, asymptotic analysis, probability theory, partial differential equations and computational approaches to derive and study macroscopic descriptions of complex particle systems. Topics include interacting diffusions, exclusion processes on lattices and active matter systems, with applications ranging from transport processes to collective behaviour in biological systems.

The post offers flexibility to develop research directions aligned with the candidate’s expertise and the project objectives, within an active, collaborative research environment involving national and international collaborators. Applicants should hold, or be close to completing, a PhD/DPhil in Mathematics or a related discipline, with a strong background in areas such as partial differential equations, probability, stochastic processes, asymptotic analysis or mathematical modelling. Previous experience in every aspect of the project is not required. The successful candidate will undertake original research, contribute to publications and presentations, and participate in wider research-group activities. Where grant conditions and departmental need allow, there may be opportunities for teaching, not exceeding three hours per week for 24 weeks of the year, with additional remuneration.

We proudly hold a departmental Athena SWAN Silver Award and an institutional Race Equality Charter Bronze Award. We welcome applications from all backgrounds, particularly from women and ethnic minorities.

Please direct informal enquiries to recruitment@maths.ox.ac.uk, quoting vacancy reference 189691.

As part of your application, you are asked to provide two references. Applicants are responsible for contacting their referees and ensuring that reference letters are uploaded to https://workflow.maths.ox.ac.uk/form/reference?vacancy_id=189691 by the closing date.

Applications for vacancy 189691 are to be made online. To apply and for further details, including the job description and selection criteria, please click the above 'Apply' button.

Applicants should read the job description for instructions on how to apply.

Only applications received before 12.00 noon UK time on 7^th December 2026 will be considered.

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