Research Assistant/Associate: Exploiting XFEL for High Energy Density and Materials Science (Fixed Term)

Start date: 1st July 2024

Fixed-term: The funds for this time-limited post are available until 31st January 2025.

Applications are invited for a postdoctoral research position in the Materials Theory Group led by Professor Pickard at the Department of Materials Science and Metallurgy, University of Cambridge.

The successful candidate will hold (or be close to obtaining) a PhD in condensed matter or materials physics, materials science (or similar) and have significant experience in density functional based first principles methods (CASTEP) and the computation of dynamical properties using machine learned interatomic potentials (EDDPs).

You will have a proven track record in the development and application of first principles methods in the study of materials, and preference will be given to candidates with experience in high pressure research, either static or dynamic.

The postholder for this computational project will be expected to be comfortable in a UNIX-like environment, developing tools for the high throughput control of computations and analysis of results. Structure prediction will be performed using the AIRSS and EDDP (machine learning potential) packages, and prior experience in structure prediction and/or dynamical simulations is preferred. An interest in modern approaches to data analysis and management would be an advantage, as would a theoretical appreciation of novel phenomena.

The ability to work in close collaboration with experimental groups / project partners in this research area is essential. The candidate must have the ability to manage their own workload and research data, and to publish scientific results in a timely manner.

The project is run in collaboration with the Universities of Edinburgh, York and Oxford and the postholder will be expected to attend and contribute to project meetings.

Interviews will be conducted in late May / early June and the anticipated starting date will be from 1st July 2024.

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We reserve the right to fill the position with a qualified candidate prior to the conclusion of the advertising period-

Please quote reference LJ41301 on your application and in any correspondence about this vacancy.

The University actively supports equality, diversity and inclusion and encourages applications from all sections of society.

The University has a responsibility to ensure that all employees are eligible to live and work in the UK.

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