Research Assistant/Associate in Computational Modelling
Research Assistant/Associate in Computational Modelling
Newcastle University
Newcastle, United Kingdom
The role
To work with Dr Elizabeth Heidrich, Dr Toby Wood, Dr Richard Law and Dr Chris O’Malley on the EPSRC-funded project “METzero – Bringing the water sector towards Net-Zero using Microbial Electrochemical Technologies (METs)”. The goal of this project is to unlock the resource potential of wastewater by developing microbial electrochemical technologies capable of treating wastewater whilst recovering resource. It will combine pilot scale research in reactor design and optimisation, electronics engineering, and mathematical modelling.
We are looking for an excellent and enthusiastic Research Associate/Assistant who will use mathematical modelling techniques to support the design and optimisation of large-scale microbial electrolysis cells for wastewater treatment. You will be required to develop code and use existing code written in Python that combines computational fluid dynamics with an electrogenic biofilm model. You will work alongside experimentalists to validate the model and then use it to optimise flow and performance of these systems. You will design and execute research into the operation and design on these units in order to optimise their performance for wastewater treatment and energy recovery.
You will have a PhD in Mathematics, Engineering or related field and will have experience in developing code, ideally for fluid-based systems.
You must be able to work in a systematic and rigorous way and be capable of managing day to day elements of the research. You will be required to write scientifically rigorous research papers and to present your work to non-specialist audiences.
As part of our commitment to career development for research colleagues, the University has developed 3 levels of research role profiles. These profiles set out firstly the generic competences and responsibilities expected of role holders at each level and secondly the general qualifications and experiences needed for entry at a particular level.
Key Accountabilities
- Developing and using combined biofilm and computational fluid dynamic models to simulate dynamics inside reactors
- Participation in the research activities of the Environmental Engineering group at Newcastle University
- Publication of high-quality research papers in journals of international standing
- Presentation of results at external meetings and seminars
- Minor involvement in the teaching activities of the School, as mutually agreed
- Any other duties that may be required from time to time, commensurate with the grade of the post
The Person Specification
Knowledge, Skills and Experience
Essential
- Strong theoretical and/or computational background in fluid dynamics
- Track record of high-quality research, including publication in journals of international standing
- Excellent programming and numerical skills and ability to use programing languages and packages such as COMSOL
- Excellent communication skills, both written and verbal, evidenced through contribution to national or international conferences
- At least one peer-reviewed publication in a relevant research field
Desirable
- Knowledge or background in microbiological or biofilm models
Attributes and Behaviour
Essential
- Ability to communicate scientific results to a broad or non-specialist audience
- Ability to work independently using own initiative and to meet deadlines
- Demonstrable ability to work collaboratively as part of a team, including participating in research meetings and working on joint research projects
- Ability to set own research goals, be self-motivated and proactive
- Commitment to the values of equality, diversity and inclusion in all aspects of your work
Desirable
- An interest in or experience of working with industrial stakeholders
- Experience of working in a trans-disciplinary project
Qualifications
Essential
- A PhD (or be close to obtaining) in Applied Mathematics, Physics, Engineering or a related subject
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