Work type: Fixed Term
Location: Parkville
Division/Faculty: Faculty of Engineering and Information Technology
Department/School: School of Electrical, Mechanical and Infrastructure Engineering
Salary: $73,669 - $99,964 (Level A)
Role & Superannuation rate: Academic - Full time - 9.5% super

The University of Melbourne is consistently ranked among the leading universities in the world, we are globally engaged; comprehensive; research-intensive; and committed to responding to the major challenges of our time.

The Faculty of Engineering and Information Technology (FEIT) is strongly committed to supporting diversity and flexibility in the workplace. Improving the representation of women is necessary in our goal to innovate and to strengthen FEIT’s reputation as a best-in-class centre of research.

School of Electrical, Mechanical and Infrastructure Engineering (EMI) recognises that engineered systems of present and future significance increasingly have connections to all three.

We are the oldest engineering school in Australia – initially founded in 1861 – and have evolved into a vibrant community of internationally recognised researchers passionate about addressing major challenges of today and into the future.

About the role:

We are seeking to appoint a Postdoctoral Research Fellow for a fixed term position initially one year and possible extension for a second year, in the field of multiscale simulation of soft matter.

A PhD in polymer physics, statistical mechanics, mechanical/chemical engineering or an equivalent discipline is essential. Knowledge in statistical mechanics of soft matter, polymer physics, structure and rheology of polymers and multicomponent colloidal systems are highly desirable.

This exciting research project involves collaboration between teams at University of Melbourne, University of Michigan, RMIT University, and Australian Defence Science and Technology (DST) Group.

You will have a unique opportunity to be part of an international team and contribute to two collaborative projects. Computational work will be performed at the University of Melbourne and will involve possible use of the LAMMPS and HOOMD-blue software packages and development of an in-house software (preferably in Python) to perform multiscale simulations from molecular to particle-based or mean-field mesoscopic simulations to theoretical continuum modelling of polymer melts and polymer-bridged colloids.

Experience in C++ programming, Python, the LAMMPS package, or the ability to become quickly proficient in HOOMD-blue or either of these would be an advantage.

The position will be primarily located at the Department of Mechanical Engineering, Melbourne Connect Building of the University of Melbourne. A period of 1 month will also be possibly spent at Prof. Ronald Larson’s Research Group at the University of Michigan, Ann Arbor, MI, USA. In addition, there is an allowance for conference attendance/professional development.

About You:

Naturally you will be capable of demonstrating your prior record of achievement in the following:

• A PhD in Applied Physics, Applied Mathematics, Mechanical Engineering, Chemical Engineering or relevant discipline.
• Demonstrated knowledge of Statistical Mechanics of Soft Matter
• Demonstrated experience in implementing numerical algorithms and developing in-house codes
• Demonstrated experience in using LAMMPS, HOOMD-blue or other related simulation software packages
• A strong track record of published research work in high impact journals in the field of soft matter 
• Demonstrated strong verbal and written communication skills

Additionally, it would be desirable (but not necessary) if you if you also had experience in relation to any of the following:

• Demonstrated research experience in computational simulation of polymer fluids or colloids
• Demonstrated experience of conducting collaborative research 
• Demonstrated experience on successful delivery of project(s) for local/international governments or industry according to scheduled deliverables

You will be supported to pursue achievement in all four pillars of an academic career:

• Research
• Teaching and Learning
• Engagement
• Service and Leadership

What we offer you

We offer flexibility, whatever that may mean for you. Many of our benefit programs and onsite amenities are aimed at supporting you - including generous leave, childcare subsidies, discounted parking, medical and health care. We offer extensive opportunities for personal and professional development, and we’ll support you in doing what you love.

We seek to increase the diversity of our workforce and the representation of all members of our community that have been traditionally under-represented.

If you’re curious, motivated and ready to undertake a meaningful and rewarding role we’re ready to meet you.

How to Apply

Apply online, complete the application and upload your Cover Letter - addressing all selection criteria; and your Resume.

PLEASE NOTE: You must be currently located within Australia and able to commence immediately or as soon as your notice period has been served.

You will be an Australian Citizen; Permanent Resident or holder of an appropriate visa.

While we review your application, get to know us by visiting http://www.eng.unimelb.edu.au/about/join-mse/why-join-mse

Position Description

 0052447.pdf

Applications close: 18 May 2021 11:55 PM AUS Eastern Standard Time