• Opportunity in computational modelling of plasma surface modification and liquid phase processes
• Located at between the Darlington and Camperdown Campus, Faculty of Engineering and Faculty of Science
• Full-Time, 5 Years Fixed Term, Academic Level A: Base Salary: $94,629 p.a. - $101,018 p.a. plus annual leave loading and a generous employer’s contribution to superannuation.

About the opportunity 

We are seeking to appoint a Postdoctoral Research Associate to be part of the research group of Professor Marcela Bilek. The position involves working in a multidisciplinary team on a research programme aiming to develop novel surface modifications with biomolecular functionalisation that modulates and controls cell responses at materials interfaces. You will design and perform a variety of computational simulations to accompany and inform the plasma process experimental studies both by enabling deeper understanding of experimentally observed phenomena and by predicting parameter adjustments for optimisation.

The physical phenomena that require investigation will drive the choice of software, and you will be required to make informed, strategic decisions about the approaches and software tools to use for each problem. For example, Multiphysics finite element codes may be used to understand gas pressure, fluid flows and electric field distributions and how they depend on the structure and properties of the materials being modified, and particle in cell (PIC) codes may be used to perform simulations of sheaths around complex shaped structural components and to provide insight into surface charging effects.

About you

The University values courage and creativity; openness and engagement; inclusion and diversity; and respect and integrity. As such, we see the importance of recruiting talent aligned to these values and are looking for a Postdoctoral Research Associate who has:

• PhD or near completion, in computational simulations and modelling of plasma processes.
• Demonstrated evidence of independent research ability and potential in the field of computational simulations of plasma and fluid phase processes.
• Hands on experience with finite element simulation software packages such as COMSOL and other relevant software and algorithms.
• Proficiency with a range of simulation approaches including an understanding of their strengths and limitations in various situations. Ability to plan and optimize simulation strategies with consideration of the impacts of employing particular approximations and boundary condition choices.

About us

The creation of the School of Biomedical Engineering is an important step by the University of Sydney in cementing our position as Australia’s largest and most diverse biomedical engineering program, that is expanding our national and international identity and engaging further with biomedical industries and services that employ our graduates and inspire our research. The School of Biomedical Engineering will undertake cutting-edge research at the crossroads of medicine and engineering, health and innovation. Its focus is on technological therapies and treatments to support a world where people live longer and more active lives. The innovative, collaborative and cross-disciplinary nature of this research is a hallmark of the school’s approach, which integrates a diverse array of perspectives supported by contemporary infrastructure and strong links with industry.

Jointly, the School of Physics at the University of Sydney is the leading Physics department in the country, with outstanding staff and students undertaking world-leading teaching and research. Its research in the field of plasma physics is internationally acclaimed. The School of Physics is committed to creating a diverse workplace by improving equity, access and opportunity. We want to create an environment where individuality is welcomed and celebrated. We are continuously working to identify and remove biases and barriers in an effort to make our workplace open, supportive and safe for everyone.

Since our inception 160 years ago, the University of Sydney has led to improve the world around us. We believe in education for all and that effective leadership makes lives better. These same values are reflected in our approach to diversity and inclusion, and underpin our long-term strategy for growth. We’re Australia's first university and have an outstanding global reputation for academic and research excellence. Across our campuses, we employ over 7600 academic and non-academic staff who support over 60,000 students.

We are undergoing significant transformative change which brings opportunity for innovation, progressive thinking, breaking with convention, challenging the status quo, and improving the world around us.

How to apply

For more information on the position and University, please view the position description available from the job’s listing on the University of Sydney careers website.

All applications must be submitted via the University of Sydney careers website. Visit sydney.edu.au/recruitment and search by the reference number 2343/1119F to apply.

Closing date: 11:30pm, Tuesday 3 December 2019

The University of Sydney is committed to diversity and social inclusion. Applications from people of culturally and linguistically diverse backgrounds; equity target groups including women, people with disabilities, people who identify as LGBTIQ; and people of Aboriginal and Torres Strait Islander descent, are encouraged.

© The University of Sydney

The University reserves the right not to proceed with any appointment.