Research Assistant

About the Role

We are seeking to appoint a Research Assistant to work on deep learning-coupled finite element simulation for fracture mechanics problems, funded by UKRI Engineering and Physical Sciences Research Council (EPSRC) with EPFL, Switzerland and the University of Florida as international partners/collaborators. The project involves research into developing novel computational simulation tools utilising machine learning and finite element method for solid mechanics problems in general (fracture simulation, in particular). This is a full-time, one-year fixed-term post.

The successful candidate will work closely with the PI, Dr Sathiskumar Anusuya Ponnusami and his research team and collaborators at EPFL and Florida. The project will offer an environment to work on exciting interdisciplinary research while bridging Artificial Intelligence architectures with Finite Element Method. The successful candidate will contribute to developing new frameworks that combine state-of-the-art deep learning models with finite element simulations, with a focus on solid mechanics and fracture modelling problems. They will also support research administration and contribute to the dissemination of research findings at computational mechanics conferences and in journals.

About You

The post holder will have a Master’s degree in Mechanical or Aerospace Engineering, or a related discipline, together with experience of machine learning and deep learning methods applied to mechanics or engineering problems. A good understanding of the finite element method and its numerical implementation is required, along with good programming skills. Prior experience of working on related research projects is preferred, as is experience of research software development in finite element analysis.

About the School

SEMS is a large, research-intensive School within the Faculty of Science and Engineering, comprising over 110 academic staff and a vibrant community of approximately 2,700 undergraduate and taught postgraduate students, alongside more than 250 PhD researchers. The School is supported by a dedicated team of administrative and technical professionals, creating a strong and collaborative higher education environment.

About Queen Mary

At Queen Mary University of London, we believe that a diversity of ideas helps us achieve the previously unthinkable.

Throughout our history, we’ve fostered social justice and improved lives through academic excellence. And we continue to live and breathe this spirit today, not because it’s simply ‘the right thing to do’ but for what it helps us achieve and the intellectual brilliance it delivers.

We continue to embrace diversity of thought and opinion in everything we do, in the belief that when views collide, disciplines interact, and perspectives intersect, truly original thought takes form.

Benefits

We offer competitive salaries, access to a generous pension scheme, 30 days’ leave per annum (pro-rata for part-time/fixed-term), a season ticket loan scheme and access to a comprehensive range of personal and professional development opportunities. In addition, we offer a range of work life balance and family friendly, inclusive employment policies, flexible working arrangements, and campus facilities.

Queen Mary’s commitment to our diverse and inclusive community is embedded in our appointments processes. Reasonable adjustments will be made at each stage of the recruitment process for any candidate with a disability. We are open to considering applications from candidates wishing to work flexibly.