Postdoctoral Research Assistant in Computational Mechanics and Multistable Metamaterials

central Oxford

We are seeking a full-time Postdoctoral Research Assistant to join RADlab (www.radlab-oxford.com) at the Department of Engineering Science (central Oxford). The post is funded by UKRI and is fixed-term (1st March 2027 to 31st August 2027).

You will develop mechanical models of metamaterials based on inflatable and multistable structures, investigating how geometry, pressure and interactions between individual units govern their collective mechanical response. The research will combine nonlinear mechanics, numerical simulation and design optimisation to create materials with programmable shape, stiffness and load-bearing capacity, including systems that switch between and retain distinct stable configurations.

You should possess A PhD, or be near completion of a PhD, in Mechanical Engineering, Computational Mechanics, Applied Mathematics or a closely related discipline, with the possibility to underfill at Grade 6 (£28,098 - £33,518 p.a.) if candidate holds a relevant degree/Masters and is working on PhD/DPhil, together with relevant experience

You will be responsible for:

1. Developing computational models of inflatable and multistable structures and their assemblies, accounting for large deformations, material nonlinearity, contact and mechanical instabilities.
2. Investigating how unit geometry, internal pressure and assembly architecture influence deployment, stiffness, strength and transitions between stable configurations.
3. Characterising energy landscapes, snap-through transitions and hysteresis to establish design principles for mechanical metamaterials with controlled switching and shape retention.
4. Using numerical simulation and optimisation to design structures with prescribed mechanical responses, in collaboration with experimental researchers who will fabricate and test the designs and provide measurements for model validation.

You should possess:

1. A PhD, or be near completion of a PhD, in Mechanical Engineering, Computational Mechanics, Applied Mathematics or a closely related discipline.
2. A strong background in solid mechanics, particularly nonlinear deformation, structural stability and the mechanics of soft or slender structures.
3. Experience in finite-element modelling using Abaqus, COMSOL, ANSYS or equivalent software, including nonlinear analysis and contact.
4. Research experience in mechanical metamaterials, multistable systems, inflatable structures, soft robotics or closely related areas.
5. Proficiency in Python or MATLAB for numerical modelling, simulation automation, data analysis and optimisation.
6. A record of peer-reviewed publications appropriate to your career stage, strong communication skills and the ability to work independently and collaboratively to meet research milestones.

Experience in modelling buckling, snap-through and post-buckling behaviour, analysing energy barriers and stability, shell or membrane mechanics, pressure-volume coupling, or inverse design would be advantageous.

Informal enquiries may be addressed to Prof Antonio Elia Forte (email: antonio.forte@eng.ox.ac.uk)

For more information about working at the Department, see www.eng.ox.ac.uk/about/work-with-us/

Only online applications received before midday on 6th November 2026 can be considered. You will be required to upload a covering letter/supporting statement, including a brief statement of research interests (describing how past experience and future plans fit with the advertised position), CV and the details of two referees as part of your online application.

The Department holds an Athena Swan Bronze award, highlighting its commitment to promoting women in Science, Engineering and Technology.

Soft-Robotics, Robotics, Mechanical Metamaterials, Inflatables, Mechanics