Research Assistant in Kirigami Mechanics

The Role

Applications are invited for a Research Assistant in Kirigami Mechanics with a particular emphasis on FEA and reduced order analytical modelling. They will contribute to the EPSRC project Mechanics and Design of Kirigami-Based Energy Dissipating Devices led by Dr Martin Walker. In particular the focus will be on the mechanics of metallic kirigami.

The successful application will be expected to work independently to develop Abaqus of metallic kirigami and develop reduced-order analytical models to understand and describe observed behaviour. They will also be expected to contribute to writing research papers.

Responsibilities

• To understand and convey information which needs careful explanation to the team or group of people through presentations, discussions and meetings which contribute to the production of research reports and publications.
• To write up results of research work, present information on research progress and outcomes to bodies supervising research in a clear and accurate manner.
• To analyse or undertake basic research by deciding how best to apply existing methodology according to overall context and objectives.
• To deal with problems that may affect the achievement of research objectives and deadlines by discussing with the Principal Investigator or Grant-holder and offering creative or innovative solutions.
• To liaise with research colleagues and make internal and external contacts to develop knowledge and understanding to form relationships for future research collaboration.
• To contribute to the planning of research projects.
• To assist in contributing to support student projects on the use of research methods and equipment.
• To contribute to fostering a collegial and respectful working environment which is inclusive and welcoming and where everyone is treated fairly with dignity and respect.
• To engage in wider citizenship to support the department and wider discipline.
• To engage in continuing professional development by attending relevant training and development courses.

This post is fixed term starting as soon as possible and will end on 18/12/2026.

Both in-person and remote working arrangements are possible. However, the candidate must be resident, and eligible to work, in the UK.

Both full-time (35 hours per week) and part-time working can be accommodated but the contract must end by 18 December 2026.

The post-holder is employed to work on research/a research project which will be led by another colleague. Whilst this means that the post-holder will not be carrying out independent research in his/her own right, the expectation is that they will contribute to the advancement of the project, through the development of their own research ideas/adaptation and development of research protocols.

Successful applicants will, ideally, be in post as soon as possible.