University of Oxford Postdoctoral Research Associate Recruitment 2026 | Experimental Materials Engineering Position

About the Organization

The University of Oxford is one of the world's leading universities, renowned for excellence in teaching, research, and innovation. The Department of Engineering Science conducts internationally recognized research across multiple engineering disciplines and collaborates extensively with industry and academic partners worldwide. The department offers researchers access to world-class laboratories, cutting-edge facilities, and interdisciplinary research opportunities.

Recruitment Overview

Post Details

The Department of Engineering Science is recruiting a Postdoctoral Research Associate in Experimental Materials Engineering to join Prof. Emilio Martinez-Paneda's Mechanics of Materials Laboratory.

The successful candidate will conduct research on hydrogen embrittlement of metals, contributing to safer hydrogen energy infrastructure and improving structural integrity in transportation, marine, defence, and construction sectors.

Key responsibilities include:

• Mechanical testing of metallic materials.
• Fracture and fatigue testing.
• Advanced materials characterization using SEM and EBSD.
• Hydrogen charging, permeation, and desorption experiments.
• Participation in collaborative research projects.
• Publishing research papers in leading journals.
• Working with international collaborators and industrial partners.
• Utilizing advanced research facilities, including synchrotron facilities where applicable.

Who Can Apply

Applications are invited from candidates with qualifications in:

• Engineering
• Materials Science
• Mechanical Engineering
• Physics
• Chemistry
• Metallurgy
• Related Engineering or Science disciplines

Why Apply

• Join the University of Oxford, one of the world's leading universities.
• Work on an ERC-funded international research project.
• Access state-of-the-art experimental research facilities.
• Collaborate with globally recognized researchers.
• Opportunity to publish in high-impact scientific journals.
• Possibility of contract extension based on project requirements.
• Excellent academic and research environment.

Eligibility Criteria

Applicants should:

• Hold or be close to completing a PhD in Engineering, Materials Science, Physics, Chemistry, or a related discipline.
• Have experience in at least one of the following:
  • Mechanical testing
  • Environmentally assisted fracture testing
  • Temperature-programmed hydrogen desorption
  • Materials characterization
  • Hydrogen permeation
  • Coupled deformation-diffusion modelling
• Demonstrate strong research and communication skills.

Fellowship Details

• Fellowship Amount: Grade 7 salary of £39,424–£47,779 per annum (inclusive of Oxford University weighting). Candidates yet to complete their PhD may receive a Grade 6 Research Assistant appointment (£35,681–£41,636 per annum) until the PhD is awarded.
• Duration: Initially 1 year, with the possibility of extension.
• Age Limit: Not Specified.
• Test Scores Accepted: No standardized test required.
• Eligibility Criteria: PhD (completed or near completion) in a relevant discipline with appropriate research experience.
• Important Dates:
  • Last Date to Apply: 10 September 2026 (12:00 PM).

Selection Process

Selection will generally include:

• Screening of applications.
• Evaluation of academic qualifications and research experience.
• Interview.
• Document verification.

Only shortlisted candidates will be contacted.

Important Dates

• Application Deadline: 10 September 2026 (12:00 PM)

How to Apply

Interested candidates should submit an online application through the official recruitment portal. Applicants must upload:

• Cover letter/supporting statement including research interests.
• Updated CV.
• Details of two referees.

Applications received after the deadline will not be considered.

Brochure URL

https://eng.ox.ac.uk/jobs/job-detail?vacancyID=187458

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