Job Description

Applications are invited for a 3-year Postdoctoral Research Associate to be based in DAMTP at the University of Cambridge to work on the project

"Tidal Heating of Subsurface Oceans in Icy Moons"

funded by the Leverhulme Trust. The position will commence on

1 April 2026

or as soon as possible thereafter. The successful applicant will work with Prof. Rich Kerswell on a project to investigate the possibly turbulent response of a rotating subterranean ocean in an icy moon when subject to a variety of tidal forcings. The methodology will be direct numerical simulations of the governing Navier-Stokes equations complemented by theoretical analysis of simplified models.


Duties include developing and conducting individual and collaborative research objectives, proposals, and projects. The role holder will be expected to plan and manage their own research and administration, with guidance if required, and to assist in the preparation of proposals and applications to external bodies. You must be able to communicate material of a technical nature and be able to build internal and external contacts. You may be asked to assist in the supervision of student projects, the development of student research skills, provide instruction, or plan/deliver seminars relating to the research area.


A background (demonstrated by publications) is expected in exploring high Reynolds number fluid flows using numerical methods. Experience using supercomputers and/or studying rapidly rotating fluids would be highly desirable.


The successful candidate will have, or will have just submitted their thesis for, a PhD in Applied Mathematics, Theoretical Geophysics, Planetary Science, or equivalent.


Fixed-term: The funds for this post are available for 3 years in the first instance.



Please indicate the contact details of two academic referees (including their email address) on the online application form and upload a full curriculum vitae and a description of your recent research (not to exceed 2 A4 pages). Please ensure that at least one of your referees is contactable at any time during the selection process and is made aware that they will be contacted by the Mathematics HR Administrator to request that they upload a reference for you to our Web Recruitment System, and please encourage them to do so promptly.


Please address enquiries about the application process to: LE48159@maths.cam.ac.uk


Academic enquiries should be directed to Prof. Rich Kerswell at rrk26@cam.ac.uk


Interviews are provisionally scheduled for the first two weeks of March 2026.


Please quote reference LE48159 on your application and in any correspondence about this vacancy.


The University actively supports equality, diversity and inclusion and encourages applications from all sections of society.


The University has a responsibility to ensure that all employees are eligible to live and work in the UK.



Key information

Department/location

Department of Applied Mathematics and Theoretical Physics

Salary

37,694-39,906

Reference

LE48159

Category

Research

Date published

9 December 2025

Closing date

2 February 2026