Postdoctoral Research Associate in Large-Scale Dynamics for Strongly Interacting Particle Systems

We invite applications for a Postdoctoral Research Associate in Applied Mathematics to work with Professor Maria Bruna at the Mathematical Institute, University of Oxford. This is a full-time, fixed-term position for 24 months, funded by a Royal Society University Research Fellowship. The starting date of the position is flexible, between January 2027 and October 2027.

The successful candidate will contribute to the research programme "Large-scale dynamics for strongly interacting particle systems", investigating how collective behaviour emerges from stochastic systems of interacting particles. The research combines mathematical modelling, asymptotic analysis, probability theory, partial differential equations and computational approaches to derive and study macroscopic descriptions of complex particle systems. Topics include interacting diffusions, exclusion processes on lattices and active matter systems, with applications ranging from transport processes to collective behaviour in biological systems.

The post offers flexibility to develop research directions aligned with the candidate's expertise and the project objectives, within an active, collaborative research environment involving national and international collaborators. Applicants should hold, or be close to completing, a PhD/DPhil in Mathematics or a related discipline, with a strong background in areas such as partial differential equations, probability, stochastic processes, asymptotic analysis or mathematical modelling. Previous experience in every aspect of the project is not required. The successful candidate will undertake original research, contribute to publications and presentations, and participate in wider research-group activities. Where grant conditions and departmental need allow, there may be opportunities for teaching, not exceeding three hours per week for 24 weeks of the year, with additional remuneration.