The School of Mathematics & Physics at Queen’s University Belfast is seeking a Research fellow in molecular dynamics simulation to work in the group of Dr Gareth Tribello, in collaboration with our experimental colleagues: Dr Graham Cross (Trinity College Dublin) and Dr Robert Carpick (University of Pennsylvania).
The post is funded by the Department for Education as part of a US-Ireland collaborative project entitled – “Mechanics of 2D Material Pleats: Nanomechanical Nucleation, Self-Assembly, and Superlubricity.”
The aim of this project is to understand the two-dimensional material pleats that were discovered by Dr Graham Cross in 2016, which formed when a single or few layers of graphene supported on a smooth substrate such as Si are indented. This folded over structure that forms after indentation then self-assembles into a macroscopically-sized feature because interfacial forces dominate over bulk forces. By studying this phenomenon we can better understand the scientific principles of nanoscale mechanics and hence control, manipulate and ultimately manufacture nanoscale devices.
At Queen’s we will be running molecular dynamics (MD) and metadynamics simulations to understand the atomistic mechanisms for this process. We will also use MD simulations to understand what happens to the graphene sheets during the indentation.
This is a unique opportunity as the successful candidate will work in an international research environment as part of a close collaboration between experiment and theory.
The successful candidate must have and your CV/Cover letter should clearly demonstrate you have:
Please note the above are not an exhaustive list. For further information about the role including essential and desirable criteira please click on the Candidate Information link below.
Fixed term contract posts are available for the stated period in the first instance but in particular circumstances may be renewed or made permanent subject to availability of funding. Queen’s University is committed to promoting equality of opportunity to all. We have created an inclusive culture by establishing various staff networks such as iRise and PRISM which help us to progress equality.
We also subscribe to Equality Charter Marks such as the Diversity Charter Mark NI in addition to Athena Swan. For further information on our commitment to Equality, Diversity and Inclusion, please visit www.qub.ac.uk/diversity; www.qub.ac.uk/qgi and www.qub.ac.uk/sites/StaffGateway/StaffNetworks/
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