Research Assistant in Geophysical Granular Flow Simulation

Research Assistant in Geophysical Granular Flow Simulation

Join to apply for the Research Assistant in Geophysical Granular Flow Simulation role at University of Glasgow

Posted 16 December 2025 | Salary Grade 6: £33,951 - £37,694 per annum |

Location:

Glasgow | Job Type: Research and Teaching | Reference: 189773 | Expiry: 13 January 2026 at 23:45

You will contribute to a project on landslide and debris flow modelling and simulation, working with Professor Jin Sun and relevant research collaborators in a wide range of disciplines. This one‑year Research Assistant position is part of a project aimed at advancing the modelling and simulation of landslides and debris flows using state‑of‑the‑art continuum fluid dynamics approaches. Landslides are complex, gravity‑driven flows that exhibit both solid‑like and fluid‑like behaviour, and their accurate prediction is essential for natural‑hazard assessment and risk mitigation.

The project will focus on developing and implementing continuum models that capture the key physical processes governing initiation, mobility, and run‑out of granular and debris‑laden flows. The successful candidate will work with nonlinear partial differential equations, constitutive modelling, and numerical methods to simulate large‑scale mass‑movement events, with the aim of improving our understanding of flow behaviour across different environmental conditions.

The role will involve designing and running numerical simulations, analysing results, and contributing to the development of improved rheological and constitutive models for geophysical mass flows. The Research Assistant will also have the opportunity to collaborate with a multidisciplinary team working on geomechanics, fluid dynamics, and natural‑hazard modelling.

Ideally applicants should hold, or be close to completing, a PhD in fluid dynamics, geophysical or environmental flows, continuum mechanics, computational physics, or a closely related field. A strong background in fluid dynamics is essential, and expertise in data‑driven fluid mechanics or experimental fluid mechanics is especially welcome. Strong skills in numerical simulation, scientific computing, and mathematical modelling are essential. This position offers an excellent opportunity for an early‑career researcher to develop expertise in hazard‑modelling research while contributing to methods that support real‑world risk reduction.

The successful candidate will also be expected to contribute to the formulation and submission of research publications and research proposals as well as help manage and direct this complex and challenging project as opportunities arise.

• Plan and conduct assigned research individually or jointly in accordance with the project deliverables and project/group/School/College research strategy.
• Document research output including analysis and interpretation of all data, maintaining records and databases, drafting technical/progress reports and papers as appropriate.
• Develop and enhance your research profile and reputation and that of The University of Glasgow/School/Research Group, including contributing to publications of international quality in high‑profile/quality refereed journals, enhancing the research impact in terms of economic/societal benefit, and gathering indicators of esteem.
• Contribute to the presentation of work at international and national conferences, at internal and external seminars, colloquia and workshops to develop and enhance our research profile.
• Contribute to the identification of potential funding sources and to assist in the development of proposals to secure funding from internal and external bodies to support future research.
• Collaborate with colleagues and participate in team/group/meetings/seminars/workshops across the research Group/School/College/University and wider community.
• Contribute to the organisation, supervision, mentoring and training of undergraduate and/or postgraduate students and less experienced members of the project team to ensure their effective development.
• Perform administrative tasks related to the activities of the research group and…