Postdoctoral position in Analysis of Partial Differential Equations

Description of the workplace

The Centre for Mathematical Sciences in Lund consists of 18 research groups covering a wide range of mathematical disciplines – from pure and applied mathematics to numerical analysis and optimization, as well as mathematical statistics and machine learning. The centre offers a lively academic environment where colleagues from many parts of the world come together: doctoral students, postdocs, lecturers, and researchers work here in an open, international, and inspiring atmosphere.

Emphasis is placed on ensuring that everyone has the opportunity to develop both professionally and personally, and to actively contribute to a dynamic and innovative research community.

The position is based in the division for Analysis, Algebra, and Dynamical Systems (LTH). 
The postdoctoral position is connected to the study of partial differential equations (PDEs) in fluid dynamics with focus on pattern formations and their stabilities in thin-film type equations, which is financed by grands awarded from Crafoord foundation and the Royal Physiographic Society of Lund. Currently there are six lecturers and professors at the Centre for Mathematical Sciences working together with their groups on related topics in PDEs in fluid dynamics. 

Subject and project description

Thin liquid films are omnipresent in nature, daily life, and industrial processes.
External forces like temperature disparities destabilize these thin fluids leading to an increased risk of film rupture. Understanding the mechanisms behind pattern formation and film rupture is crucial for maintaining a stable flow. The aim of the project is to gain a profound mathematical insight into instability- and film-rupture phenomena in thin-film equations.

Work duties

The main duties involved in a post-doctoral position is to conduct research. Teaching may also be included, but up to no more than 20% of working hours. The position includes the opportunity for three weeks of training in higher education teaching and learning. The purpose of the position is to develop the independence as a researcher and to create the opportunity of further development. 

Within the research project, the postdoctoral researcher will study pattern formation and their stability in thin-film equations, which includes mathematical modelling, well-posedness analysis, analytical bifurcation, and spectral theory. The study of related subjects and the development of new tools applicable to thin-film type equations is welcomed.

The position enables short research visits within the international network program Instability phenomena in asymptotic models in fluid dynamics to institutes in Germany, and offers the opportunity to participate in subject related, international workshops and conferences. 

Detailed description of the work duties:

• Research in pattern formation in thin-film type equations.
• Teaching in the first, second and third cycles of studies.
• Supervision of degree projects and doctoral students.
• Administration related to the work duties listed above.

Qualification requirements 

Appointment to a post-doctoral position requires that the applicant has a PhD, or an international degree deemed equivalent to a PhD, within the subject of the position. The certificate proving the qualification requirement is met, must be received before the employment decision is made. Priority will be given to candidates who have graduated no more than three years ago before the last day for application. Under special circumstances, the doctoral degree can have been completed earlier.

Additional requirements

• Very good oral and written proficiency in English. 
• Very strong knowledge in PDEs including functional analysis and quasilinear evolution equations.

Assessment criteria 

This is a career development position primarily focused on research. The position is intended as an initial step in a career, and the assessment of the applicants will primarily be based on their research qualifications and potential as researchers. Particular emphasis will be placed on research skills within the subject.

For appointments to a post-doctoral position, the following shall form the assessment criteria:

• A good ability to develop and conduct high quality research.
• Teaching skills. 

Other qualifications

• Experience in applying functional analytical tools to quasilinear, degenerate differential equations.

Consideration will also be given to how the applicant’s experience and skills complement and strengthen ongoing research within the department, and how they stand to contribute to its future development.

We offer

Lund University is a public authority which means that employees get particular benefits, generous annual leave and an advantageous occupational pension scheme. Read more on the University website about being a Lund University employee Work at Lund University.

Further information

This is a full-time, fixed-term employment of two years. The period of employment is determined in accordance with the agreement “Avtal om tidsbegränsad anställning som postdoktor” (“Agreement on fixed-term employment as a post-doctoral fellow”).

How to apply

Applications are to be submitted via the University’s recruitment system. The application should include a CV with a list of publications and a personal letter justifying your interest in the position and how it matches your qualifications. The application should also include a degree certificate or equivalent and any other document to which you would like to draw attention (copies of grade transcripts, details of referees, letters of recommendation, etc.)” 

We welcome your application.