Postdoctoral Research Fellow – Topology Optimization and Computational Mechanics
Institution: Queen's University, Kingston, Ontario, Canada
Department: Mechanical and Materials Engineering
Research Group: Structural and Multidisciplinary Systems Design (SMSD) Laboratory
Website: ilyongkim.ca
Position Type: Full-time, Postdoctoral Research Fellow
Duration: 2 years
Annual Salary: Starting at CAD $60,000, commensurate with qualifications and experience
Start Date: Negotiable
Position Description
The Structural and Multidisciplinary Systems Design (SMSD) Laboratory at Queen's University, Canada, invites applications for a Postdoctoral Research Fellow in topology optimization, structural optimization, and computational mechanics.
The successful candidate will contribute to newly funded research projects involving the development of advanced computational design and optimization methodologies for engineering applications.
The position offers opportunities to develop innovative numerical methods, conduct independent research, collaborate with academic and industrial partners, and publish research findings in leading international journals.
Required Qualifications
- A PhD in Mechanical Engineering, Aerospace Engineering, Civil Engineering, Applied Mechanics, or a closely related field, completed or nearing completion.
- Strong fundamentals in solid mechanics, applied mathematics, and numerical methods.
- Research experience in topology optimization, structural optimization, computational mechanics, or closely related fields.
- Strong understanding of finite element methods (FEM) and numerical implementation.
- Experience in developing computational algorithms using Python, C++, or similar programming languages.
- Demonstrated ability to conduct independent research and solve challenging technical problems.
- Strong written and oral communication skills in English.
Preferred Qualifications
- Experience in advanced topology optimization, computational modeling of composite materials or nonlinear mechanics.
- Knowledge of numerical optimization algorithms and sensitivity analysis.
- Experience developing in-house computational tools or implementing new numerical formulations.
- Strong peer-reviewed publications demonstrating original research contributions.
Responsibilities
- Develop and implement advanced computational methodologies for structural design and optimization.
- Perform finite element analysis, sensitivity analysis, and numerical optimization.
- Investigate innovative computational design methodologies for engineering applications.
- Collaborate with graduate students, faculty members, and industrial research partners.
- Prepare research publications for leading international journals.
For further details about the SMSD lab, please visit ilyongkim.ca
Application Procedure
Interested candidates should email their CV, including a complete publication list, to:
Professor Il Yong Kim
Email: kimiy@queensu.ca
Email Subject: Postdoctoral Application – [Applicant's Name]
Only a CV is required for the initial application. Additional materials and references may be requested from shortlisted candidates.
Application Deadline: 14 days after the posting date.
Queen's University welcomes applications from qualified candidates. The appointment and recruitment process will follow applicable University policies and employment requirements.
