We are seeking a highly motivated postdoctoral researcher to work on a new interdisciplinary project to decipher the flight mechanism of the dandelion fruit. While we all are familiar with dandelion and its parachute-like fruit with amazing flight capacity, little is known about how the fruit can fly with a group of fine string-like structures. A three-laboratory consortium consisting of the Biological Form + Function Lab (Dr Naomi Nakayama), Scottish Microelectronics Centre (Dr Enrico Mastropaolo), and Fluid Dynamics Research Lab (Dr Ignazio Maria Viola), all located at the King’s Buildings campus of the University of Edinburgh, will characterise the flight of the dandelion fruit. The aim is to reveal the underpinning novel engineering mechanism, through structural engineering and fluid dynamics investigations, as well as micro/nano-scale fabrication of biomimetic structures. The successful applicant, who must be enthusiastic and hold a PhD in a relevant subject (or will shortly be awarded a PhD) will be granted a unique opportunity to prepare for an independent research career at the exciting interface of biology and engineering.

We invite applications from innovative and responsible researchers who are: biologist (especially with expertise in biomechanics, plant development, or plant ecology) with interests in biologically inspired engineering, or physical scientist with strong interests in biomimetic and/or biological structures.

This post is fixed term for 3 years.

More information and application here (Postdoctoral Research Associate - Vacancy Ref : 033966, 033967)