"Research Associate / Research Fellow in Feedback Control Theory / Mathematical Systems Theory"

Applications are invited for a Postdoctoral Research Associate (PDRA) or a Research Fellow (RF) position to conduct fundamental, model-based, feedback control theory research in passivity and dissipativity theory. Applicants are expected to have strong skills in mathematical systems theory, linear algebra, and functional analysis, including an understanding of Hilbert spaces and function spaces such as L2 and L2e, and manipulation of L2-norms, L2-induced (system) norms, and inner-products on L2. Knowledge of robustness analysis via Integral Quadratic Constraint (IQC) theory, absolute stability theory, multiplier theory, and the classical small-gain theorem would be also beneficial.

The successful applicant will work under the direction of Prof. Alexander Lanzon, Chair in Control Engineering at the University of Manchester, and will deliver the objectives of an EPSRC research grant entitled “Input-restricted robust feedback control of nonlinear dynamical systems”.

The recruited applicant will generalise classical robust analysis results (e.g. the small gain theorem, the passivity theorem, dissipativity theory, IQC theory, and absolute stability criteria) to create new robust feedback stability analysis results suitable when exogenous signals entering the feedback loop are norm-restricted.

We welcome applications from candidates who may not yet have extensive experience in functional analysis but who possess a solid theoretical foundation in mathematical systems theory and a demonstrated capacity to rapidly acquire advanced concepts in functional analysis. Applicants whose background is limited to basic linear algebra or the application of state-space system theory, without rigorous theoretical grounding, are unlikely to be suitable.

The successful applicant will have demonstrable potential for performing leading-edge control theory / mathematical systems theory research at a high international level. The recruited applicant will be expected to publish outstanding research in IEEE Transactions on Automatic Control and Automatica.

What you will get in return:

• Fantastic market leading Pension scheme
• Excellent employee health and wellbeing services including an Employee Assistance Programme
• Exceptional starting annual leave entitlement, plus bank holidays
• Additional paid closure over the Christmas period
• Local and national discounts at a range of major retailers

As an equal opportunities employer we welcome applicants from all sections of the community regardless of age, sex, gender (or gender identity), ethnicity, disability, sexual orientation and transgender status. All appointments are made on merit.

Our University is positive about flexible working – you can find out more here.

Hybrid working arrangements may be considered.