Location

BCAM - Basque Center for Applied Mathematics is a world-class interdisciplinary research center located in the Basque city of Bilbao (Spain). Here, advanced statistical methods and numerical algorithms are combined with high-performance computing to solve complex problems in science and engineering. The Modelling and Simulation in Life and Materials Science group (MSLMS) of Prof. Elena Akhmatskaya combines advanced statistical methods and numerical algorithms with parallel computation to investigate complex systems in biology, materials science, and nanotechnology. 

About this position

We are looking for a research technician with excellent programming skills for a short project (3 months, with the possibility of renewal) on metaheuristic optimization methods. We have recently developed a novel methodology for optimizing the distribution of atoms and vacancies in solid-state materials. Our approach is currently programmed in the package Julia and has been tested in the solid-state electrolyte LLZO. The researcher will rewrite/reformat the code, as well as write a manual to share it with the wider community. He/she will also investigate the optimal set of parameters to maximize the algorithm’s performance and work on the implementation of additional features.

Requirements:

• M.Sc. or B.Sc. degree in Mathematics, Statistics, Computer Science, and related disciplines. Skills and track record:

• Good interpersonal skills.

• Demonstrated ability to work independently and as part of a collaborative research team.

• Ability to effectively communicate and present research ideas to researchers and stakeholders with different backgrounds.

• Fluency in spoken and written English.

Scientific Profile:

The preferred candidate will have:

• Solid programming skills in Julia. Candidates without specific knowledge of Julia but excellent skills in structurally similar languages such as Python, MATLAB, C++ or Ruby may be considered.

• Background in optimization methods. Specific knowledge in metaheuristic techniques such as simulated annealing of harmonic search is highly desirable.

• Experience with molecular dynamics codes (GROMACS, LAMMPS, etc.) is desirable.

Application process

The selected candidate must have applied before the application deadline online at the webpage http://www.bcamath.org/en/research/job/ic2022-08-research-technician-on-metaheuristic-optimization-of-solid-state-materials

NOTE: You are required to upload a SCIENTIFIC RESULTS ACHIEVED AND RESEARCH STATEMENT declaration. If you do not have research experience and/or do not intend (to the best of your knowledge) to continue on a research path, please upload a short declaration stating these facts.

For any inquiries regarding the application process, please contact [email protected] and/or Dr. Mauricio Rincón Bonilla, at [email protected]. Please refer to the application form in the link above before sending your inquiries; we will not evaluate your CV if it is not uploaded on the link above.