Postdoctoral Research Assistant in Space Plasma Physics

Department: School of Physical and Chemical Sciences
Salary: Grade 4/5, in the range of £40,223 – £49,785 per annum (Grade 4)
Reference: 136
Location: Mile End
Date posted: 23 October 2023
Closing date: 31 December 2023

Further details and apply

Overview

About the Role

This is an opportunity to be involved in a research team, led by Dr Christopher Chen, to work on a new project supported by an STFC Consolidated Grant. The project involves the use of in situ spacecraft data and supporting theory/simulations to study a range of fundamental plasma processes in near-Earth space and how they combine to shape the environment we see. There is also scope for the postdoctoral researcher to develop their own related research interests and to collaborate with Dr Chen’s broader research team in a diverse range of cutting-edge topics. There will also be substantial career development opportunities and support.

About You

The successful candidate will have a PhD in Space Plasma Physics or a closely related subject, or equivalent research experience. They will have the skills and abilities to conduct high-quality innovative research and to successfully disseminate this to the international community. They will be highly motivated and able to demonstrate initiative, as well as a commitment to research, academic life, and ethical working. Desirable qualities include experience in spacecraft data analysis, plasma theory, and/or numerical simulations.

About the School

The School of Physical and Chemical Sciences includes the Department of Physics and Astronomy which hosts world-class research centres across a range of areas in modern physics: Astronomy, Experimental Particle Physics, Theoretical Physics, and Condensed Matter & Materials Science. It has 53 academic staff, 45 research staff, 85 PhD students, and runs successful undergraduate/postgraduate teaching programmes with ~400 students. It recently underwent a £12M refurbishment to provide state-of-the-art research/teaching facilities. The Space & Astrophysical Plasmas group is part of the Astronomy Unit, which also hosts leading groups in Cosmology and Planetary Physics, and has a long history of high-quality research, taking major roles in many large international projects

Benefits
In return, we offer 30 days’ leave per annum, access to a pension scheme, a season ticket loan scheme and competitive salaries. We also offer enhanced family friendly leave, and an on-site nursery at the Mile End campus. You will also work with a friendly team, with personal development opportunities.

Queen Mary’s commitment to our diverse and inclusive community is embedded in our appointments processes. Reasonable adjustments will be made at each stage of the recruitment process for any candidate with a disability.

The post is based at the Mile End Campus in London. It is full time (35 hours per week), fixed term appointment for 2 years, with an expected start date of February 2024 onwards. The starting salary will be Grade 4/5, in the range of £40,223 – £49,785 per annum (pro-rata), inclusive of London Allowance.

Queen Mary’s commitment to our diverse and inclusive community is embedded in our appointments processes. Reasonable adjustments will be made at each stage of the recruitment process for any candidate with a disability.

Informal enquiries should be addressed to Dr Christopher Chen, [email protected]

As part of your application please provide a research statement detailing previous achievements and future plans (2 pages maximum), plus a separate CV uploaded under the CV section.

The closing date for applications is 31st December 2023.

Interviews are expected to be held shortly thereafter.

Valuing Diversity & Committed to Equality

Further details and apply