Find a job 
Featured Companies 
Featured Universities 
For Companies At a Glance
- Tasks: Lead the Jodrell Bank Centre for Astrophysics and oversee strategic direction in astronomy.
- Company: Join one of Europe's largest academic astronomy research groups at a UNESCO world heritage site.
- Benefits: Enjoy flexible working options and engage in public outreach with a vibrant community.
- Why this job: Make a significant impact in astrophysics while collaborating with top researchers and facilities.
- Qualifications: Must be a Professor in a relevant field with a strong research vision and teaching experience.
- Other info: Potential for early start to overlap with current director; applications close at midnight on the deadline.
The predicted salary is between 43200 - 72000 £ per year.
The Department of Physics and Astronomy in the School of Natural Sciences is seeking applications for Director of Jodrell Bank Centre for Astrophysics for appointment from January 2026. There is the potential to start earlier to allow a period of overlap with the current director. The director will be responsible for leading the Jodrell Bank Centre for Astrophysics and the Jodrell Bank Observatory.
Jodrell Bank Centre for Astrophysics (JBCA) forms part of the department of Physics and Astronomy and is one of the largest academic astronomy research groups in Europe, studying a very broad range of astrophysical research. Research staff are located in the Alan Turing Building on the main Manchester campus and also at Jodrell Bank, and comprise around 30 academic staff, 50 postdoctoral researchers, and 60 post-graduate students. JBCA operates both the 76-metre Lovell Telescope, and the UK national radio astronomy facility, e-MERLIN/VLBI. JBCA's telescope facilities are located at Jodrell Bank Observatory, which also hosts the Headquarters of the Square Kilometre Array (SKA) organisation. JBCA and SKA staff have close links, with several SKA staff enjoying honorary university appointments. Several large compute facilities are operated by the group both on campus and at the observatory. Jodrell Bank is a UNESCO world heritage site.
The Role
Director of Astronomy and Astrophysics is a three-year post, potentially renewable, in the School of Physics and Astronomy. The incumbent will report to the Head of Department and be responsible for the Jodrell Bank Centre for Astrophysics and the Jodrell Bank Observatory. The role encompasses overall strategic responsibility for astronomy and astrophysics in the University including active engagement in setting the strategic direction of astronomy and astrophysics both nationally and internationally. They will lead a management team for scientific research, engineering development, Jodrell Bank Observatory, and engagement with the Square Kilometre Array. They will also play a significant role in Public Engagement in Astronomy, working with the Director of the Discovery Centre at Jodrell Bank visitor attraction.
Applicants will hold a substantive post as Professor within a relevant discipline or field.
Documents Required
- Please upload as a single file in your application:
- CV
- Research vision, maximum two pages
- Teaching statement, maximum two pages
- Names of three referees
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. Blended working arrangements may be considered.
Please note that we are unable to respond to enquiries, accept CVs or applications from Recruitment Agencies.
Enquiries about the vacancy, shortlisting and interviews:
- Name: Professor Chris Parkes, Head of Department of Physics & Astronomy
- Email: chris.parkes@manchester.ac.uk
- Or
- Name: Professor Chris Hardacre, Head of School of Natural Sciences
- Email: c.hardacre@manchester.ac.uk
General enquiries:
- Email: People.Recruitment@manchester.ac.uk
- Technical support: Jobtrain: 0161 850 2004
This vacancy will close for applications at midnight on the closing date. Please see the link below for the Further Particulars document which contains the person specification criteria.
Professor & Director of Jodrell Bank Centre for Astrophysics employer: The University of Manchester
Contact Detail:
The University of Manchester Recruiting Team
chris.parkes@manchester.ac.uk
StudySmarter Expert Advice 🤫
We think this is how you could land Professor & Director of Jodrell Bank Centre for Astrophysics
✨Tip Number 1
Network with current and former staff at the Jodrell Bank Centre for Astrophysics. Engaging with them can provide you with valuable insights into the role and the centre's culture, which can help you tailor your approach during interviews.
✨Tip Number 2
Familiarise yourself with the latest research and developments in astrophysics, particularly those related to the Square Kilometre Array. Demonstrating your knowledge of current trends and challenges in the field will show your commitment and expertise.
✨Tip Number 3
Prepare to discuss your vision for the future of astronomy and astrophysics at JBCA. Think about how you would lead the team and engage with public outreach, as these are key aspects of the director's role.
✨Tip Number 4
Consider reaching out to the listed contacts for informal discussions about the position. This can help you gain a deeper understanding of the expectations and priorities for the role, making you a more informed candidate.
We think you need these skills to ace Professor & Director of Jodrell Bank Centre for Astrophysics
Some tips for your application 🫡
Understand the Role: Thoroughly read the job description for the Director of Jodrell Bank Centre for Astrophysics. Make sure you understand the responsibilities, required qualifications, and the strategic direction expected from the role.
Craft a Strong Research Vision: Prepare a concise research vision document, ensuring it aligns with the goals of the JBCA. Highlight your past achievements and how they relate to future aspirations in astrophysics, keeping it within the two-page limit.
Develop a Teaching Statement: Write a teaching statement that reflects your philosophy and approach to education in physics and astronomy. Include examples of your teaching methods and how you engage students, adhering to the two-page maximum.
Compile Your Application Documents: Gather all required documents into a single file: your CV, research vision, teaching statement, and names of three referees. Ensure everything is well-organised and professionally presented before uploading.
How to prepare for a job interview at The University of Manchester
✨Showcase Your Leadership Skills
As the Director of the Jodrell Bank Centre for Astrophysics, you'll need to demonstrate strong leadership capabilities. Prepare examples of how you've successfully led teams in research or academic settings, and be ready to discuss your vision for leading the centre.
✨Engage with Strategic Vision
The role requires setting strategic directions for astronomy and astrophysics. Familiarise yourself with current trends and challenges in the field, and be prepared to articulate your ideas on how to advance the JBCA's mission both nationally and internationally.
✨Highlight Public Engagement Experience
Public engagement is a significant part of this role. Think about your past experiences in outreach or education, and be ready to share how you can enhance public interest in astronomy through innovative programmes at the Jodrell Bank Observatory.
✨Prepare Your Research Vision
You will need to submit a research vision as part of your application. Make sure to clearly outline your research goals and how they align with the objectives of the JBCA. Be ready to discuss this vision in detail during the interview.
