At a Glance
- Tasks: Join a team exploring lunar radio astronomy and contribute to innovative research projects.
- Company: Oxford's Department of Physics, part of a globally recognised research environment.
- Benefits: Gain valuable experience in cutting-edge research and collaboration opportunities.
- Other info: Full-time, fixed term for 12 months with excellent career development prospects.
- Why this job: Make a real impact in the exciting field of radio astronomy and technosignatures.
- Qualifications: Relevant undergraduate degree and research experience in physics, astronomy, or related fields.
The predicted salary is between 30000 - 40000 £ per year.
We are seeking a Research Assistant to join the Breakthrough Listen research group and contribute to innovative projects focused on lunar radio astronomy, phased-array telescope systems, and widefield sky surveys for technosignatures and transient radio phenomena. The role will involve scientific modelling, data analysis, and research support activities associated with the Lunar Farside Technosignature and Transient Telescope (LFT3) programme and related Earth-based survey systems.
The successful candidate will contribute to collaborative research projects, publications, and conference presentations within an internationally recognised research environment. You will have a relevant undergraduate degree and research experience in a field such as physics, astronomy, engineering, computer science, or a related discipline, together with strong analytical and communication skills and experience of scientific or technical data analysis.
This is an excellent opportunity for an early-career researcher to contribute to cutting-edge radio astronomy and SETI research within a collaborative international team. This is a full-time post, fixed term for 12 months.
The closing date for applications is noon GMT time on Friday, 10 July 2026. You will be required to upload a CV and supporting statement as part of your online job application. The supporting statement must explain how you meet each of the selection criteria for the post using examples of your skills and experience. You should arrange for your 2 referees to send your reference to Leanne O'Donnell at leanne.odonnell@physics.ox.ac.uk before the closing date.
Research Assistant – LFT3 in Oxford employer: Corehr
At the Department of Physics, Oxford, we pride ourselves on fostering a dynamic and inclusive work culture that encourages innovation and collaboration. As a Research Assistant in the Breakthrough Listen research group, you will have access to exceptional resources and mentorship opportunities, allowing for significant professional growth while contributing to groundbreaking research in radio astronomy. Our commitment to supporting early-career researchers ensures that you will be part of a vibrant academic community dedicated to advancing knowledge and making meaningful contributions to science.
StudySmarter Expert Advice🤫
We think this is how you could land Research Assistant – LFT3 in Oxford
✨Tip Number 1
Network like a pro! Reach out to current or former employees in the Breakthrough Listen research group. A friendly chat can give us insider info and might just help us stand out when we apply.
✨Tip Number 2
Show off our skills! When we get to the interview stage, be ready to discuss specific projects we've worked on. Highlighting our experience in scientific modelling or data analysis will really impress them.
✨Tip Number 3
Prepare for those tricky questions! Research common interview questions for research assistant roles and practice our answers. This way, we’ll feel more confident and ready to shine during the interview.
✨Tip Number 4
Don’t forget to follow up! After the interview, send a quick thank-you email to express our appreciation. It’s a nice touch that keeps us fresh in their minds as they make their decision.
We think you need these skills to ace Research Assistant – LFT3 in Oxford
Some tips for your application 🫡
Tailor Your CV:Make sure your CV is tailored to the Research Assistant role. Highlight relevant experience in physics, astronomy, or engineering, and don’t forget to showcase your analytical skills. We want to see how your background fits with our innovative projects!
Craft a Compelling Supporting Statement:Your supporting statement is your chance to shine! Clearly explain how you meet each selection criterion with specific examples from your experience. We’re looking for clarity and relevance, so make it easy for us to see why you’re a great fit.
Showcase Your Collaborative Spirit:Since this role involves working within an international team, highlight any previous collaborative projects you've been part of. We love seeing how you’ve contributed to team success, so share those experiences with us!
Submit Through Our Website:Don’t forget to apply through our website! It’s the easiest way for us to receive your application. Make sure all your documents are uploaded before the deadline, and double-check everything for accuracy. We can’t wait to hear from you!
How to prepare for a job interview at Corehr
✨Know Your Research
Make sure you’re well-versed in the specifics of the Breakthrough Listen research group and their projects. Familiarise yourself with lunar radio astronomy and technosignatures, as this will show your genuine interest and understanding of the role.
✨Showcase Your Skills
Prepare to discuss your analytical and communication skills in detail. Use examples from your past experiences that highlight your ability to analyse scientific data or contribute to collaborative projects, as these are key aspects of the job.
✨Tailor Your Supporting Statement
When writing your supporting statement, directly address each selection criterion mentioned in the job description. Use specific examples to demonstrate how your background in physics, astronomy, or engineering aligns with the requirements of the role.
✨Prepare for Technical Questions
Expect technical questions related to data analysis and scientific modelling. Brush up on relevant software or methodologies you’ve used in the past, and be ready to explain your thought process during problem-solving scenarios.
