At a Glance
- Tasks: Join us in advancing observational astronomy and leading innovative research projects.
- Company: Durham University, a top UK institution with a vibrant academic community.
- Benefits: Enjoy a supportive environment, flexible working options, and opportunities for professional growth.
- Other info: Inclusive workplace committed to diversity and supporting all candidates.
- Why this job: Make a real impact in the field of astronomy while shaping the future of education.
- Qualifications: PhD in Physics or related field, with a passion for teaching and research.
We welcome applications from candidates with disabilities, neurodiversity and long-term health conditions, and we are committed to ensuring fair treatment throughout the recruitment process. We will make adjustments to support the recruitment and interview process wherever it is reasonable to do so and, where successful, adjustments will be made to support people within their role.
Working at Durham University: A globally outstanding centre of teaching and research excellence, a warm and friendly place to work, a unique and historic setting – Durham is a university like no other. As one of the UK’s leading universities, Durham is an incredible place to define your career. The University is located within a beautiful historic city, home to a UNESCO World Heritage Site, and surrounded by stunning countryside. Our talented scholars and researchers from around the world are tackling global issues and making a difference to people's lives.
The Department: The Physics Department at Durham is one of the largest in the UK and a vibrant centre for world leading research and education. A World Top 100 department in the 2025 QS subject rankings, our research spans advanced instrumentation, astronomy and astrophysics, condensed matter physics, cosmology, particle physics and quantum physics. It has real world impact, informing developments in energy storage, improved cancer imaging, quantum computing, nuclear fusion, pandemic modelling and faster digital technologies.
The Position: The Department of Physics at Durham University seeks to appoint a talented individual to the role of Assistant or Associate Professor, in the Centre for Extragalactic Astronomy (CEA). We welcome applications from those with research interests in the field of observational astronomy and the exploitation of large survey datasets. Applications are particularly encouraged from candidates with a background in radio or sub-mm interferometry to expand Durham's involvement in the SKAO.
Key responsibilities:
- To pursue research that is high quality in terms of originality, significance and rigour, commensurate with the Department's continuing emphasis on international excellence.
- To develop clear plans for the pursuit of suitable national and international funding opportunities to support research and end-user engagement.
- To play a role in relevant teaching and research supervision, and contribute to ongoing curriculum development.
- Contribute to enhancing the quality of the research environment in the Department, the wider University and beyond through collaborative research activity.
- Demonstrate a willingness to contribute to the administrative work, citizenship and values of the Department.
Durham University is committed to equality, diversity and inclusion. Equality, diversity, and inclusion (EDI) are a key component of the University’s Strategy and a central part of everything we do. We also live by our Purpose and Values and our Staff Code of Conduct. At Durham we actively work towards providing an environment where our staff and students can study, work and live in a community which is supportive and inclusive.
Person Specification: Candidates will have completed their PhD (or be close to completion) and should outline their experience, skills and achievements to date, which demonstrate that they meet the essential criteria.
Research: Candidates must have the capacity for and be progressing towards the independent development of internationally excellent research that produces high-quality outcomes, including some work that is recognised as world-class or that has world-class potential.
Education: Candidates must demonstrate significant contribution to the development and delivery of high-quality teaching with a demonstrable contribution to the design of excellent learning environments & curricula, including curriculum development, that enable students to achieve their potential.
Service, Citizenship and Values: Active engagement in administrative and citizenship requirements and to fostering a respectful environment, including the active contribution to the creation of a welcoming environment in which colleagues feel included and valued.
Assistant or Associate Professor in Observational Astronomy in North East employer: Durham University
Durham University is an exceptional employer, offering a vibrant academic environment that fosters collaboration and innovation. As a Postdoctoral Research Associate in Anthropology, you will benefit from extensive professional development opportunities, a supportive work culture, and the chance to contribute to impactful research that shapes understanding of diverse cultures. Located in a historic city, the university provides a unique setting for both personal and professional growth.
