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- Tasks: Join a team to develop radar tech for monitoring volcanic eruptions and natural hazards.
- Company: Be part of a collaborative project with top universities like UCL and Liverpool.
- Benefits: Enjoy opportunities for travel and hands-on experience in exciting locations like Guatemala.
- Why this job: Contribute to impactful research while working with leading experts in the field.
- Qualifications: Engineering background and experience with radar technology and geophysical monitoring required.
- Other info: This is a fixed-term role for 12 months, starting around July 2025.
The predicted salary is between 36000 - 60000 £ per year.
Applications are invited for a fixed-term full-time Postdoctoral Research Associate position in radar monitoring of natural hazards, beginning around July 2025 (although there is some flexibility in this date, in both directions). The position is funded by NERC grant 'High Resolution Radar Imaging of Pyroclastic Density Currents', in collaboration with University College London, and the University of Liverpool.
The successful applicant will work primarily with the UK PI Dr Richard Brown (Durham) and Co-I Prof Paul Brennan (UCL), Co-I Prof Patrice Carbonneau (Durham), and Co-I Dr Silvio de Angelis, and Prof Jim McElwaine (Woods Hole, USA). The project involves developing and maintaining radar equipment designed to capture quantitative data on pyroclastic density currents during volcanic eruptions.
The successful candidate will have an engineering background and expertise in the development and deployment of radar-based technology for geophysical monitoring, and in the processing and interpreting of data from such equipment. The post will involve extended travel to install, maintain and extract data from equipment in Guatemala. Experience in the field installation of geophysical monitoring equipment is essential.
This post is fixed term for 12 months and the funding is available for this fixed period only. The post-holder is employed to work on research/a research project which will be led by another colleague. Whilst this means that the post-holder will not be carrying out independent research in his/her own right, the expectation is that they will contribute to the advancement of the project, through the development of their own research ideas/adaptation and development of research protocols.
Successful applicants will, ideally, be in post by 31st July 2025.
PDRA in Radar Imaging of Geophysical Flows - Durham employer: Durham University
Contact Detail:
Durham University Recruiting Team
StudySmarter Expert Advice 🤫
We think this is how you could land PDRA in Radar Imaging of Geophysical Flows - Durham
✨Tip Number 1
Network with professionals in the field of radar technology and geophysical monitoring. Attend relevant conferences or workshops where you can meet researchers and industry experts, as personal connections can often lead to job opportunities.
✨Tip Number 2
Familiarise yourself with the specific radar technologies and methodologies used in geophysical monitoring. This knowledge will not only help you during interviews but also demonstrate your genuine interest and expertise in the area.
✨Tip Number 3
Reach out to current or former employees of the project or related institutions. They can provide insights into the work culture and expectations, which can be invaluable when preparing for discussions with the hiring team.
✨Tip Number 4
Prepare to discuss your experience with field installations and data processing in detail. Be ready to share specific examples of past projects where you've successfully deployed similar technologies, as this will highlight your suitability for the role.
We think you need these skills to ace PDRA in Radar Imaging of Geophysical Flows - Durham
Some tips for your application 🫡
Understand the Role: Read the job description thoroughly to grasp the specific requirements and responsibilities of the PDRA position. Pay attention to the skills needed, such as engineering background and experience with radar technology.
Tailor Your CV: Customise your CV to highlight relevant experience in radar-based technology and geophysical monitoring. Include specific projects or roles that demonstrate your expertise in these areas.
Craft a Strong Cover Letter: Write a compelling cover letter that explains why you are a good fit for the position. Mention your engineering background, any relevant field experience, and your enthusiasm for contributing to the project on pyroclastic density currents.
Highlight Collaborative Experience: Since the role involves working with multiple institutions, emphasise any previous collaborative projects you've been part of. Showcase your ability to work in a team and contribute to shared research goals.
How to prepare for a job interview at Durham University
✨Showcase Your Engineering Expertise
Make sure to highlight your engineering background and any relevant experience with radar-based technology. Be prepared to discuss specific projects where you've developed or deployed such equipment, as this will demonstrate your capability for the role.
✨Discuss Field Experience
Since the position involves extended travel for field installations, be ready to share your experiences in similar environments. Talk about challenges you faced and how you overcame them, as this will show your adaptability and problem-solving skills.
✨Emphasise Team Collaboration
This role requires working closely with various researchers. Highlight your ability to collaborate effectively within a team, perhaps by sharing examples of past teamwork experiences that led to successful outcomes.
✨Prepare Questions About the Project
Demonstrate your interest in the project by preparing thoughtful questions about the research goals and methodologies. This shows that you are not only interested in the position but also invested in contributing to the project's success.
