Research Assistant/Associate in Protoplanetary Discs (Fixed Term) in Oxford

The Institute of Astronomy (IoA), Cambridge University (West Cambridge site) has a vacancy for a postdoctoral researcher to work on the theme "Protoplanetary Discs". This is a Science & Technology Facilities Council funded position working with Professor Cathie Clarke, the P.I. for the project. The study encompasses theoretical modelling of high spectral and spatial resolution datasets relating to winds from protoplanetary discs.

The successful candidate will also have the opportunity to work with partner teams at the Ludwig Maximilian Universitat (Munich) and Maynooth University, Republic of Ireland, benefitting respectively from expertise in these teams in thermochemical modelling and analysis of spectroscopic datasets using instrumentation on the Very Large Telescope (VLT). Substantial experience in hydrodynamical modelling and/or radiative transfer and disc photochemistry is thus highly desirable for this position.

The successful applicant will pursue independent and collaborative research, develop a high degree of interaction with the faculty, postdoctoral researchers and research students, and actively contribute to the life of the department. They will disseminate their research findings via publications or other appropriate media, such as international workshops and conferences. They will be encouraged to participate in the teaching and learning programmes of the department as well as in the co-supervision of postgraduate research students and outreach events.

Applicants must have a PhD in Astronomy or a related field, or have satisfied the requirements for the PhD, by the time of appointment. Essential criteria include excellent communication and computing skills and a proactive approach to publishing scientific results in peer-reviewed journals.

A successful candidate with a PhD will be appointed at Grade 7 (Research Associate £37,694 to £46,049 per annum). A candidate who has not been awarded their PhD will initially be appointed at Grade 5 (Research Assistant £34,610 to £35,608 per annum) and, upon award of PhD, promoted to Grade 7.

The successful applicant will benefit from working in a research environment with considerable interest in exoplanet and disc research across the IoA and related departments within the University, supported by the interdisciplinary Leverhulme Centre for Life in the Universe. The successful applicant will also benefit from regular meetings within Professor Clarke's groups, where research progress and ideas are shared and discussed.

Postdoctoral researchers at the IoA are part of a large community of early-career researchers and can take advantage of a range of professional development opportunities, as well as participate in public engagement and outreach activities.

Fixed‑term: The funds for this post are available for 3 years in the first instance. The post is expected to commence in October 2026; however, the start date can be discussed and agreed upon during the interview process.

Applications must include a cover letter, Curriculum Vitae, list of publications, a statement of research experience and interests (three pages maximum) and contact information of three referees. Please advise your referees that reference requests must be completed and submitted by: Sunday, 2nd August 2026. The application deadline is 23:59 GMT on Sunday, 2nd August 2026. Applications will be reviewed after the closing date and interviews are provisionally planned for 10th August 2026.

Informal enquiries are welcomed and should be directed to Prof Cathie Clarke (cclarke@ast.cam.ac.uk). For any queries regarding the application process, please contact: HR@ast.cam.ac.uk. The University has a responsibility to ensure that all employees are eligible to live and work in the UK.