At a Glance
- Tasks: Join a team searching for extraterrestrial intelligence using cutting-edge technology and data analysis.
- Company: The University of Oxford, a leader in scientific research and innovation.
- Benefits: Full-time position with opportunities for career growth and collaboration with top researchers.
- Other info: Fixed term until June 2029 with a dynamic international research team.
- Why this job: Make a real impact in the search for alien life while advancing your scientific career.
- Qualifications: PhD in relevant fields and experience in data-intensive research or radio astronomy.
The predicted salary is between 45000 - 60000 £ per year.
The University of Oxford is seeking a Senior Research Scientist in Technosignature Searches to join Breakthrough Listen, the world's leading scientific programme dedicated to the search for extraterrestrial intelligence. This is an exciting opportunity to contribute to cutting edge research at the intersection of radio astronomy, signal processing, machine learning, and large scale scientific data analysis.
Responsibilities
- The successful candidate will play a key role in the operation and scientific exploitation of Breakthrough Listen observing programmes at the Green Bank Telescope and Parkes Observatory.
- Work closely with an international team of researchers, engineers, and observatory partners to contribute to the analysis of some of the largest and most comprehensive radio technosignature datasets ever collected.
- Deploy and optimise search pipelines, analyse large observational datasets, develop new computational approaches to technosignature detection, and contribute to publications, observing proposals, and collaborative scientific activities.
- Work closely with technical teams supporting scientific computing infrastructure and data systems.
Qualifications
- PhD in astronomy, physics, computer science, electrical engineering, or a closely related discipline.
- Experience in radio astronomy, signal processing, scientific computing, or related data intensive research areas, together with strong programming and analytical skills.
- Experience with machine learning, high performance computing, or observational radio astronomy would be advantageous.
Details
- This is a full time post, fixed term until 30 June 2029.
- The closing date for applications is noon GMT time on Friday, 26 June 2026.
How to Apply
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 before the closing date.
Senior Research Scientist in Oxford employer: Job Search Place Limited
The University of Oxford offers an exceptional work environment for the Senior Research Scientist role, fostering a culture of innovation and collaboration at the forefront of scientific discovery. With access to state-of-the-art facilities and a diverse international team, employees are encouraged to grow their expertise in cutting-edge research areas such as radio astronomy and machine learning. The university's commitment to employee development and its prestigious location in Oxford make it an attractive employer for those seeking meaningful contributions to the search for extraterrestrial intelligence.
StudySmarter Expert Advice🤫
We think this is how you could land Senior Research Scientist in Oxford
✨Get Involved in Research Communities
Dive headfirst into the scientific research world by joining relevant communities and forums. Engage in discussions, share your insights, and even attend conferences or seminars in your field. This not only boosts your visibility but can also lead to potential job opportunities—don't forget to connect with like-minded folks!
✨Show Off Your Research Projects
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✨Utilise Professional Networks
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We think you need these skills to ace Senior Research Scientist in Oxford
Some tips for your application 🫡
Highlight Your Research Experience:When applying for a full-time role in scientific research, make sure to emphasise your research experience prominently in your CV. Share specific projects you’ve worked on, the methodologies you used, and any significant findings. If you’ve published papers or presented at conferences, definitely include that too – it shows you’re on it in the academic world!
Tailor Your Cover Letter to the Research Area:Your cover letter should reflect your passion for the specific area of research at Job Search Place Limited. Mention relevant experiences that align with the organisation’s goals or projects. This shows that you’ve done your homework and are genuinely interested in the position – plus, it helps us see how you’d fit into the team dynamics.
Showcase Your Data Analysis Skills:In scientific research, data analysis skills are a big deal! Make sure to detail any relevant analytical tools or software you’re familiar with, like R, Python, or statistical packages. Employers are keen to know you can handle the data-heavy elements of the role, so add specific examples where you’ve used these skills effectively.
Discuss Your Future Research Goals:In your motivation section, it’s a great idea to talk about your future research goals and how they align with the work being done at Job Search Place Limited. This shows that you’re not just looking for any job, but rather a chance to contribute meaningfully to the field. We love to see applicants who are forward-thinking and enthusiastic about their research journey!
How to prepare for a job interview at Job Search Place Limited
✨Showcase Your Research Skills
In scientific research, it’s crucial to demonstrate your ability to design and conduct experiments. Come armed with examples of past projects where you've developed hypotheses, collected data, and analysed results. Be ready to discuss any specific methodologies or tools you’ve used, like PCR techniques or statistical software.
✨Prepare for Technical Questions
Expect some technical questions specific to your field. Make sure you're up to speed with recent advancements in scientific research related to the role at Job Search Place Limited. Brush up on concepts relevant to their projects and be prepared to discuss how you would approach a specific research problem or challenge they might face.
✨Know Your Publications
If you've authored or co-authored any papers, be prepared to discuss them! Highlighting your contributions to published research can really set you apart. It shows not only your expertise but also your ability to communicate complex ideas clearly, which is key in scientific research roles.
✨Exhibit Your Team Spirit
In full-time roles, collaboration is often at the heart of scientific research. Prepare examples that show how you've successfully worked in teams, dealt with conflicts, or contributed to group projects. We want to know how you can work effectively with the team at Job Search Place Limited to drive research projects forward.
