At a Glance
- Tasks: Join a team developing next-gen space debris detectors and conduct exciting experiments.
- Company: University of Kent, a leader in innovative research and diversity.
- Benefits: 43 days' leave, excellent pension, and corporate healthcare plan.
- Other info: Collaborative environment with a focus on diversity and equality.
- Why this job: Contribute to groundbreaking research that shapes the future of space exploration.
- Qualifications: PhD in relevant field and coding experience in Python or similar.
The predicted salary is between 35000 - 45000 £ per year.
Are you excited by the opportunity to contribute to cutting‑edge research helping protect the future of space exploration? If so, this 36 month fixed term role could be ideal. We are seeking a motivated and collaborative Research Associate to join the ERC‑funded PROSPER project, exploring the risks posed by space debris and helping develop technologies that support sustainable access to space. Working within an interdisciplinary team across physics, chemistry, engineering and computing, you'll play a key role in developing and testing next‑generation debris detectors.
Responsibilities
- Building and developing dust detector prototypes for testing and validation
- Conducting impact experiments using the University’s two‑stage light gas gun facility
- Analysing detector data and developing software to support data processing and interpretation
- Presenting research findings through publications, presentations and collaborative project work
Qualifications
- A PhD (completed or near completion) in physics, engineering, computing or a related discipline, or equivalent research experience
- Experience working in a scientific laboratory or research environment
- Coding experience in Python, Matlab, LabVIEW or similar
- A collaborative and proactive approach, with enthusiasm for interdisciplinary research
Benefits
- 43 days' leave per year (personal leave, bank holidays and additional days allocated for the Christmas period, pro rata for part‑time staff)
- Excellent pension scheme with generous employer contributions
- Corporate employee funded healthcare plan, in partnership with Benenden Health
We particularly welcome applications from black, Asian and minority ethnic candidates as they are underrepresented at this level in this area. The University of Kent values diversity and equality at all levels.
Postdoc Research Associate: Space Debris Detectors employer: Job Search Place Limited
The University of Kent is an exceptional employer, offering a vibrant and inclusive work culture that fosters collaboration and innovation in cutting-edge research. As a Postdoc Research Associate, you will benefit from generous leave entitlements, a robust pension scheme, and a corporate healthcare plan, all while contributing to meaningful projects that advance our understanding of space debris. With a strong commitment to diversity and employee growth, the University provides an inspiring environment for researchers eager to make a significant impact in their field.
StudySmarter Expert Advice🤫
We think this is how you could land Postdoc Research Associate: Space Debris Detectors
✨Tip Number 1
Network like a pro! Reach out to people in your field, attend conferences, and join relevant online forums. You never know who might have the inside scoop on job openings or can put in a good word for you.
✨Tip Number 2
Show off your skills! Create a portfolio or a personal website showcasing your research projects, coding skills, and any publications. This gives potential employers a taste of what you can bring to the table.
✨Tip Number 3
Prepare for interviews by practising common questions and discussing your research in layman's terms. We want to see how well you can communicate complex ideas, especially in an interdisciplinary team!
✨Tip Number 4
Don’t forget to apply through our website! It’s the best way to ensure your application gets seen. Plus, we love seeing candidates who are genuinely interested in joining our team.
We think you need these skills to ace Postdoc Research Associate: Space Debris Detectors
Some tips for your application 🫡
Tailor Your Application:Make sure to customise your CV and cover letter to highlight your relevant experience in physics, engineering, or computing. We want to see how your skills align with the exciting work on space debris detectors!
Show Your Passion:Let your enthusiasm for interdisciplinary research shine through! Share any projects or experiences that demonstrate your commitment to sustainable space exploration and how you can contribute to the PROSPER project.
Highlight Your Technical Skills:Don’t forget to mention your coding experience in Python, Matlab, or LabVIEW. We’re looking for someone who can analyse data and develop software, so make sure we know about your technical prowess!
Apply Through Our Website:We encourage you to submit your application through our website. It’s the best way to ensure your application gets into the right hands and shows us you’re serious about joining our team!
How to prepare for a job interview at Job Search Place Limited
✨Know Your Research
Dive deep into the specifics of the PROSPER project and the technologies involved in space debris detection. Familiarise yourself with recent publications and advancements in the field, as this will show your genuine interest and understanding during the interview.
✨Showcase Your Skills
Be ready to discuss your coding experience in Python, Matlab, or LabVIEW. Prepare examples of past projects where you applied these skills, especially in a collaborative research environment. This will help demonstrate your technical capabilities and teamwork.
✨Prepare for Practical Questions
Expect questions about building and testing prototypes or conducting experiments. Think through your previous experiences and be prepared to explain your approach to problem-solving in a lab setting, particularly with impact experiments.
✨Emphasise Collaboration
Since the role involves working within an interdisciplinary team, highlight your collaborative experiences. Share specific examples of how you've worked effectively with others from different fields, showcasing your proactive approach and enthusiasm for teamwork.
