Research Associate – Air Power – Strand, London, WC2R 2LS in City of Westminster

The Freeman Air and Space Institute (FASI) is an inter-disciplinary initiative based within the School of Security Studies, King’s College London. Dedicated to generating original knowledge and understanding of air and space issues, FASI seeks to inform scholarly, policy and doctrinal debates in a rapidly evolving strategic environment characterised by transformative technological change which is increasing the complexity of the air and space domains. FASI places a priority on identifying, developing and cultivating air and space thinkers in academia and industry, as well as informing and equipping air and space education provision at King’s and beyond. FASI was established in 2020 thanks to funding from the Royal Air Force (RAF) through the Defence Science and Technology Laboratory (DSTL).

The successful candidate will join the growing Freeman Air and Space Institute team during an exciting period in its development. The post holder will be responsible for conducting original research and analysis of current and emerging air power issues. Examples of relevant subject matter include: air power strategy, doctrine and operations; integrated air and missile defence; future combat air power; artificial intelligence and air operations; coercion and deterrence as it relates to the air domain; and the public‐private dimensions of air policy and procurement.

Applicants must hold a PhD or be near submission in order to be considered for this position. Ideally, the PhD should be in a topic relevant to air power, although strong applications from candidates with PhDs on contemporary non‑air topics within the broader field of strategic studies will also be considered. The successful candidate will also be expected to work closely with the wider team to support FASI’s growing portfolio of activities.

Key responsibilities:

• Conduct and publish original research on contemporary/future air and defence policy and security issues, as agreed with the FASI Co‑Directors.
• Support the FASI lead for publications in peer reviewing air power‑related papers.
• Contribute to providing a range of opportunities for education in air and space power, including in the field of postgraduate research and in professional education.
• Contribute to the internal and external visibility of the Institute, including appearing in the media as required.
• Contribute to the management of research into air and space power contributing directly to FASI research outputs, including working with Visiting Fellows as required.
• Engage with a range of key stakeholders in the UK and abroad to maximise synergies within the study and analysis of air power.
• Contribute to the knowledge transfer and capacity building activities of FASI as directed by the Institute’s leadership.
• Support the identification and pursuit of opportunities to secure external funding for FASI from a wide range of potential stakeholders.
• Attend and, as appropriate, present research findings and papers at internal meetings and external professional events and conferences.
• Work as a conscientious and committed member of the team to achieve the aims of the Institute.

The above list of responsibilities may not be exhaustive, and the post holder will be required to undertake such tasks and responsibilities as may reasonably be expected within the scope and grading of the post. Research staff at King’s are entitled to at least 10 days per year (pro‑rata) for professional development. This entitlement, from the Concordat to Support the Career Development of Researchers, applies to Postdocs, Research Assistants, Research and Teaching Technicians, Teaching Fellows and AEP equivalent up to and including grade 7. Visit the Centre for Research Staff Development for more information. This is a full‑time post and the successful candidate will be offered a fixed‑term contract until March 2031.