At a Glance
- Tasks: Lead innovative research in space propulsion technology and translate findings into real-world applications.
- Company: Kingston University, a leader in space research and knowledge exchange.
- Benefits: Competitive salary, collaborative environment, and opportunities for impactful research.
- Other info: Fixed-term role until July 2027, with excellent career growth potential.
- Why this job: Join a dynamic team driving the UK's space strategy and make a real difference.
- Qualifications: PhD in space propulsion or related field, with strong research and funding experience.
The predicted salary is between 50106 - 50106 £ per year.
As a Senior Research Fellow in Launch and Space Propulsion Technology, you will play a key role in strengthening Kingston University’s research translation and knowledge exchange (KE) activity, building on the University’s unique contribution to the UK National Space Strategy. You will bring a substantial research and KE track record in space propulsion technology, including attracting external income and making a significant contribution to the space propulsion technology research and KE field through your activities. This role will focus on translating applied and academic space propulsion technology research into industry‑ready, policy‑relevant, and societally impactful outcomes.
Working with academic colleagues, industry partners, public sector organisations, and SMEs, you will:
- Accelerate space propulsion technology research translation and adoption
- Develop and deliver new external partnerships and income‑generating activity
- Enhance Kingston University’s national profile as a leading contributor to the UK National Space Strategy specifically with a focus on supporting sovereign launch capabilities
You will be accountable for delivering measurable research and KE translation outcomes, including securing external funding, generating high‑impact outputs, and building strategic partnerships.
Required Qualifications and Experience
- PhD in launch and space propulsion technology or a closely related discipline, or equivalent experience.
- Significant experience in independent research and knowledge exchange, with a proven ability to secure external funding and deliver applied projects.
- Experience in translating technical research into real‑world, commercial, or policy contexts.
- Excellent communication and stakeholder engagement skills, with experience working with industry, government, or SMEs.
- Collaborative, proactive, and impact‑focused, with the ability to lead projects, build partnerships, and deliver measurable outcomes in a dynamic environment.
Environment and Team
This role sits within Academic Services, part of Kingston University’s Knowledge Exchange and Research Institutes (KERIs), which drive the University’s mission to translate research into real‑world impact. The Cyber, Engineering and Digital Technologies KERI brings together over 60 academics alongside industry partners, policymakers, and communities to tackle strategic innovation challenges and deliver meaningful economic, social, and environmental impact. Building on Kingston’s leading contribution to the UK National Space Strategy, the team is at the forefront of launch and space propulsion innovation – driving national priorities in skills, research impact, and economic growth, supported by cutting‑edge facilities and strategic partnerships across the UK space sector. You will join a highly collaborative and interdisciplinary environment that delivers research excellence and drives societal impact at scale.
Remuneration & Tenure
This is a fixed‑term position funded until 31 July 2027 in the first instance, with a starting salary of £50,1060 per annum. Interviews are expected to be held on 20 August 2026. We are looking for the successful candidate to start as soon as possible.
Contact
For informal enquiries, please contact Prof. Jean‑Christophe Nebel, Director of the Cyber, Engineering and Digital Technologies KERI.
Senior Research Fellow - Space Technology in Kingston upon Thames employer: KINGSTON UNIVERSITY
Kingston University is an exceptional employer, offering a dynamic and collaborative work environment that fosters innovation in space technology research. With a strong commitment to knowledge exchange and impactful outcomes, employees benefit from opportunities for professional growth, access to cutting-edge facilities, and the chance to contribute to national priorities in the UK space sector. The university's focus on building strategic partnerships ensures that your work will have real-world relevance and societal impact, making it a rewarding place to advance your career.
StudySmarter Expert Advice🤫
We think this is how you could land Senior Research Fellow - Space Technology in Kingston upon Thames
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We think you need these skills to ace Senior Research Fellow - Space Technology in Kingston upon Thames
Some tips for your application 🫡
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✨Brush Up on Your Technical Knowledge
Aerospace engineering is all about technical precision, so make sure you’re comfortable with key concepts like aerodynamics, propulsion, and materials science. We recommend going through any relevant coursework or projects you’ve worked on – these real-world examples can illustrate your understanding during the interview with KINGSTON UNIVERSITY.
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Make sure to have a portfolio ready that details any significant projects you've worked on, whether it’s a group assignment or a personal endeavour. Be prepared to discuss the challenges you faced, the tools you used, like CAD software, and what you learned from the experience, as this will show your problem-solving skills in action.
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As a full-time candidate, it’s crucial to convey your passion for aerospace engineering and your ability to work in teams. Highlight any group projects or internships you've done, focusing on how you collaborated with others to achieve a goal. Companies like KINGSTON UNIVERSITY love seeing candidates who not only have technical skills but also fit well within their team culture.
