Research Assistant/Associate in Astrophysical Fluid Dynamics

Newcastle University is a great place to work, with excellent benefits. We have a generous holiday package; plus the opportunity to buy more, great pension schemes and a number of health and wellbeing initiatives to support you.

The Role

We are seeking to appoint a Research Assistant/Associate, who will work with Professor Paul Bushby and Professor Tamara Rogers on the STFC-funded project “Magnetism in Hot Jupiters”. The successful candidate, who will be based in the School of Mathematics, Statistics and Physics at Newcastle University, will be responsible for constructing, running and analysing simulations of the outer layers of Hot Jupiters. This will require a strong theoretical background in fluid dynamics and/or magnetohydrodynamics, in addition to excellent numerical skills. The post-holder will also play a key role in the dissemination of the results from this project, so excellent verbal and written communication skills are also essential.

The position is offered on a fixed term basis for three years from the start date, or tenable until the project end date, whichever is soonest. The start date will be on or after 1 October 2026. We would be happy to discuss arrangements for flexible and/or blended working. Generous funds are available for travel, training and other support.

Responsibilities

• Develop computational models to simulate magnetohydrodynamics in the outer layers of a typical Hot Jupiter.
• Generate, analyse and interpret simulation data and draw conclusions on the outcomes.
• Co‑ordinate own work with that of others, use problem solving to affect the achievement of research objectives and contribute to the planning of the project.
• Present information on research progress and outcomes to the Project Lead and Co‑Lead.
• Contribute to the production of high‑quality research papers, based on the outcomes of this research project.
• Present research findings at national and/or international conferences.
• Use high performance computing facilities and local computing resources, as appropriate.

The Person

Knowledge, Skills and Experience

• Strong research background in fluid dynamics and/or magnetohydrodynamics.
• Excellent programming and numerical skills (in addition to core IT skills).
• Proven ability to analyse data and write‑up results.
• At least one peer‑reviewed publication in a relevant research field.
• Experience of working collaboratively with colleagues.
• Excellent verbal communication skills, with the ability to present complex information effectively to a scientific audience.

Attributes and Behaviour

• Commitment to working positively as a member of a research team.
• Ability to negotiate and prioritise multiple, competing responsibilities and to work to deadlines.
• Commitment to continued professional development.
• Understanding of and commitment to good practice in equality, inclusion and diversity.

Qualifications

• Honours degree in Mathematics or Physics (or a closely related discipline).
• PhD (or, for appointment as a research assistant, be close to obtaining a PhD) in Applied Mathematics or Astrophysics (or a closely related discipline).

Benefits

Generous travel, training and other support funds available. Funding for high‑performance computing facilities and local resources.

Newcastle University is a global University where everyone is treated with dignity and respect. As a University of Sanctuary, we aim to provide a welcoming place of safety for all, offering opportunities to people fleeing violence and persecution. We are committed to being a fully inclusive university which actively recruits, supports and retains colleagues from all sectors of society. We value diversity as well as celebrate, support and thrive on the contributions of all of our employees and the communities they represent. We are proud to be an equal opportunities employer and encourage applications from individuals who can complement our existing teams, we believe that success is built on having teams whose backgrounds and experiences reflect the diversity of our university and student population.

At Newcastle University we hold a Gold Athena Swan award in recognition of our good employment practices for the advancement of gender equality. We also hold a Race Equality Charter Bronze award in recognition of our work towards tackling race inequality in higher education REC. We are a Disability Confident employer and will offer an interview to disabled applicants who meet the essential criteria for the role as part of the offer and interview scheme. In addition, we are a member of the Euraxess initiative supporting researchers in Europe.