5-Year Rutherford Fellowship for Early-Career Math Physics

5-Year Rutherford Fellowship for Early-Career Math Physics

Full-Time 30000 - 40000 £ / year (est.) No working from home possible
Physics World

At a Glance

  • Tasks: Apply for a prestigious 5-year fellowship in Mathematical Physics and develop your research proposal.
  • Company: Join the innovative Mathematical Physics Group at Heriot-Watt University.
  • Benefits: Receive external funding, mentorship, and support for your academic career.
  • Other info: Diverse candidates from underrepresented groups are especially welcome.
  • Why this job: Kickstart your research career with a leading team and make impactful contributions.
  • Qualifications: Early-career researchers without an academic position are encouraged to apply.

The predicted salary is between 30000 - 40000 £ per year.

The Mathematical Physics Group of Heriot-Watt University invites expressions of interest for the upcoming round of STFC Ernest Rutherford Fellowships. Members of the group working in relevant areas include Murad Alim, Richard Davison, Lotte Hollands, Anatoly Konechny, Christian Saemann, Richard Szabo and Matthew Walters. They are affiliated with the Edinburgh Mathematical Physics Group and the Maxwell Institute for Mathematical Sciences, and play leading roles in the Centre for Doctoral Training in Algebra, Geometry and Quantum Fields.

Ernest Rutherford Fellowships provide 5 years of external funding and are intended for early career researchers who do not have an academic position. STFC operate a quota system and the University can only submit one application. An internal selection process will take place to determine which candidate will be put forward to a University-wide competition.

Interested candidates should contact and arrange for one of the group members listed above to mentor and support their application. You should then submit an expression of interest (EOI) before 10th July 2026 to R.J.Szabo@hw.ac.uk, with your academic sponsor in cc. EOIs should consist of an outline application (max 2 pages - template available from your mentor), CV (max 2 pages) and publication list (no page limit). Candidates will be notified of the outcome of the selection process by the end of July 2025. The successful candidate will then continue to develop their proposal with their academic mentor and the research development team until the submission deadline of 30th September 2026.

We particularly welcome fellowship applicants from diverse backgrounds and individuals from underrepresented groups.

5-Year Rutherford Fellowship for Early-Career Math Physics employer: Physics World

Heriot-Watt University is an exceptional employer for early-career researchers, offering a supportive and collaborative work environment within the esteemed Mathematical Physics Group. With access to leading experts and a strong focus on mentorship, employees benefit from unique opportunities for professional growth and development, particularly through the prestigious 5-Year Rutherford Fellowship. Located in Edinburgh, a vibrant city known for its rich academic heritage, the university fosters a culture of inclusivity and innovation, making it an ideal place for those seeking meaningful and rewarding careers in mathematical sciences.

Physics World

Contact Details:

Physics World Recruitment Team

StudySmarter Expert Advice🤫

We think this is how you could land 5-Year Rutherford Fellowship for Early-Career Math Physics

Tip Number 1

Network like a pro! Reach out to the group members mentioned in the job description. A quick chat can give you insights and show your genuine interest in their work.

Tip Number 2

Get your expression of interest (EOI) spot on! Make sure it’s concise and highlights your strengths. Use the template provided by your mentor to keep it structured.

Tip Number 3

Don’t forget to showcase your unique perspective! The fellowship values diversity, so let your background and experiences shine through in your application.

Tip Number 4

Apply through our website! It’s the best way to ensure your application gets the attention it deserves. Plus, we’re here to support you every step of the way!

We think you need these skills to ace 5-Year Rutherford Fellowship for Early-Career Math Physics

Research Skills
Mathematical Proficiency
Physics Knowledge
Academic Writing
Collaboration
Mentorship
Proposal Development

Some tips for your application 🫡

Get to Know Your Mentor:Before diving into your application, have a chat with your chosen mentor. They can provide invaluable insights and guidance on what makes a strong expression of interest, so don’t skip this step!

Follow the Template:Make sure to use the outline application template provided by your mentor. Sticking to the format helps us ensure that you cover all the necessary points and keeps your application neat and tidy.

Keep It Concise:Remember, you’ve got a max of 2 pages for your outline application and CV. Be clear and concise in your writing—focus on the most relevant experiences and achievements that showcase your potential as a researcher.

Submit Through Our Website:Once you’ve polished your documents, make sure to submit your expression of interest via email as instructed. We recommend checking our website for any additional tips or updates before you hit send!

How to prepare for a job interview at Physics World

Know Your Research Inside Out

Make sure you have a solid grasp of your research area and how it aligns with the work being done at Heriot-Watt University. Be prepared to discuss your past projects, publications, and how they contribute to the field of Mathematical Physics.

Engage with Your Mentor

Before the interview, have a good chat with your academic mentor. They can provide insights into what the selection committee might be looking for and help you refine your application. Their support can be invaluable in showcasing your strengths.

Tailor Your Expression of Interest

When crafting your EOI, make sure it’s tailored to highlight how your work fits within the Mathematical Physics Group. Use the template provided by your mentor to ensure you cover all necessary points succinctly and effectively.

Show Enthusiasm for Collaboration

Demonstrate your eagerness to collaborate with the group members and contribute to ongoing projects. Highlight any previous teamwork experiences and how you can bring fresh ideas to the table, especially in areas like Algebra, Geometry, and Quantum Fields.