Research Associate in Computational Planet Formation in Sheffield

The University of Sheffield is a remarkable place to work. Our people are at the heart of everything we do. Their diverse backgrounds, abilities and beliefs make Sheffield a world-class university.

We offer a fantastic range of benefits including a highly competitive annual leave entitlement, a generous pensions scheme, flexible working opportunities, a commitment to your development and wellbeing, a wide range of retail discounts, and much more.

As a Research Associate in the School of Mathematical & Physical Sciences, you will work with Dr Richard Parker to quantify the effects of heating from short-lived radioisotopes (SLRs) 26-Al and 60-Fe on the formation and evolution of planetary systems, funded by the Royal Society. We will calculate the yields from these SLRs in different astrophysical environments, assuming a variety of different delivery mechanisms. We will use these yields to model the contribution of 26-Al and 60-Fe to the long-term heating of planetesimals and young planetary systems.

You will join a world leading research group on star and planet formation, and will collaborate with external partners outside of the University of Sheffield. You should have a PhD in astrophysics or geophysics and preferably numerical/theoretical/computational experience in one or more of the following fields: planet formation, star formation, fluid dynamics, N-body or hydrodynamical simulations.

• Calculate the yields of short-lived radioisotopes in star-forming regions with different initial conditions.
• Use these yields to quantify the effects of SLR heating on young planetary systems.
• Plan and conduct theoretical/numerical research programmes related to star and planet formation.
• Keep appropriate and accurate records of all work carried out.
• Contribute to papers for publication in leading peer-reviewed scientific journals.
• Attend national/international conferences and meetings to present the results of the research undertaken and disseminate research findings.
• Write supporting documents to contribute to and support the work of the astronomy research group.
• Read academic papers, journals and textbooks to keep abreast of developments.
• Continuously monitor and check results.
• Carry out administrative roles as required; organiser of research group seminars, etc.
• Plan several months in advance to meet deadlines for journal publications and to prepare presentations and papers for collaboration meetings and conferences.
• If given a particular hypothesis to examine, plan for own contribution up to three months ahead.
• As a member of staff, you will be encouraged to make ethical decisions in your role, embedding the University sustainability strategy into your working activities wherever possible.
• Carry out other duties, commensurate with the grade and remit of the post.

Our diverse community of staff and students recognises the unique abilities, backgrounds, and beliefs of all. We foster a culture where everyone feels they belong and is respected. Even if your past experience doesn’t match perfectly with this role’s criteria, your contribution is valuable, and we encourage you to apply.

• A PhD in astrophysics, geophysics or a related discipline (or equivalent experience).
• Effective communication skills, both written and verbal, including the ability to write reports and experience in delivering presentations.
• Ability to disseminate results via scientific journals and at meetings/conferences.
• Ability to work effectively within a research group, while pursuing individual research.
• Ability to work independently and meet deadlines.
• Ability to keep up to date with the research literature associated with the project.
• Experience of developing and maintaining a network of contacts throughout own work area.
• Computational/theoretical research background in star and/or planet formation.
• Experience of writing new code for simulation work and adapting existing/legacy codes.
• Strong analytical skills and experience of statistical techniques.
• A good track record of published research.
• Ability to develop creative approaches to problem solving and to be able to organise resources, plan and progress research activities.

Grade 7, Full-time, Duration 1st February 2026 - 31st May 2026.

For informal enquiries about this job contact Richard Parker, Senior Lecturer in Astrophysics: on r.parker@sheffield.ac.uk.

Next steps in the recruitment process: It is anticipated that the selection process will take place in early March 2026. This will consist of an interview.

We are a Disability Confident Employer. If you have a disability and meet the essential criteria for this job you will be invited to take part in the next stage of the selection process.

We are a research university with a global reputation for excellence. Our ideas and expertise change the world for the better, making a real difference to society.