At a Glance
- Tasks: Lead innovative research in space instrumentation and teach the next generation of engineers.
- Company: Join the UK's largest university space research group at UCL's Mullard Space Science Laboratory.
- Benefits: 41 days holiday, competitive salary, and access to a swimming pool.
- Other info: Diverse and inclusive environment with excellent career growth opportunities.
- Why this job: Make a real impact on future space missions and cutting-edge technology development.
- Qualifications: PhD in relevant field and experience in space instrumentation or technology development.
The predicted salary is between 55000 - 65000 € per year.
The Department is split across two sites, incorporating the Mullard Space Science Laboratory (MSSL), which is located on its own campus in the beautiful Surrey Hills, and the UCL Centre for Systems Engineering which is based on UCL’s Gower Street Campus. MSSL is surrounded by woodland 30 miles south of central London and is the UK's largest university space research group with approximately 90 research active staff and students, and a total staff of ~150.
Space science is a discipline that demands highly innovative technologies and MSSL has an international reputation for excellence in this area. UCL was one of the first universities in the world to become involved in making scientific observations in space. Since MSSL was established in 1966, we have participated in 73 satellite missions with the European Space Agency, NASA (USA), Japan, Russia, China and India, and flown over 224 rocket experiments. MSSL has contributed to 14 instruments currently operating on 12 satellites. Two further launches are expected during 2026 (SMILE and PLATO). We have the rare capability of designing, building and testing instruments on site. Our research scientists and development engineers work together to ensure the scientific capability of the instruments we produce.
MSSL’s instrumentation and technology development programme supports research that spans solar system and astrophysical environments. Our researchers study the physical processes behind the activity taking place in the solar atmosphere and the interactions between the Sun, the heliosphere, the Earth, the other planets and minor bodies within in the solar system, as well as planetary surfaces and habitability. Astrophysics research includes, but is not limited to, planet and exoplanet formation, galaxy formation and evolution, high energy astrophysics and cosmology. Our technology programme therefore spans the full breadth of in situ and remote sensing instrument development, including cryogenics. Currently and recently operating space science missions using instrument hardware from MSSL include Cluster, Hinode, Swift, XMM-Newton, GAIA, JUICE, Solar Orbiter, Euclid, PLATO and SMILE. Instruments for the Rosalind Franklin Mars rover mission, Vigil and SOLAR-C are currently in development. MSSL staff led or co-led proposals that resulted in the Cryosat, SMILE and Comet Interceptor missions.
The UCL Centre for Systems Engineering was founded in 1998 to share experiences from effective technology development in the space sector. It reaches across a broad range of other sectors including transport, defence and security, health and construction. All undergraduate and postgraduate teaching currently takes place on UCL’s London campus.
This post is a permanent Lectureship or Associate Professorship in Space Instrumentation Engineering at the Mullard Space Science Laboratory in the Department of Space and Climate Physics.
The successful applicant will pursue a competitive original research programme, complementary to MSSL’s existing research and technology involvements and aligned with MSSL’s strategic goals. They will actively pursue opportunities leading to novel instrument technologies, future space missions and/or space instrument roles aligned with the Department’s strategic science interests. They will also contribute to our space engineering teaching programme.
Applicants with expertise in space instrumentation development (in situ and/or remote sensing), CubeSat engineering, embedded software, or satellite communications are particularly welcomed, but applications are not restricted to those with this type of experience.
About you
Successful candidates will have a PhD or equivalent experience in a relevant field, and undertake impactful high quality research in areas related to space instrumentation and/or technology development, in support of the Department’s strategic priorities. You will lead on research and technology development projects and secure grant or contract funding to support the associated programme, research and/or technical staff and PhD students. You will also communicate research by publishing work of high scientific and technical merit in peer‑reviewed journal articles and take a strategic role in maximising the impact of research work and to pursue leadership positions in the field.
Candidates will also have teaching experience at undergraduate/postgraduate university level, commitment to high quality teaching and to fostering a positive learning environment for students, including in person at UCL’s main campus in Bloomsbury, London.
It is essential that you have the ability to supervise academic work by PhD and MSc students and the ability to pursue a successful research or technology development programme, demonstrating independent ideas and a commitment to science and engineering principles. Expertise in building, testing, calibrating and/or operating instrumentation in space or for relevant ground‑based research is desirable, as is experience of preparing competitive research grants, contracts and/or fellowship proposals (and when successful, of managing funds and reporting to external funders).
What we offer
The salary for Grade 8 and 9 appointments (Lecturer and Associate Professor) can be found in the job description, located at the bottom of this page. As well as the exciting opportunities this role presents we also offer some great benefits, some of which are below:
- 41 Days holiday (including 27 days annual leave, 8 bank holiday and 6 closure days)
- Eligibility to join the Universities Superannuation Scheme (USS)
- Cycle to work scheme and season ticket loan
- On‑site swimming pool (not heated)
- Enhanced maternity, paternity and adoption pay
- Employee assistance programme: Staff Support Service
Our commitment to Equality, Diversity and Inclusion
As London’s Global University, we know diversity fosters creativity and innovation, and we want our community to represent the diversity of the world’s talent. We are committed to equality of opportunity, to being fair and inclusive, and to being a place where we all belong. We therefore particularly encourage applications from candidates who are likely to be underrepresented in UCL’s workforce. These include people from Black, Asian and ethnic minority backgrounds; disabled people; LGBTQI+ people; and for our Grade 9 and 10 roles, women. Our department holds an AthenaSWAN Bronze award, in recognition of our long‑term commitment and 'beacon' status in advancing gender equality. We are in the process of applying for an Institute of Physics Inclusion Award.
Lecturer or Associate Professor in Space Instrument Engineering in Dorking employer: UK Dementia Research Institute
The Mullard Space Science Laboratory (MSSL) offers an exceptional work environment for those passionate about space instrumentation engineering, nestled in the picturesque Surrey Hills. With a strong commitment to research excellence and innovation, employees benefit from a collaborative culture that fosters professional growth through impactful projects and teaching opportunities. MSSL's generous benefits package, including 41 days of holiday and a supportive approach to diversity and inclusion, makes it an attractive employer for individuals seeking meaningful and rewarding careers in space science.
Contact Detail:
UK Dementia Research Institute Recruiting Team
StudySmarter Expert Advice🤫
We think this is how you could land Lecturer or Associate Professor in Space Instrument Engineering in Dorking
✨Tip Number 1
Network like a pro! Reach out to current or former staff at MSSL or UCL. A friendly chat can give you insider info and maybe even a referral. Plus, it shows your genuine interest in the role!
✨Tip Number 2
Prepare for that interview! Research MSSL’s recent projects and think about how your expertise aligns with their goals. Bring your A-game and be ready to discuss how you can contribute to their exciting missions.
✨Tip Number 3
Show off your passion for space instrumentation! During interviews, share your past experiences and how they relate to the role. Let them see your enthusiasm for innovative technologies and research.
✨Tip Number 4
Don’t forget to apply through our website! It’s the best way to ensure your application gets noticed. Plus, we love seeing candidates who take the initiative to engage directly with us.
We think you need these skills to ace Lecturer or Associate Professor in Space Instrument Engineering in Dorking
Some tips for your application 🫡
Tailor Your Application:Make sure to customise your CV and cover letter to highlight your experience in space instrumentation and technology development. We want to see how your skills align with our exciting projects at MSSL!
Show Off Your Research:Don’t hold back on showcasing your research achievements! Include any publications or projects that demonstrate your expertise in space science and instrumentation. This is your chance to shine!
Be Clear and Concise:Keep your application clear and to the point. Use straightforward language and avoid jargon where possible. We appreciate a well-structured application that’s easy to read!
Apply Through Our Website:Remember to submit your application through our official website. It’s the best way to ensure it gets to the right people. Plus, you’ll find all the details you need about the role there!
How to prepare for a job interview at UK Dementia Research Institute
✨Know Your Space Instrumentation
Make sure you brush up on the latest developments in space instrumentation and technology. Familiarise yourself with MSSL's recent missions and projects, like the Rosalind Franklin Mars rover mission. This will show your genuine interest and understanding of the field during the interview.
✨Showcase Your Research Experience
Prepare to discuss your past research projects in detail, especially those related to space instrumentation or technology development. Highlight any successful grant applications or collaborations you've been involved in, as this demonstrates your ability to secure funding and lead impactful research.
✨Engage with Teaching Philosophy
Since teaching is a key part of the role, be ready to share your teaching philosophy and experiences. Think about how you can foster a positive learning environment for students at both undergraduate and postgraduate levels, and be prepared to discuss innovative teaching methods you might employ.
✨Align with Strategic Goals
Understand MSSL’s strategic goals and think about how your research interests align with them. Be ready to propose ideas for future research or technology development that could complement their existing projects, showing that you're not just a fit for the role but also a forward-thinking candidate.
