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- Tasks: Conduct groundbreaking research in exoplanetary science and collaborate with top experts.
- Company: Join the prestigious Institute of Astronomy at the University of Cambridge.
- Benefits: Competitive salary, family-friendly policies, and opportunities for professional development.
- Why this job: Make a real impact in the exciting field of exoplanet research.
- Qualifications: PhD in Astronomy or related field; expertise in astronomical spectroscopy preferred.
- Other info: Diverse and inclusive environment with excellent career growth opportunities.
The predicted salary is between 33700 - 46000 £ per year.
Fixed-term: The funds for this post are available for 2 years in the first instance. Applications are invited for a postdoctoral position at the Institute of Astronomy (IoA), University of Cambridge to work within the research group of Dr Amy Bonsor, Associate Professor and Royal Society University Research Fellow. The research group has broad interests spanning questions involving the link between planet formation and the composition of exoplanets, with a strong focus on white dwarf planetary systems.
The IoA offers a vibrant research environment for exoplanetary science with groups working in a wide range of areas, including exoplanet detection and characterization, exoplanetary atmospheres and interiors, planet formation and circumstellar environments. The University of Cambridge provides a diverse research community, with many cross-disciplinary interactions, including those linked to the Leverhulme Centre for Life in the Universe.
Applicants are expected to demonstrate strong expertise in astronomical spectroscopy, preferably linked to white dwarfs. Candidates with strong relevant expertise not listed above are encouraged to get in touch and discuss further their relevance to the position with Dr Bonsor.
The successful applicant will pursue independent and collaborative research, develop interactions with the faculty, postdoctoral researchers and research students. They will disseminate research findings via publications and other media, including international workshops and conferences, and are encouraged to participate in teaching and learning, in postgraduate research student supervision and in outreach.
Applicants must have a PhD in Astronomy, Planetary Science or related discipline. Successful candidates will be expected to complete research in a collegial environment, with strong communication and computing skills. A successful candidate with a PhD will be appointed at Grade 7 (Research Associate £37,694 to £46,049 per annum). A candidate who has not been awarded their PhD will initially be appointed at Grade 5 (Research Assistant £34,610 to £35,608 per annum) and, upon award of PhD, promoted to Grade 7.
The purpose of this role is to support and maintain the University’s national and international reputation for excellence in teaching and research. Contribution to excellence in research will be as a member of a research team carrying out research at a similar level to that undertaken by lecturing staff and will provide substantial scope for academic judgement, originality, interpretation and presentation of results.
The University of Cambridge thrives on the diversity of its staff and students. Applications from under-represented groups are particularly welcome. We have an active Equality and Diversity Committee which continually works to further the aims of the Athena SWAN charter. The University has a number of family-friendly policies and initiatives, including a returning-career scheme, childcare costs support, university workplace nurseries, university holiday play-schemes, and a shared parental-leave policy. As part of its commitment to providing a family-friendly environment for researchers, the IoA ensures that should parental leave be needed during the course of employment, there is provision for extension to contract to compensate for the parental leave taken.
Research Assistant/Associate Exoplanetary Science (Fixed Term) in Cambridge employer: University of Cambridge Vet School
Contact Detail:
University of Cambridge Vet School Recruiting Team
StudySmarter Expert Advice 🤫
We think this is how you could land Research Assistant/Associate Exoplanetary Science (Fixed Term) in Cambridge
✨Network Like a Pro
Get out there and connect with people in the field! Attend conferences, workshops, or even local meet-ups related to exoplanetary science. We all know that sometimes it’s not just what you know, but who you know that can help land that dream job.
✨Show Off Your Skills
When you get the chance to chat with potential employers or colleagues, don’t be shy about showcasing your expertise in astronomical spectroscopy. We want to hear about your projects and how they relate to white dwarfs. Make sure to highlight your unique skills!
✨Engage with the Research Community
Join online forums or social media groups focused on exoplanetary science. Engaging in discussions can help you stay updated on the latest research and might even lead to job opportunities. Plus, it’s a great way to meet like-minded folks!
✨Apply Through Our Website
Don’t forget to apply through our website for the Research Assistant/Associate position! We’re excited to see your application and want to make the process as smooth as possible for you. Let’s get you on board at the University of Cambridge!
We think you need these skills to ace Research Assistant/Associate Exoplanetary Science (Fixed Term) in Cambridge
Some tips for your application 🫡
Tailor Your Application: Make sure to customise your CV and cover letter to highlight your expertise in astronomical spectroscopy and any relevant experience with white dwarfs. We want to see how your skills align with the research group's focus!
Show Your Passion: Let your enthusiasm for exoplanetary science shine through! Share your research interests and how they connect with the work of Dr Bonsor's group. We love seeing candidates who are genuinely excited about their field.
Be Clear and Concise: Keep your application straightforward and to the point. Use clear language to describe your qualifications and experiences. We appreciate well-structured applications that make it easy for us to see your strengths.
Apply Through Our Website: Don’t forget to submit your application via our website! It’s the best way to ensure we receive all your materials properly. Plus, it helps us keep track of all applicants efficiently.
How to prepare for a job interview at University of Cambridge Vet School
✨Know Your Stuff
Make sure you brush up on your knowledge of astronomical spectroscopy and white dwarf planetary systems. Familiarise yourself with recent research in exoplanetary science, especially any work by Dr Amy Bonsor. This will show that you're genuinely interested and well-prepared.
✨Show Your Collaborative Spirit
Since the role involves independent and collaborative research, be ready to discuss your past experiences working in teams. Highlight any projects where you contributed to group efforts or mentored others, as this will demonstrate your ability to thrive in a collegial environment.
✨Prepare for Questions on Teaching and Outreach
The position encourages participation in teaching and outreach, so think about how you can contribute. Prepare examples of any teaching experience you have or ideas for engaging with the community. This will show that you’re not just focused on research but also on sharing knowledge.
✨Ask Thoughtful Questions
At the end of the interview, don’t forget to ask insightful questions about the research group’s current projects or future directions. This shows your enthusiasm for the role and helps you gauge if it’s the right fit for you. Plus, it leaves a positive impression!
