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- Tasks: Join an interdisciplinary team to explore cosmic dust collection methods for space missions.
- Company: The University of Kent is a leading institution in astrophysics and planetary science.
- Benefits: Gain hands-on experience with advanced analytical tools and collaborate on exciting space projects.
- Why this job: Be part of groundbreaking research that contributes to future space exploration and scientific discovery.
- Qualifications: A background in physics, planetary science, chemistry, or biosciences is essential.
- Other info: Applications close on 9th June; interviews scheduled for the week of 16th June.
The predicted salary is between 36000 - 60000 £ per year.
The Centre for Astrophysics and Planetary Science at the University of Kent is pleased to announce that we have an STFC funded PDRA position available within the Impact Group. The project is titled 'Exploring the fundamentals of impact capture to maximize future dust collections' and will make use of the Impact Group's two-stage light gas gun facility to explore the most appropriate methods to collect cosmic dust for three mission scenarios relating to space mission/experiment concepts currently in development:
- The collection of dust from the volcanic plumes of Io,
- The collection of dust from icy plumes of Enceladus,
- The opportunistic collection of dust in the Near-Earth environment by space hardware.
The successful candidate will work with an interdisciplinary team led by Dr Penny Wozniakiewicz, which covers physics, planetary science, chemistry and biosciences. They will use a range of analytical instrumentation including optical and electron microscopes, GC-MS, MP-AES and Raman spectroscopy to assess the performance of different available capture media. They will also join our active external collaborations with members of Io and Enceladus dust sampling mission concept teams, providing key underpinning data for these, and future, mission concepts.
The closing date for applications is Monday 9th June, with interviews to be held the week of the 16th June. For further information and details on how to apply please go to: https://jobs.kent.ac.uk/vacancy.aspx?ref=EMP-001-25-R. Alternatively, if you have any questions please don't hesitate to contact Penny Wozniakiewicz at pjw@kent.ac.uk.
STFC funded PDRA position at the University of Kent employer: University of Kent
Contact Detail:
University of Kent Recruiting Team
pjw@kent.ac.uk
StudySmarter Expert Advice 🤫
We think this is how you could land STFC funded PDRA position at the University of Kent
✨Tip Number 1
Familiarise yourself with the specific research areas of the Impact Group, especially the projects related to Io and Enceladus. This will not only help you understand the role better but also allow you to engage in meaningful conversations during interviews.
✨Tip Number 2
Network with current or former members of the Centre for Astrophysics and Planetary Science. They can provide insights into the team dynamics and expectations, which can be invaluable when preparing for your interview.
✨Tip Number 3
Brush up on your knowledge of the analytical instrumentation mentioned in the job description, such as GC-MS and Raman spectroscopy. Being able to discuss these tools confidently will demonstrate your technical competence and enthusiasm for the role.
✨Tip Number 4
Prepare thoughtful questions about the ongoing projects and future mission concepts. This shows your genuine interest in the work being done at the University of Kent and can set you apart from other candidates.
We think you need these skills to ace STFC funded PDRA position at the University of Kent
Some tips for your application 🫡
Understand the Project: Familiarise yourself with the project titled 'Exploring the fundamentals of impact capture to maximize future dust collections'. Understand the significance of the research and how your skills align with the objectives.
Tailor Your CV: Highlight relevant experience in astrophysics, planetary science, or related fields. Include any specific skills with analytical instrumentation mentioned in the job description, such as optical and electron microscopes or GC-MS.
Craft a Strong Cover Letter: Write a compelling cover letter that explains why you are interested in this position and how your background makes you a suitable candidate. Mention your enthusiasm for working with an interdisciplinary team and contributing to space mission concepts.
Follow Application Instructions: Ensure you follow the application instructions provided on the University of Kent's job portal. Submit all required documents before the closing date of 9th June and double-check for any specific requirements.
How to prepare for a job interview at University of Kent
✨Know Your Project
Familiarise yourself with the specifics of the project titled 'Exploring the fundamentals of impact capture'. Understand the objectives and methodologies, especially regarding the two-stage light gas gun facility and the cosmic dust collection scenarios.
✨Highlight Relevant Experience
Be prepared to discuss your previous research or work experience that aligns with the interdisciplinary nature of the role. Emphasise any skills in physics, planetary science, chemistry, or biosciences, as well as your familiarity with analytical instrumentation like optical and electron microscopes.
✨Show Enthusiasm for Collaboration
The position involves working with an interdisciplinary team and external collaborations. Express your enthusiasm for teamwork and provide examples of how you've successfully collaborated in past projects, particularly in scientific settings.
✨Prepare Questions
Have thoughtful questions ready for Dr Penny Wozniakiewicz about the project, the team dynamics, and future mission concepts. This shows your genuine interest in the role and helps you assess if it's the right fit for you.
