At a Glance
- Tasks: Conduct groundbreaking research on tropical oxidising capacity and atmospheric chemistry.
- Company: Join a leading university committed to diversity and inclusion.
- Benefits: Competitive salary, professional development, and flexible working options.
- Why this job: Make a real impact on climate change and air quality through innovative research.
- Qualifications: PhD in atmospheric science or related field, with research experience in atmospheric chemistry.
- Other info: Collaborate with experts and present findings at national and international conferences.
The predicted salary is between 30600 - 38400 £ per year.
Full time, fixed term contract (ending on 30th November 2027)
Closing date: 23:59 on 2 March 2026
Interview date: 17 March 2026
The oxidising capacity of the tropical atmosphere is highly influential for the greenhouse gas methane and other pollutants, with knock-on implications for wider atmospheric composition, climate change and air quality. However, the oxidising capacity and the processes which influence it remain uncertain. In this role, the researcher will assess how our simulation of atmospheric chemistry and the spatial resolution of our chemistry-climate models influence tropical oxidising capacity.
You will work as part of a team within the NERC DeTOX (Determination of Tropical Oxidising Capacity through model calibration) project. The main role is to set up and run simulations using the UK Earth system model (UKESM1.1), which includes representations of tropospheric and stratospheric chemistry, and to analyse the outputs from these. This will involve running simulations with more detailed atmospheric chemistry with the CRI-Strat2 mechanism and simulations at higher spatial resolution (e.g. N216). This will be original research carried forward to publications in leading peer-reviewed journals, and presented at national and international scientific meetings.
The job holder will interact with project partners, attend project meetings, and contribute to the departmental research environment (e.g. seminars and group meetings).
You will have:
- A PhD in atmospheric science or related field (or be close to finishing your PhD)
- Research experience involving analysing data from UKESM or other models
- A publication track record appropriate to your career stage
- Research experience in atmospheric chemistry, aerosols or air quality
We welcome applications from both external and internal candidates. As part of the University’s ongoing commitment to professional development, this role can be considered on a seconded basis for existing staff members. Internal candidates should discuss this with their line manager prior to applying.
The University is committed to having a diverse and inclusive workforce, supports the gender equality Athena SWAN Charter and the Race Equality Charter, and champions LGBT+ equality. We are a Disability Confident Employer (Level 2). Applications for job-share, part-time and flexible working arrangements are welcomed and will be considered in line with business needs.
£36,636 to £46,049 per annum
Post-doctoral Research Scientist: Determination of Tropical Oxidising Capacity (DeTOX) in Reading employer: University of Reading
Contact Detail:
University of Reading Recruiting Team
StudySmarter Expert Advice 🤫
We think this is how you could land Post-doctoral Research Scientist: Determination of Tropical Oxidising Capacity (DeTOX) in Reading
✨Tip Number 1
Network like a pro! Reach out to your contacts in the atmospheric science field, attend relevant conferences, and engage with researchers on social media. You never know who might have a lead on a job or can put in a good word for you.
✨Tip Number 2
Prepare for those interviews! Research the DeTOX project and be ready to discuss how your skills align with their goals. Practise common interview questions and think about how you can showcase your experience with UKESM and atmospheric chemistry.
✨Tip Number 3
Don’t just apply; follow up! After submitting your application through our website, send a polite email to the contact person expressing your enthusiasm for the role. It shows initiative and keeps you on their radar.
✨Tip Number 4
Showcase your research! If you have publications or presentations, make sure to highlight them during interviews. Discussing your work in atmospheric chemistry and its implications can really set you apart from other candidates.
We think you need these skills to ace Post-doctoral Research Scientist: Determination of Tropical Oxidising Capacity (DeTOX) in Reading
Some tips for your application 🫡
Tailor Your CV: Make sure your CV is tailored to the role of Post-doctoral Research Scientist. Highlight your PhD, relevant research experience, and any publications that showcase your expertise in atmospheric science or related fields.
Craft a Compelling Cover Letter: Your cover letter should tell us why you're the perfect fit for this role. Mention specific projects you've worked on, especially those involving UKESM or atmospheric chemistry, and how they relate to the DeTOX project.
Showcase Your Team Spirit: Since you'll be working as part of a team, it's important to demonstrate your collaborative skills. Share examples of how you've successfully worked with others in research settings, whether in meetings or joint projects.
Apply Through Our Website: We encourage you to apply through our website for a smooth application process. Make sure to double-check all your documents before hitting submit, and don’t hesitate to reach out if you have any questions!
How to prepare for a job interview at University of Reading
✨Know Your Research Inside Out
Make sure you’re well-versed in your own research and how it relates to the tropical oxidising capacity. Be prepared to discuss your PhD work and any relevant publications, as this will show your depth of knowledge and passion for the field.
✨Familiarise Yourself with UKESM
Since you'll be working with the UK Earth system model, brush up on its functionalities and recent developments. Being able to discuss how you would set up and run simulations using UKESM1.1 will demonstrate your technical expertise and readiness for the role.
✨Prepare for Team Dynamics
This role involves collaboration with project partners and contributing to departmental meetings. Think about examples from your past experiences where you successfully worked in a team, and be ready to share how you can contribute to a positive research environment.
✨Ask Insightful Questions
Interviews are a two-way street! Prepare thoughtful questions about the DeTOX project, the team’s goals, or the department's research culture. This shows your genuine interest in the position and helps you assess if it's the right fit for you.