Post Doctoral Research Assistant in Solar Activity Reconstructions

-; Reading; On-site; GBP 35,000 - 55,000; Full time

Job summary

An exciting opportunity awaits a researcher in solar and heliospheric physics to join a leading research group at a prestigious university. This role focuses on groundbreaking research into space weather and climate, allowing you to work closely with experienced academics while contributing to significant projects. You'll engage in collaborative research, develop innovative models, and prepare publications that will advance our understanding of solar activity. If you're passionate about space science and eager to make a meaningful impact, this position offers a dynamic and supportive environment for your career development.

Qualifications

• PhD in physical sciences or related discipline required.
• Experience in presenting research findings at conferences.

Responsibilities

• Compare models of cosmic ray transport with observations.
• Develop methods to reconstruct solar activity from proxy data.

Skills

Python

Oral Communication

Written Communication

Research Presentation

Education

PhD in Physical Sciences

Undergraduate Degree in Physics or Mathematics

Job description

By reference to the applicable SOC code for this role, sponsorship may be possible under the Skilled Worker Route. Applicants wishing to consider the SWR mu st ensure that they are able to meet the points requirement before applying. There is further information about this on the UK Visas and Immigration Website .

Closing Date: 11:59 on 4 June 2025

Interviews will be held: 16 June 2025

Are you a researcher with expertise in solar and heliospheric physics? We invite applications for a Post-Doctoral Research Assistant to join Prof Mathew Owens's STFC project on long-term reconstructions of solar activity.

This is an opportunity to undertake exciting research into the space weather and climate over the last ten thousand years, working within the Space and Atmospheric Electricity Research Group of the Department of Meteorology at the University of Reading. Our team currently comprises six academic staff members, two PDRAs, and five PhD students, and fosters a collaborative and dynamic research environment. You will work primarily with Prof Mathew Owens while having opportunities to engage with projects across the group.

Key Responsibilities:

• To compare existing models of galactic cosmic ray transport through the heliosphere with available observations, such as ground-based neutron monitor records.
• To develop methods and models to reconstruct solar activity from a variety of indirect proxy data, such as 14C in tree rings and 10Be in ice sheets.
• Prepare technical reports and research publications.

You will have:

• A PhD (or be expected to soon obtain) in physical sciences or a related discipline.
• An undergraduate or master's degree in physics, mathematics, or related discipline.
• Ability to work independently and collaboratively within a research team.
• Knowledge of Python (or similar) programming.
• Experience presenting research findings at conferences or workshops.
• Effective oral and written communication skills.

It is desirable that you have:

• Knowledge of solar and heliospheric physics.
• Knowledge of Bayesian modelling techniques.
• Ability to conceptualise and develop simple models of physical processes
• Demonstrated ability to write and publish research articles.

Why Join Us?

This role provides an exciting opportunity to be at the forefront of space weather and space climate research. As part of a well-established research group, you will work in a collaborative and supportive environment, with access to cutting-edge resources and opportunities for career development.

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.

Contact Name Prof Mathew Owens

Contact Job Title: Professor of Space Physics

Contact Email address: [e-mail]

Alternative Contact Name: Dr Luke

Alternative Contact Job Title: Associate Professor in Space Physics

Alternative Contact Email address: [e-mail]

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.