Research Fellow in Theoretical Molecular Physics/Astrophysics

UCL; London; Hybrid; GBP 38,000 - 42,000; Full time

Job summary

Join a forward-thinking university at the forefront of scientific research! This exciting role involves contributing to a pioneering project that aims to expand the ExoMol database into ultraviolet studies. You'll utilize your expertise in molecular quantum mechanics and programming to make significant contributions to our understanding of exoplanet atmospheres. With a strong emphasis on collaboration and innovation, this position offers a unique opportunity to work alongside world leaders in the field, making impactful discoveries that could shape the future of astrophysics. If you have a passion for research and a desire to push the boundaries of knowledge, this role is perfect for you.

Benefits

27 days annual leave

hybrid and flexible working

pension scheme

season ticket loan

cycle to work scheme

enhanced maternity/paternity/adoption pay

workplace nursery

employee assistance programme

Qualifications

• PhD in relevant fields required; strong background in molecular quantum mechanics essential.
• Desirable knowledge of Python and/or Fortran, with programming skills preferred.

Responsibilities

• Contribute to the ExoMol project focusing on ultraviolet studies of sulphur-containing molecules.
• Utilize electronic structure calculations for high accuracy results.

Skills

molecular quantum mechanics

molecular spectroscopy

programming skills

Python

Fortran

communication skills

Education

PhD in Physics

PhD in Chemistry

PhD in Astronomy

Job description

About us

UCL is one of the world's top universities based in the heart of London. It is a modern, outward-looking institution. UCL's staff and former students have included 32 Nobel prize winners. It is a truly international community: more than one-third of our student body - more than 35,000 strong - come from 150 countries and nearly one-third of staff are from outside the UK.

About the role

The STFC funded project Extending ExoMol into the ultraviolet: Sulphur containing molecules aims to expand the scope of the ExoMol database to studies of the temperature-dependent photoabsorption and photodissociation of molecules such as water, H2S, SO2, SO and HS. This work will be based on the use of high accuracy electronic structure calculations and the use of variational nuclear motion programs to generate final results. The ExoMol teams at UCL are the world leaders in providing spectroscopic data and modelling tools for the characterisation of exoplanets and other atmospheres but so far have largely concentrated on processes at infrared and visible wavelengths. This project aims to spearhead a major expansion to shorter wavelengths.

This position is funded for up to 3 years in the first instance and will start on 1st of July 2025 or soon afterwards.

Candidates will need to upload a CV (including a publication list), a statement of research experience and interests (1-2 pages maximum), and the contact information for two references. A cover letter should be included.

About you

The successful applicant will have a PhD in Physics, Chemistry or Astronomy or a closely related subject. They should have a strong background in molecular quantum mechanics; some knowledge of molecular spectroscopy and good programming skills are desirable. Candidates should also have excellent written and verbal communication skills.

Knowledge of Python and/or Fortran is desirable, as is an interest in working on problems related to astrophysics.

Appointment at Grade 7 is dependent upon having been awarded a PhD; if this is not the case, initial appointment will be a Research Assistant Grade 6B (salary £38,607 - £41,255 per annum, inclusive of London Allowance) with payment at Grade 7 being backdated to the date of final submission of the PhD thesis.

What we offer

At UCL, we offer a competitive benefits package including 27 days annual leave plus six days (bank holidays are in addition), hybrid and flexible working, pension scheme, season ticket loan, cycle to work scheme, enhanced maternity/paternity/adoption pay, workplace nursery, employee assistance programme and much more!

Progression through the salary scale is incremental. Cost of living pay awards are negotiated nationally and are normally effective from 1st August each year.

Our commitment to Equality, Diversity and Inclusion

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 and ethnic minority backgrounds; disabled people; LGBTQI+ people; and women.

The Department has been awarded a Silver Athena Swan Award. Further information on Athena Swan is at: https://www.ucl.ac.uk/equality-diversity-inclusion/equality-areas/equality-charter-marks/athena-swan-ucl

You can read more about our commitment to Equality, Diversity and Inclusion here: https://www.ucl.ac.uk/equality-diversity-inclusion/