Mercury Origins & Evolution Research Associate

RFCSR; Milton Keynes; Hybrid; GBP 36,000 - 48,000; Full time

Job summary

The Open University is seeking a Research and Innovation Associate to contribute to a cutting‑edge Mercury project, exploring origins, evolution and interactions within the solar system. You will work with spacecraft data, theoretical models and interdisciplinary approaches alongside leading scientists.

Responsibilities include independent and collaborative research, data analysis, publishing results and presenting at conferences.

Qualifications

• PhD (or near completion) in planetary science, astronomy, physics, geophysics, or closely related discipline.
• Strong knowledge of planetary science, especially terrestrial planets or Mercury-related research.
• Experience analyzing spacecraft data and/or numerical modeling.
• Proficiency in scientific programming (Python, MATLAB, or similar).
• Ability to conduct independent research and publish in peer‑reviewed journals.
• Strong analytical and problem‑solving skills.
• Excellent written and verbal communication skills.
• Ability to work collaboratively within an interdisciplinary research team.
• Experience with planetary mission data (MESSENGER or BepiColombo) desirable.

Responsibilities

• Conduct independent and collaborative research on Mercury origins, evolution and interactions.
• Analyze planetary datasets and contribute to scientific publications.
• Present findings at international conferences and meetings.
• Support grant development and engage in outreach activities as appropriate.

Skills

Mercury research

Spacecraft data analysis

Scientific programming

Independent research

Analytical skills

Written communication

Verbal communication

Team collaboration

Planetary mission data

Education

PhD in planetary science

Tools

Python

MATLAB

Job description

The Open University is seeking a Research and Innovation Associate to contribute to a cutting‑edge Mercury project, exploring origins, evolution and interactions within the solar system. You will work with spacecraft data, theoretical models and interdisciplinary approaches alongside leading scientists.

Responsibilities include independent and collaborative research, data analysis, publishing results and presenting at conferences.