Postdoctoral Research Assistant – Space Instrumentation

RFCSR; Oxford; On-site; GBP 34,000 - 40,000; Full time

Job summary

The University of Oxford invites applications for a Postdoctoral Research Assistant – Space Instrumentation in the Department of Physics. This full-time fixed-term position focuses on developing and testing scientific instruments for space science applications, enabling contributions to planetary and astrophysical missions.

You will collaborate with physicists and engineers on instrument design, integration and performance evaluation, and contribute to hardware and software solutions advancing

Qualifications

• PhD (or near completion) in physics, engineering or closely related discipline.
• Strong academic record with evidence of research potential and interest in space-relevant instrumentation development.
• Hands-on experience in designing, building or testing scientific instruments.
• Proficiency with laboratory and integration environments.
• Familiarity with relevant software and hardware tools.
• Ability to work effectively in interdisciplinary teams and communicate technical outcomes clearly.

Responsibilities

• Develop, test and characterize space instrumentation for planetary and astrophysical missions.
• Participate in instrument design, integration and performance evaluation within a cross-disciplinary team.
• Help advance hardware and software solutions for space exploration and observations.

Education

PhD in physics/engineering or related discipline

Job description

Postdoctoral Research Assistant – Space Instrumentation

University of Oxford
Oxford, United Kingdom

This full-time, fixed-term academic position invites an early-career researcher to join a vibrant space instrumentation research group at the University of Oxford’s Department of Physics. The role centers on cutting‑edge development and testing of scientific instruments designed for space science applications, offering an opportunity to contribute to experiments and technologies that support planetary and astrophysical missions. You will work within a collaborative environment of physicists and engineers involved in instrument design, integration and performance evaluation, helping advance hardware and software solutions that push the boundaries of space exploration and observation. The role is ideal for someone with a keen interest in practical instrumentation challenges and the scientific insights they enable.

Eligibility Criteria

Applicants should hold a PhD (or be close to completion) in physics, engineering or a closely related discipline. A strong academic record with evidence of research potential and interest in space‑relevant instrumentation development is expected.

Required Expertise, Skills

The successful candidate will bring skills relevant to space instrumentation, which may include hands‑on experience in designing, building or testing scientific instruments, proficiency with laboratory and integration environments, and familiarity with relevant software and hardware tools. An ability to work effectively in interdisciplinary teams and communicate technical outcomes clearly is essential.

Salary Details

The role is expected to be offered at a Research Grade commensurate with University of Oxford standards, reflecting the candidate’s experience and qualifications.

Application Deadline

Applications for this position close on Wednesday, 25 February 2026.