Research and Innovation Associate – Planet Mercury: Origins, Evolution and Interactions

RFCSR; Milton Keynes; On-site; 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

Research and Innovation Associate – Planet Mercury: Origins, Evolution and Interactions

Location Milton Keynes, United Kingdom (with potential for flexible or hybrid working arrangements in line with institutional policies)

The Open University is seeking a Research and Innovation Associate to contribute to a cutting-edge research project focused on the planet Mercury, specifically exploring its origins, evolution, and interactions within the solar system. This role is embedded within a dynamic research environment dedicated to planetary science and space exploration.

The successful candidate will play a key role in advancing scientific understanding of Mercury by working with spacecraft data, theoretical models, and interdisciplinary research approaches. The position involves collaboration with leading scientists and participation in ongoing and future planetary missions, potentially including data from missions such as BepiColombo.

Key responsibilities include conducting independent and collaborative research, analyzing planetary datasets, contributing to scientific publications, and presenting findings at international conferences. The role may also involve supporting grant development, engaging with wider research initiatives, and contributing to outreach or knowledge exchange activities.

This position offers an excellent opportunity to work at the forefront of planetary science within a globally recognized institution, contributing to impactful research that enhances understanding of terrestrial planet formation and evolution.

Applicants should hold a PhD (or be close to completion) in planetary science, astronomy, physics, geophysics, or a closely related discipline. Candidates must demonstrate a strong academic background and a commitment to high-quality research.

• Strong knowledge of planetary science, particularly terrestrial planets or Mercury-related research
• Experience in analyzing spacecraft data and/or numerical modeling
• Proficiency in scientific programming (e.g., Python, MATLAB, or similar tools)
• Demonstrated 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 (e.g., MESSENGER or BepiColombo) is desirable

Salary information is not explicitly specified in the provided source.

Application deadline is not explicitly specified in the provided source.