Research Associate (Planet Mercury)

University of Leicester School of Business; Leicester; On-site; GBP 35,000 - 45,000; Full time

Job summary

The University of Leicester School of Business offers an exciting Research and Innovation Associate position in planetary science. Candidates will work with the ESA/JAXA BepiColombo mission team, focusing on data analysis from the Mercury Imaging X-ray Spectrometer. This role requires a PhD, expertise in geochemistry, and proficiency in Python, providing an opportunity to contribute to groundbreaking research.

Benefits

Competitive salary

Excellent pension scheme

Generous leave

Opportunities for career development

Supportive environment for wellbeing

Qualifications

• Strong publication record in planetary science.
• Experience in collaborative research environments.
• Independent research and ability to analyze spacecraft data.

Responsibilities

• Analyze data from Mercury's MIXS instrument.
• Collaborate with ESA/JAXA BepiColombo instrument team.
• Develop expertise in planetary geological processes.

Skills

Python

Geochemistry

Spacecraft data analysis

X-ray fluorescence

Education

PhD in planetary science or closely related field

Job description

About The Role

This STFC-funded Research and Innovation Associate (RIA) position offers an exciting opportunity to join the ESA/JAXA BepiColombo instrument team at the University of Leicester. The successful candidate will work with the team to analyze data from Mercury's Mercury Imaging X-ray Spectrometer (MIXS) instrument, which is the UK's only PI instrument, as part of the 'Planet Mercury: Origins, Evolution, and Interactions' consortium. This is the first of four positions funded through STFC Large Grant, with further posts to be advertised in 2026.

The role involves collaboration with Emma Bunce, John Bridges, and Adrian Martindale at Space Park Leicester, providing a unique chance to develop expertise in data analysis from a live space mission and to collaborate within and beyond the consortium.

About You

You will hold a PhD in planetary science or a closely related field, with expertise in geochemistry, spacecraft data analysis, and/or X-ray fluorescence techniques. A strong publication record, evidence of independent research, and experience in collaborative research environments are essential. Proficiency in Python and a solid understanding of planetary geological processes, especially those relevant to Mercury, are key to success in this role.

Additional Information

For informal enquiries, contact Professor Emma Bunce at [e-mail].

Interviews are anticipated to take place from September 2025.

This role can also be considered on a seconded basis for existing staff members; please discuss this with your line manager prior to applying. More information on secondments can be found here.

The University of Leicester has a rich history of 100 years of impact and innovation. Joining us means becoming part of a diverse community committed to equity, diversity, and inclusion, supporting staff, students, and the wider community.

We prioritize staff wellbeing and environmental sustainability, offering a competitive salary, excellent pension scheme, generous leave, and opportunities for career development in a supportive environment.