Research Officer in Gravitational Wave Cosmology

Economics Network; Swansea; Remote; GBP 40,000 - 46,000; Full time

Job summary

Swansea University invites applications for a short-term Postdoctoral Research Associate in the Particle Physics and Cosmology Theory Group, focusing on theoretical cosmology, gravitational theory, and quantum field theory.

The successful candidate will investigate gravity, cosmology, and gravitational-wave connections, collaborating with leading researchers and engaging with major international collaborations such as LISA, NANOGrav, Euclid, SKA.

Job description

Location: Singleton Campus, Swansea

About The University

Swansea University is a research-led university that has been making a difference since 1920. The University community thrives on exploration and discovery and offers the right balance of excellent teaching and research, matched by an enviable quality of life.

Our stunning waterfront campuses and multicultural community make us a desirable workplace for colleagues from around the world. Our reward and benefits, and ways of working enable those who join us to have enriching careers, matched by an excellent work-life balance.

About The Role

The Particle Physics and Cosmology Theory Group at Swansea University invites applications for a short-term Postdoctoral Research Associate position at the interface of theoretical cosmology, gravitational theory, and quantum field theory, with an emphasis on exploring fundamental aspects of gravity and their implications for cosmology.

We seek an enthusiastic and highly motivated researcher with a strong theoretical background in one or more of these areas, and an interest in investigating their connections and potential applications to gravitational-wave physics. The successful candidate will pursue research on fundamental questions in cosmology and gravitational physics, working in close collaboration with Azadeh Maleknejad, Gianmassimo Tasinato, and Ivonne Zavala.

Our group is actively involved in several major international collaborations, including LISA, NANOGrav, Euclid, SKA, and the Einstein Telescope. While the position is primarily theoretical in nature, the successful candidate will have the opportunity, should they wish, to engage with the scientific activities of these collaborations and explore connections between fundamental theory and observational prospects.

Equality, Diversity & Inclusion

The University is committed to supporting and promoting equality and diversity in all its practices and activities. We aim to establish an inclusive environment and welcome diverse applications from the following protected characteristics: age, disability, gender reassignment, marriage and civil partnership, pregnancy and maternity, race (including colour, nationality, ethnic and national origin), religion or belief, sex, sexual orientation.

As an inclusive and welcoming workplace, we value people for their skills regardless of their background. Applications are welcome in Welsh and will not be treated less favourably than those submitted in English.

Welsh Language Skills

The Welsh language level required for this role is Level 1 - A little. The role holder will be able to pronounce Welsh words, answer the phone in Welsh (good morning/afternoon) and use very basic everyday words and phrases (thank you, please etc.). Level 1 can be reached by completing a 1 hour course.

The University is a proud bilingual institution, our Welsh Language Strategy outlines our aspiration to promote the language and enable our staff to engage with the language as an additional workplace skill and as a gateway to new cultural and social opportunities. Applications are welcome in Welsh and will not be treated less favourably than those submitted in English. Welsh speakers have the right to an interview in Welsh. Applicants for a role where Welsh skills are essential are expected to present their application in Welsh and will be interviewed in Welsh, if shortlisted.

Additional Information

Closing Date: 8 November 2026

Interview Date: 13 November 2026

Informal Enquiries: Gianmassimo Tasinato [e-mail]

£39,906 to £46,049 per annum