Simons Postdoctoral Fellowship in Strong Gravity and Black Holes

Queen Mary University of London; Greater London; On-site; GBP 40,000 - 60,000; Full time

Job summary

A leading UK university in London is seeking applications for a Simons Postdoctoral Fellowship in Strong Gravity and Black Holes. The position is set to start in Autumn 2026 for a three-year term. The successful candidate will engage in numerical studies, collaborate with a renowned team, and contribute to innovative research in the field. Comprehensive support for travel and professional development opportunities are included, along with competitive salary and benefits.

Benefits

Competitive salary

Generous pension scheme

30 days' leave

Flexible working arrangements

Personal and professional development opportunities

Qualifications

• Expertise in numerical relativity, gravitational wave modelling, and data analysis.
• Research experience with a track record of high-quality publications.
• Ability to supervise students and collaborate with network members.

Responsibilities

• Conduct numerical studies of non-linearities.
• Collaborate with members of the Simons Collaboration on Black holes and Strong Gravity.
• Develop projects with network collaborators during travel.

Skills

Numerical relativity

Gravitational wave modelling

Data analysis

Mathematical relativity

Written and oral English communication

Education

PhD in Mathematics or Physics

Job description

We invite applications for a Simons Postdoctoral Fellowship position in Strong Gravity and Black Holes in the Geometry, Analysis and Gravitation group in the School of Mathematical Sciences. The appointment is planned to start in Autumn 2026 and last for a three‑year term. The fellows will be provided with substantial support for travel across the nodes of the Simons Collaboration on Black holes and Strong Gravity (SimonsC‑BHSG).

The Postdoctoral Fellowship is intended for work on numerical studies of non‑linearities with SimonsC‑BHSG Co‑PI Katy Clough. The successful applicant should have existing expertise in one or more of numerical relativity, gravitational wave modelling and data analysis, mathematical relativity, well‑posed formulations of alternative theories of gravity, and be motivated to contribute to new developments in these areas. Moreover, they must demonstrate research experience and creativity, breadth and depth of knowledge, high productivity and high‑quality publications, the ability to supervise students and mastery of written and oral English communication.

The successful applicant will have, or be about to obtain, a relevant PhD degree in Mathematics or Physics, or equivalent level of professional qualifications and experience. In addition, although based in London, the successful applicants will be expected to travel to collaborate with other members of the network, and thus, they should indicate the collaborators they would like to visit and the projects they would undertake with members of the network. For further details of the role and selection criteria, please refer to the job specification attached.

At Queen Mary University of London, we believe that a diversity of ideas helps us achieve the previously unthinkable.

Throughout our history, we've fostered social justice and improved lives through academic excellence. And we continue to live and breathe this spirit today, not because it's simply 'the right thing to do' but for what it helps us achieve and the intellectual brilliance it delivers.

We continue to embrace diversity of thought and opinion in everything we do, in the belief that when views collide, disciplines interact, and perspectives intersect, truly original thought takes form.

We offer competitive salaries, access to a generous pension scheme, 30 days' leave per annum (pro‑rata for part‑time/fixed‑term), a season ticket loan scheme and access to a comprehensive range of personal and professional development opportunities. In addition, we offer a range of work‑life balance and family‑friendly, inclusive employment policies, flexible working arrangements, and campus facilities.

Queen Mary's commitment to our diverse and inclusive community is embedded in our appointments processes. Reasonable adjustments will be made at each stage of the recruitment process for any candidate with a disability. We are open to considering applications from candidates wishing to work flexibly.

Closing Date