Research Fellow in Electric Propulsion

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Surrey Space Centre - Electrical
Location:  Guildford
Salary:  £36,024 to £38,205 per annum depending on experience
This is a fixed term contract for up to 6 months, to start in April 2024.
Post Type:  Full Time
Closing Date:  23.59 hours BST on Sunday 07 April 2024
Reference:  014424

The Surrey Space Centre at the University of Surrey is seeking to recruit a full-time researcher in Electric Propulsion.

The investigation of novel electric propulsion concepts is subject of ongoing research within the SSC Spacecraft Electric Propulsion group. The successful candidate will be conducting hands-on laboratory investigations on an innovative electron source and a plasma-based electrothermal thruster for spacecraft applications.

Duration

This is a fixed term contract for up to 6 months, to start in April 2024.

Main Responsibilities/Activities

The successful candidate will work on: design and development of prototypes of novel electric propulsion concepts; design and implementation of experimental setups finalised at the development and characterisation of the plasma propulsion technologies; operation of vacuum facilities and laboratory equipment; writing of technical reports, conference, or journal articles; presentations during project progress meetings.

The post holder must have

We are looking for applicants who hold, or are near completion of, a PhD in a space engineering or plasma physics disciplines.   Consideration may also be given to individuals who do not hold a PhD but have a degree in relevant disciplines and demonstrate the required skills. The candidate should have general knowledge of the current status of research in spacecraft electric propulsion and experience in experimental plasma research.

Relationships and Contacts

The successful candidate will work under the supervision of Dr Andrea Lucca Fabris at the Surrey Space Centre.

For informal enquiries please contact Dr Andrea Lucca Fabris [email protected]

Please submit a CV and covering letter with your application.

Please note, it is University Policy to offer a starting salary equivalent to Level 3.6 (£34,980) to successful applicants who have been awarded, but are yet to receive, their PhD certificate.  Once the original PhD certificate has been submitted to the local HR Department, the salary will be increased to Level 4.1 (£36,024).