Research Fellow in Space Propulsion

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Applications are invited for two Post-Doctoral Research Fellow positions, each for a duration of 1 year. The position is within the Astronautics Group, in the Department of Aeronautics and Astronautics.

The post will work on a collaborative project involving industry and academia, funded substantially by the UK Space Agency. Partners on the project include the University of Michigan (Professor Ben Jorns), Airbus Defence and Space, and UK Start Up Pulsar Fusion and US Start Up Starlight Engines.

The project is focused on the development of Hall thruster space propulsion technology, to improve the UK capability in this key technology. Work will be experimentally focused, designing and testing Hall thrusters of various different powers, in collaboration with partners. The research will be particularly focused on the development of Hall thrusters operating on condensable propellants such as zinc, magnesium and bismuth.

There are two positions associated with the project. One is focused on the design, manufacture and testing of a Hall thruster operating on metal propellants. The second position is focused on the development of diagnostics for evaluating the plume of the Hall thruster.

Benefits of the position include a lot of opportunity for international travel, including the exciting opportunity to test in University of Michigan facilities. The salary of both Research Fellows can be at the highest salary point (dependent upon experience of the candidates). The positions are a very exciting opportunity to be part of a world class consortium working at the forefront of ion thruster technology.

It is desirable that the person has experience in designing and testing ion thruster technology, or a demonstrated aptitude for learning new fields of research. The person should have a PhD in aerospace engineering, experimental beam physics, or other ion beam uses. It is desirable that the person has experience of operating large vacuum chamber facilities, and a strong aptitude towards experimental testing. Additionally, a strong track record of high-quality journal publications is an advantage.

If you have any questions please contact Dr Charlie Ryan, [email protected].

At the University of Southampton, we value diversity and equality.  The University recognises that employees may wish to have working patterns that fit with their caring responsibilities or work-life balance.   Due consideration will also be given to applicants who have had career breaks for reasons including maternity, paternity or adoption leave, disability or illness.  Both the University of Southampton and Chemistry are proud to hold Athena Swan Silver Awards.

 References are requested along with your application. This reference system is automated so please ensure you provide the correct email address and allow time for these to be received, prior to the close date, to assist the department with shortlisting. 

Applications for Research Fellow positions will be considered from candidates who are working towards or nearing completion of a relevant PhD qualification. The title of Research Fellow will be applied upon successful completion of the PhD. Prior to the qualification being awarded the title of Senior Research Assistant will be given.

We are committed to equality, diversity and inclusion and welcome applicants who support our mission of inclusivity.

Apply by midnight on the closing date. For assistance contact Recruitment on +44(0)2380 592750 or [email protected] quoting the job number.