Research fellow position in the PLATO mission at Warwick University |

The Department of Physics at Warwick University seeks to appoint a full time and permanent Research Fellow in support of ESA’s PLATO M3 Mission funded by the UK Space Agency and the University of Warwick. In addition, the post holder is expected to undertake an exciting programme of Exoplanet (or related) research.

Job Reference: 106599-1122
Application deadline: 9 January 2023
Starting date: –
Where: University of Warwick, Coventry
Duration of the contract: Permanent position linked to funding currently until 30 March 2025, 1.0 FTE
Salary: £32,348 – £42,155 per annum

Job Tasks

To support the development of the ground-based observation programme within the PLATO mission. To work with project members in the successful execution of the project.

The post holder will also be expected to research in areas that PLATO will impact, particularly exoplanets (including their follow-up observations). This research will also support the work of the department and develop and enhance its reputation, both internally and externally.

Specific tasks are listed in the job announcement.

Profile’s requirements

The Person Specification focuses on the knowledge, skills, experience and qualifications required to undertake the role effectively. This is measured by (a) Application Form, (b) Test/Exercise, (c) Interview, (d) Presentation.

Essential criteria:

Hold a PhD or equivalent in a relevant scientific discipline (e.g. physics, mathematics). (a, c)
Proven ability in research and evidence of quality research output in relevant field. (a, c)
Ability to work effectively both independently and as part of a project or research team. (a, c)
Sufficient breadth or depth of specialist knowledge in Exoplanet research methods and techniques to work within an established project or research programme. (a, c, d)
Experience of planning and executing ground-based observations. (a, c, d)
Ability to initiate, plan, implement and deliver programmes of project and research work to defined deadlines. (a, c)
Significant computing programming experience in languages such as PYTHON. (a, c)
Ability or potential to contribute to the development of funding proposals in order to generate external funding to support research projects. (a, c)
Excellent interpersonal and communication skill. (a, c, d)
Experience of working within an international project. (a, c)
An understanding of equal opportunity issues as they may impact on areas of research content. (a, c)

Desirable criteria:

Experience of ground-based observations relevant for exoplanet follow-up. (a, c, d)
Experience of manipulating light curves preferably obtained from space craft. (a, c, d)