Research Associate in Space Physics

We invite applications for a Research Associate position available within the space, plasma and climate community.

Duties and responsibilities

The work will focus on (a) modelling the magnetospheric and ionospheric conditions that are associated with strong geomagnetically induced currents on the surface of the Earth, and (b) measurements of the solar wind drivers of severe space weather by the Juice magnetometer (J-mag), with the aim of verifying the system performance and calibration of the Vigil magnetometer.

The post holder will be responsible for utilising Imperial’s global magnetospheric simulations based on the Gorgon code, in particular performing simulations and deriving physical insight into the processes that cause geomagnetically induced currents. This will require the use of post-processing and bespoke data visualisation tools. The work will be performed in the context of two consortia funded by NERC and ESA respectively. The post holder will also be responsible for analysis of near-Earth commissioning data from J-Mag, development of software for in flight calibration, and scientific support for the pipeline development with application to the Vigil performance model.

This project would involve a high degree of teamwork and interdisciplinary research.

Essential requirements

You must meet the following criteria:

• PhD (or equivalent) in the field of space physics or a related discipline
• Experience of using spacecraft observations, or computer simulations, or theoretical analysis to study the solar wind/magnetosphere interaction
• Experience in spacecraft data analysis
• Experience of work with magnetometer instruments
• Knowledge of the appropriate areas of space, solar or planetary physics
• Knowledge of scientific programming and other computer-based tools

Further information

For expression of interest please contact Professor Jonathan Eastwood at [email protected]  Should you have any queries about the application process please contact the Space and Atmospheric Physics Group Administration office via [email protected] . Please apply with an application form via the online system. CVs without a completed application form will not be considered.

*Candidates who have not yet been officially awarded their PhD will be appointed as Research Assistant within the salary range £40,694 – £43,888 per annum

Please note that job descriptions cannot be exhaustive, and the post-holder may be required to undertake other duties, which are broadly in line with the above key responsibilities.

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