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Position Details

School of Engineering

Location: University of Birmingham, Edgbaston, Birmingham UK

Full time starting salary is normally in the range £34,980 to £44,263 with potential progression once in post to £46,974

Grade: 7

Full Time, Fixed Term contract up to December 2027

Closing date: 26th September 2024

UK and International travel may be required for this role

Background

The Space Environment and Radio Engineering (SERENE) group at the University of Birmingham is a leading research group in space environment and space weather research. With a multidisciplinary, collaborative and inclusive approach, the group focuses on a wide array of topics such as upper atmosphere modelling - covering empirical, physics-based, and data assimilation techniques - radio propagation, satellite orbit determination, and HF engineering. Additionally, the group explores fundamental physics problems concerning small-scale ionospheric structures and non-linear radiation belt dynamics.

To support a range of exciting new projects and research opportunities, SERENE is looking to welcome an outstanding candidate to work in the field of ionospheric physics/modelling.

This long (3.5 years) post will provide the candidate with the opportunity to fully engage with the research group, with work spanning ionospheric data assimilation modelling, D-region remote sensing, atmosphere-ionosphere coupling, HF radio propagation model development as well as first principles modelling of the coupled ionosphere-thermosphere system. This research opportunity will also allow the successful applicant to further develop their own research ideas and pursue collaborative research.

You will join a group at the forefront of innovation in its field. SERENE’s upper atmosphere models are utilized by over 70 institutions in more than 25 countries around the globe. These models serve a dual purpose: advancing the state of the art in upper atmospheric science research and providing operational support for space weather products and services. Internationally and nationally, the SERENE group is actively engaged in shaping space weather policies and assessing associated risks. This group is committed not just to academic pursuits, but also to practical applications that have real-world impact. Their work informs decision-making processes at various governmental and industrial levels, thereby playing a crucial role in the broader space weather community.

Role Summary

• Contribute to the SERENE research group by supporting its research goals.
• Collaborate on research developing and implementing ionospheric models or measurement techniques.
• Analyse and interpret research findings and results.
• Prepare reports and scientific journal papers.
• Share your work and represent SERENE at international conferences.
• Provide subject area support for ionospheric research conducted within SERENE.
• Assist in the training and support of other early-career members of SERENE.

Main Duties

The responsibilities may include some but not all of the tasks outlined below.

• Apply knowledge in a way that develops new intellectual understanding.
• Contribute to developing new models, techniques, and methods.
• Analyse and interpret data.
• Share research findings through publications, research seminars, etc.
• Guide and mentor students on research-related work, offering support to PhD students.
• Undertake management/administration arising from research.
• Contribute to School research-related activities and administration.
• Support, where appropriate, field trials of an ionospheric monitoring system.
• Address challenges that may affect the achievement of research objectives and deadlines.
• Promote equality and value diversity, acting as a role model and fostering an inclusive working culture.

Person Specification

• First degree in physics, mathematics, or similar, with a higher degree (or near completion) relevant to ionospheric modelling and/or ionospheric measurement techniques, or equivalent qualifications.
• Knowledge of ionospheric or radio propagation modelling is essential.
• Strong analytical capability.
• Ability to communicate complex information clearly.
• Ability to assess resource requirements and use resources effectively.
• Understanding of and ability to contribute to broader management/administration processes.
• Collaborate on the planning and organizing of research programmes.
• Coordinate work with others to ensure synergy and avoid duplication of effort.
Knowledge of the protected characteristics of the Equality Act 2010, and a commitment to ensuring those with protected characteristics are treated equally and fairly in day-to-day activities.

Informal enquiries to Sean Elvidge, email: s.elvidge@bham.ac.uk

We believe there is no such thing as a 'typical' member of University of Birmingham staff and that diversity in its many forms is a strength that underpins the exchange of ideas, innovation and debate at the heart of University life. We are committed to proactively addressing the barriers experienced by some groups in our community and are proud to hold Athena SWAN, Race Equality Charter and Disability Confident accreditations. We have an Equality Diversity and Inclusion Centre that focuses on continuously improving the University as a fair and inclusive place to work where everyone has the opportunity to succeed. We are also committed to sustainability, which is a key part of our strategy . You can find out more about our work to create a fairer university for everyone on our website .