Research Fellow - School of Physics and Astronomy

Salary: Full time starting salary is normally in the range £36,636 to £46,049 with potential progression once in post to £48,822

Contract Type:

Fixed Term Contract

The Astrophysics and Space Research group at the University of Birmingham (UK) invites applications for a 3-year postdoc position in theoretical high-energy astrophysics. This position will focus on the modelling of tidal disruption events and their potential to study supermassive black holes, as part of the ERC Starting Grant project “Unleash-TDEs” led by Clément Bonnerot.

Located at the heart of the beautiful campus of the University of Birmingham, the Astrophysics and Space Research group provides a vibrant and diverse research environment with expertise in areas such as theoretical and observational extragalactic astrophysics and gravitational-wave astronomy (for a full list of group members, see: https://www.sr.bham.ac.uk/whoswho.php).

We are especially looking for candidates with interest and experience in the theoretical study of high-energy astrophysical systems, particularly making use of simulations. The hired postdoc will primarily focus on the modelling of tidal disruption events, but will also be encouraged to gain independence and pursue their own ideas on related topics. The research work will primarily be in collaboration with Clément Bonnerot, and benefit from the support of a team of local and international partners involved in the project.

The position comes with a generous allowance to cover travels to conferences and research visits, and guaranteed access to the university’s high-performance supercomputer BlueBEAR. Additionally, the successful candidate will have the opportunity to supervise students, acquire teaching experience, participate in outreach activities, organize international meetings, and get any support or training needed for their personal and career development.

The application deadline is on 21st December 2025. The successful applicant would nominally start in April 2026, but the date can be negotiated if needed.

Applications should be submitted via the 'Apply' button above. They must include a CV, a full list of publications, and a statement of research interests and plans (2 pages maximum). Please also arrange for three letters of recommendation to be sent by email to Clément Bonnerot (c.a.bonnerot@bham.ac.uk) by the application deadline.

If you require any additional information, do not hesitate to get in touch.

Valuing excellence, sustaining investment

We value diversity and inclusion at the University of Birmingham and welcome applications from all sections of the community and are open to discussions around all forms of flexible working

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