Research Fellow - AR3307

Start Date: 01 September 2026

Fixed Term for 12 Months

The School of Physics & Astronomy is seeking an ambitious Research Fellow to work on the exploration of brown dwarfs and free-floating planetary-mass objects using optical and infrared telescopes.   

Applications are invited for an active observational researcher in the area of star and planet formation. The fellow will work with Dr. Aleks Scholz and an international team, using data from world-class facilities, such as Gaia, WISE, Keck, Subaru and JWST.   

The School of Physics & Astronomy offers a vibrant and modern work environment. Astrophysics research in St Andrews combines theoretical, numerical and observational research in star formation, protoplanetary discs, extra-solar planets, stellar magnetic activity, gravitational lensing, active galactic nuclei, galaxy dynamics and cosmology. The School hosts members of the cross-disciplinary Center for Exoplanet Science. Astronomers in the School have access to the Las Cumbres Observatory and to local telescopes, including the 37” James Gregory Telescope.   

The successful candidate should have a PhD in astronomy, astrophysics, or a closely related field by the appointment start date, with experience in multi-wavelength observations of young stellar or substellar objects. The position is available for a starting date 1 September 2026 or as soon as possible thereafter, for a period of one year. The position is supported by an UKRI/STFC Small Award and includes funds for computing and travel. 

Informal enquiries can be made to Dr Aleks Scholz, e-mail: as110@st-andrews.ac.uk   

Candidates should send a cover letter, CV, publication list, and a brief statement of research experience and interests, and arrange for two letters of reference to be provided at the time of the interview. 

St Andrews offers more than just a place to work it is a place to belong. We value collegiality, inclusion, and wellbeing, and we are committed to creating a workplace where staff can thrive and perform at their best.  

In addition to the salary on offer for this position, there are a wide range of benefits for staff working at the University of St Andrews. The package for the Research Fellow includes:   

• Financial contribution to relocation (subject to eligibility)   
• Membership of the USS Pension Scheme with a generous employer contribution of 14.5%   
• A hybrid working environment, including partial homeworking where appropriate and a range of family friendly policies, supporting work-life balance   
• Staff discount scheme for local and national goods and services   
• Free staff parking, employee Carshare and Cycle to Work Schemes and subsidised local bus travel   
• Subsidised sports membership, reduced tuition fees on degree programmes for staff, access to training and development opportunities including LinkedIn Learning, access to library facilities, salary sacrifice scheme     
• 34 Days Annual Leave plus 5 Public Holidays.     

At St Andrews, equality, diversity, and inclusion are central to who we are and form a core pillar of our University Strategy. We are committed to creating a fair, inclusive and supportive workplace, reflected in our participation in national diversity charters and awards, including Athena Swan, Carer Positive and the Race Equality Charter.  

We particularly welcome applications from people from Black, Asian, minority ethnic and minority religions backgrounds and from LGBTQ+ and disabled people.

Closing Date: 31 July 2026

Interview Date: August 2026 (TBC)

Please quote ref: AR3307RS

Job Description: AR3307RSFPs.pdf

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