Research Fellow - The Emergence of Globular Clusters

Applications are invited for a one year Postdoctoral Research Associate to work with Prof. Justin Read in the Astrophysics group within the School of Mathematics and Physics at the University of Surrey. The position is fully funded by the STFC Astronomy Small Award “The Emergence of Globular Clusters” for the period October 2026 to September 2027.

Applicants with a strong background in numerical simulations of astrophysical systems and/or galactic dynamics and mass modelling are encouraged to apply. Prior experience working with large datasets, mass modelling techniques and/or high resolution simulations of dwarf galaxies would be advantageous.

The researcher will have access to Surrey’s High Performance Computing cluster Eureka2 as well as career mentoring and training opportunities. Travel and equipment funds are available as part of the grant. They will join the Astrophysics group, a vibrant, diverse and dynamic environment with 10 faculty and over 10 graduate students and early-career researchers. Areas of interest in the group include galactic dynamics and archeology, supermassive black holes and gravitational wave sources, cosmology and stellar evolution.

The University of Surrey is committed to promoting equity, diversity and inclusion and we particularly welcome applicants from underrepresented groups. The Department of Physics is proud to hold both an Institute of Physics Juno Champion Award and an Athena Swan Silver Award.

How to apply

Applicants should include a CV with a publications list, a 2-3 page research statement (summarising current research interests, past achievements and future plans), a cover letter, and the names and contact details of three referees.

The starting date is 1st October 2026. The position is fixed term until September 2027.

Informal enquiries are very welcome. Please contact Prof. Justin Read via j.read@surrey.ac.uk.

Further details

For more information and to apply online, please click on the 'Apply' button above.
 
In return we offer a generous pension, relocation assistance where appropriate , flexible working options including job share and blended home/campus working locations (dependent on work duties), access to world-class leisure facilities on campus, a range of travel schemes and supportive family friendly benefits including an excellent on-site nursery.

Click here to find out more about the benefits we offer to support you.

The University of Surrey is committed to providing an inclusive environment that offers equal opportunities for all.  We place great value on diversity and are seeking to increase the diversity within our community.  Therefore we particularly encourage applications from under-represented groups, such as people from Black, Asian and minority ethnic groups and people with disabilities.

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