Post Doctoral Research Associate, MoonRISE (FASS)
Advert Reference Number: 1558
Job Location: Milton Keynes, Remote/Hybrid
Department: Geography
Closing Date: 20 May 2026
Weekly Working Hours: 37
Contract Type: Fixed Term Contract
Contract End: 21 months from start date
Key Responsibilities
* To undertake research exploring how ideas of care have relevance to outer space in dialogue with current work in the field of Social Studies of Outer Space, and with reference to work in Planetary Science.
* To develop Isabelle Stengers and Bruno Latour's work on diplomacy such that it can be applied to the governance of lunar activities.
* To design with the PI and other team members a methodology for enacting space diplomacy in research and policy.
* To contribute to research on the values of lunar exploration activities and using that to inform principles for conflict resolution in space governance.
* To engage with different audiences and communities who may be differently affected by changing and increasing lunar activities, including understanding the question of justice in relation to knowledge production.
* To undertake research that is internationally excellent and leads to high‑impact peer‑reviewed publications.
* To be an active member of the MoonRISE project team, attending regular research group meetings and sharing knowledge with other members of the team.
* To organise internal and external events such as workshops and evidence cafés (in person and hybrid).
* To present research updates and results and participate in seminars and workshops aimed at sharing research outcomes, fostering interdisciplinary collaborations.
* To carry out administrative tasks such as risk assessments, workload planning, career development and staff appraisals.
* To participate in national and international conferences (at least one per year) and events of learned societies.
* To undertake professional development aligned with the job role and future aspirations.
* To demonstrate the ability to act in accordance with the principles and practice of equality and diversity.
* To undertake other duties, as directed by their Line Manager.
About You
* PhD completed with a strong Science and Technology Studies component within Geography, STS, or related subjects.
* Ability to translate theoretical research into insights that address practical research problems and/or design research methods.
* Experience working in interdisciplinary teams.
* Experience working with non‑academic partners and/or engaging with communities beyond academia.
* Demonstrable record of communicating research through peer‑reviewed publications and conference presentations.
* Excellent oral and written communication in a variety of contexts.
* Ability to plan and prioritise own workload and work to agreed deadlines.
* Evidence of responsibility and accountability for tasks while making effective use of resources and feedback to improve efficiency and performance.
* Evidence of personal commitment to developing interpersonal skills, respecting and valuing diversity.
* Experience or knowledge of governance, ethical and philosophical debates related to space exploration.
* Knowledge of global institutions and space policy.
* Experience working with or within the space sector.
* Evidence of contributions to public engagement or educational activities.
What's in it for you?
At The Open University we offer a range of benefits to recognise and reward great work, along with flexible working policies that contribute towards a great work‑life balance. Hybrid working can include at least two days per week at our Milton Keynes office, and we support flexible working arrangements such as part‑time, compressed hours or a hybrid pattern.
The Open University is committed to equality, diversity and inclusion. We aim to foster a diverse and inclusive environment so that everyone can reach their potential. We encourage applications from all under‑represented groups and aspire to make OU a supportive workplace for all.
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