Overview
Post Doctoral Research Associate (PDRA) – Primitive Asteroids at The Open University. STFC-funded PDRA position in the School of Physical Sciences. 37 hours per week on a fixed-term contract of up to 15 months from the start date, located in Milton Keynes.
About the Role
Our research covers Solar System science and exploration, using laboratory and space mission experiments, remote observation, environmental simulation and modelling to investigate surfaces and atmospheres of terrestrial planets, the Moon, asteroids, comets and extra-terrestrial materials. The post-holder will work independently as part of the Cosmochemistry Research Group (CRG). The project aims to quantify how important Ryugu- and Bennu-type material is in the Near-Earth environment and why it appears underrepresented in present-day meteorite flux. Candidates should have demonstrable research experience in reflectance spectroscopy of planetary bodies and/or working with geological/extra-terrestrial samples using standard petrological tools, and a track record of handling large and complex datasets.
Note: content describes expected contributions and the general focus of the research without altering factual details.
Key responsibilities include developing and applying methods to investigate primitive asteroidal materials and their roles in near-Earth space, with emphasis on analytical rigor and independent work as well as collaboration in a modern laboratory environment.
Key Responsibilities
* Prepare samples for spectroscopic and geochemical measurements
* Perform UV-VIS spectroscopy measurements of asteroidal materials akin to CI-type meteorites
* Undertake melting experiments on CI-type materials to simulate atmospheric entry heating
* Measure the oxygen isotope composition of natural and experimental samples
* Process data and synthesize results, combining geochemical and spectroscopic information
* Publish papers in a timely manner and present findings at international conferences and workshops
* Undertake other duties as directed by the PI on the project
Opportunities will be provided to further develop skills through formal and informal training.
About You
* PhD (awarded or submitted by the start date) in analytical planetary science or a closely related field
* Demonstrable expertise in spectroscopy and/or geochemistry
* Ability to carry out micron-to-sub-micron scale sample analyses and standard preparation
* Experience in Mass Spectrometry to obtain isotopic and/or elemental compositions in geological materials
* Ability to work in a team and on own initiative; strong planning and organizational skills
* Strong verbal and written communication and presentation skills
* Record of publishing in scientific journals
* Research experience relevant to the proposed research (e.g., spectroscopic studies of primitive asteroids or geochemical measurements of primitive asteroidal samples)
* Experience in developing new analytical protocols and/or sample preparation methodologies
* Proactive, self-motivated, and able to work without supervision; adaptable to research developments
Support with your application
If you have questions or need support or adjustments relating to your application, recruitment process, or the role, please contact us on 01908 541111 or email careers@open.ac.uk, quoting the advert reference number.
What’s in it for you?
The Open University offers a range of benefits and flexible working policies. Details are available on the Staff Benefits page. We are open to discussions about flexible working arrangements and encourage you to reach out to discuss what works best for you.
Next steps in the Recruitment process
Interviews are anticipated to take place in the week commencing 27 October.
How to apply
To apply for this role please submit the following documents:
* CV
* Supporting statement (no more than 1000 words, outlining why you’re interested and how your skills and experience meet the essential and desirable criteria, as detailed in the job description)
The Open University is committed to equality, diversity and inclusion, and we encourage applications from all underrepresented groups.
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