Job Details
Section
Astronomy Group
Location:
Highfield Campus
Salary
£36,636 to £41,064
Full Time Fixed Term (3 years)
Closing Date:
Wednesday 14 January 2026
Reference
3267925WF
We invite applications for a 3-year full-time Postdoctoral Researcher position in (Exo)Planetary Climate Modelling to join the newly established research group led by Dr João M. Mendonça at the University of Southampton: https://software-
Our group is developing an innovative class of 3D climate models to explore the atmospheres and climates of Earth and other planets across the Solar System and beyond. The new climate model, OASIS, aims to overcome the limitations of current frameworks and enable unprecedented simulations of planetary environments under a wide range of conditions.
The successful candidate will primarily work on the development and enhancement of the OASIS model, contributing to new physical parameterisations, numerical algorithms, and/or performance optimisation. They will also lead the application of the new code developments to open questions in Solar System and Exoplanet research. We particularly welcome applicants with backgrounds in (exo)planetary climate science, atmospheric physics, applied mathematics, or computer science.
This position offers an exciting opportunity to engage in international collaborations, with dedicated funding for professional travel, including potential research visits to partner institutions such as UCL and Caltech. Over the course of the three-year appointment, the postholder will also have the opportunity to pursue independent research projects aligned with the group's broader scientific goals.
The start date is flexible, but the position is expected to begin in September - December 2026. Candidates should possess a PhD or equivalent qualifications and / or experience in a relevant discipline by the start of the appointment. For informal enquiries about the position or research programme, please contact Dr João M. Mendonça (Astronomy Research Group) via email at
Applications should include:
Research Statement (max 2 pages)
Curriculum Vitae
As a university we aim to create an environment where everyone can thrive and are proactive in fostering a culture of inclusion, respect and equality of opportunity. We believe that we can only truly meet our objectives if we are reflective of society, so we are passionate about creating a working environment in which you are free to bring your whole self to work. With a generous holiday allowance as well as additional university closure days we are committed to supporting our staff and students and open to a flexible working approach.
Apply by 11.59 pm GMT on the closing date. For assistance contact Recruitment on or quoting the job number.