Job Description - External Working at Durham University A globally outstanding centre of teaching and esearch excellence, a warm and friendly place to work, a unique and historic setting - Durham is a University like no other. As one of the UK's leading Universities, Durham is an incredible place to define your career. The University is located within a beautiful historic city, home to a UNESCO World Heritage Site, and surrounded by stunning countryside. Our talented scholars and researchers from around the world are tackling global issues and making a difference to people's lives. We believe that inspiring our people to do outstanding things at Durham enables Durham people to do outstanding things in the world. Being a part of Durham is about more than just the success of the University, it's also about contributing to the success of the city, county and community. Our University Strategy is built on three pillars of research, education and wider student experience, but also on our keen sense of community and of inspiring others to achieve their potential. Click here to find out more about Our Purpose and Values We want our University to be a place where people can be free to be themselves, no matter what their identity or background. Together, we celebrate difference, value one another and are each responsible for creating an inclusive community that is respectful and fair for all. Find out more about the benefits of working at the University and what it's like to live and work in the Durham area on our Why Join Us? - Information Page The Department The Department of Physics at Durham University is one of the leading UK Physics departments with an outstanding reputation for excellence in teaching, research and employability of our students. In the Research Excellence Framework (REF) exercise of 2021, the Department had 96% of publications rated as 3*/4*. The Department is committed to advancing equality and we aim to ensure that our culture is inclusive, and that our systems support flexible and family-friendly working, as recognised by our Juno Champion and Athena SWAN Silver awards. We recognise and value the benefits of diversity throughout our staff and students. Durham University hosts one of Europe's largest and most active research groups working in the fields of observational and theoretical extragalactic astronomy, cosmology, and instrumentation. Currently we have about 35 permanent members of academic staff, around 100 postdoctoral researchers and postgraduate students, and several research-active emeritus staff. We have access to all UK national observing facilities, including ESO, ALMA and ESA, and membership of the KMOS, NuSTAR, XRISM LOFAR, PAUS, MOONs and IXPE teams. Durham is also a partner in the DESI, 4MOST, WEAVE, Euclid, LSST, JCMT, HARMONI, and e-MERLIN collaborations and surveys. We are part of the Virgo Consortium and host extensive supercomputing resources, including the `Cosmology Machine', some of which is part of the DiRAC national supercomputing facility. Further information may be found at http://www.astro.dur.ac.uk. The Role Research Assistant We invite applications for a Research Assistant position, to start in October 2026, with an initial period of 2 years and the possibility of further extension. The post is funded by the ERC Consolidator Grant project X-MAPS and will be supervised by Dr Adam Ingram, who will be moving to Durham University in June 2026. The successful candidate will join thriving research teams within the Centre for Extragalactic Astronomy (CEA) at Durham, which is a leading group in observational astrophysics with expertise in compact objects, active galactic nuclei, galaxies and large-scale structure. The Role Postdoctoral Research Associate We invite applications for a Postdoctoral Research Associate position, to start in October 2026, with an initial period of 2 years and the possibility of further extension. The post is funded by the ERC Consolidator Grant project X-MAPS and will be supervised by Dr Adam Ingram, who will be moving to Durham University in June 2026. The successful candidate will join thriving research teams within the Centre for Extragalactic Astronomy (CEA) at Durham, which is a leading group in observational astrophysics with expertise in compact objects, active galactic nuclei, galaxies and large-scale structure. The role will contribute to the goals of the X-MAPS project, which aims to unify fast X-ray timing and X-ray polarimetry techniques to improve our understanding of black hole X-ray binaries and measure black hole fundamental properties. Specific research projects include training neural networks to act as fast drop-in replacements for advanced X-ray timing and polarisation models (e.g. the X-ray reverberation mapping code RELTRANS), and applying advanced Fourier timing techniques to search for rapid spectral and polarimetric variability in the X-ray signal from black hole X-ray binaries. We are therefore searching for candidates with experience in theoretical modelling of accreting black holes and/or in observational stochastic X-ray timing and polarimetric analysis. Key Responsibilities Grade 6: To understand and convey information which needs careful explanation to the team or group of people through presentations, discussions and meetings which contribute to the production of research reports and publications. To write up results of research work, present information on research progress and outcomes to bodies supervising research in a clear and accurate manner. To analyse or undertake basic research by deciding how best to apply existing methodology according to overall context and objectives. To deal with problems that may affect the achievement of research objectives and deadlines by discussing with the Principal Investigator or Grant-holder and offering creative or innovative solutions. To liaise with research colleagues and make internal and external contacts to develop knowledge and understanding to form relationships for future research collaboration. To contribute to the planning of research projects. To assist in contributing to support student projects on the use of research methods and equipment. To contribute to fostering a collegial and respectful working environment which is inclusive and welcoming and where everyone is treated fairly with dignity and respect. To engage in wider citizenship to support the department and wider discipline. To engage in continuing professional development by attending relevant training and development courses. Key responsibilities Grade 7: To understand and convey material of a specialist or highly technical nature to the team or group of people through presentations and discussions that leads to the presentation of research papers in conferences and publications. To prepare and deliver presentations on research outputs/activities to audiences which may include: research sponsors, academic and non-academic audiences. To publish high quality outputs, including papers for submission to peer reviewed journals and papers for presentation at conferences and workshops under the direction of the Principal Investigator or Grant-holder. To assist with the development of research objectives and proposals. To conduct individual and collaborative research projects under the direction of the Principal Investigator or Grant-holder. To work with the Principal Investigator or Grant-holder and other colleagues in the research group, as appropriate, to identify areas for research, develop new research methods and extend the research portfolio. To deal with problems that may affect the achievement of research objectives and deadlines by discussing with the Principal Investigator or Grant-holder and offering creative or innovative solutions. To liaise with research colleagues and make internal and external contacts to develop knowledge and understanding to form relationships for future research collaboration. To plan and manage own research activity, research resources in collaboration with others and contribute to the planning of research projects. To deliver training in research techniques/approaches to peers, visitors and students as appropriate. To be involved in student supervision, as appropriate, and assist with the assessment of the knowledge of students. To contribute to fostering a collegial and respectful working environment which is inclusive and welcoming and where everyone is treated fairly with dignity and respect. To engage in wider citizenship to support the department and wider discipline. To engage in continuing professional development by participation in the undergraduate or postgraduate teaching programmes or by membership of departmental committees, etc. and by attending relevant training and development courses. This post is fixed term for 2 years (with the possibility to extend) due to funding being available for a fixed period only. The post-holder is employed to work on research/a research project which will be led by another colleague. Whilst this means that the post-holder will not be carrying out independent research in his/her own right, the expectation is that they will contribute to the advancement of the project, through the development of their own research ideas/adaptation and development of research protocols. Successful applicants will, ideally, be in post by 1st October 2026 Working at Durham A competitive salary is only one part of the many fantastic benefits you will receive if you join the University: You'll receive 30 days annual leave per year in addition to 8 public holidays and 4 customary days per year - a total of 42 days per year. The University closes between Christmas and New Year. We offer a generous pension scheme, and as a new member of staff you will be automatically enrolled into the University Superannuation Scheme (USS). No matter how you travel to work, we have you covered. We have ample parking across campus, a cycle to work scheme which helps you to buy a bike and discount with local bus and train companies. You can also take advantage of our cost-effective and environmentally friendly Tusker Car Benefit Scheme, allowing you to lease a brand-new electric or hybrid vehicle with savings on tax and National Insurance. We have a genuine commitment to developing our colleagues professionally and personally. There is a comprehensive range of development courses, apprenticeships and access to qualifications and routes to develop your career in the University. All staff have dedicated annual time to concentrate on their personal development opportunities. We provide wide-ranging health and wellbeing support including discounted membership for our state-of-the-art sport and gym facilities and access to a 24-7 Employee Assistance Programme. Our on-site nursery is rated Outstanding by Ofsted, and you can access holiday camps for children aged 5-16. Our family-friendly policies, including maternity and adoption leave, are among the most generous in the higher education sector (and likely above and beyond many employers). We offer all staff the opportunity to take part in volunteering activities to make a difference in the local community. You can access exclusive discounts via our benefits portal including money off at supermarkets, high street retailers, IT products such as Apple, eating out and days out at various attractions. Various salary sacrifice schemes are also available to help you take advantage of tax savings on benefits. If you are moving to Durham, you may be eligible for help with removal costs, and we have a dedicated team who can help you with the practicalities such as house hunting and schools. If you need a visa, we cover most visa costs and offer an interest-free loan scheme to pay for dependant visas. Discover more about our total rewards and benefits package here. Durham University is committed to equality, diversity and inclusion Equality, diversity, and inclusion (EDI) are a key component of the University's Strategy and a central part of everything we do. We also live by our Purpose and Values and our Staff Code of Conduct. At Durham we actively work towards providing an environment where our staff and students can study, work and live in a community which is supportive and inclusive. We welcome and encourage applications from those who are currently under-represented in our work force, including people with disabilities and from racially minoritised ethnic groups. If you have taken a career break or periods of leave that may have impacted on the volume and recency of your research outputs and other activities, such as maternity, adoption or parental leave, you may wish to disclose this in your application. The selection committee will take this into account when evaluating your application. The University has been awarded the Disability Confident Leader status. If you are a candidate with a disability, we are committed to ensuring fair treatment throughout the recruitment process. We will make adjustments to support the interview process wherever it is reasonable to do so and, where successful, reasonable adjustments will be made to support people within their role. What to Submit All applicants are asked to submit: A CV A covering letter (two pages or less) which details your experience, skills and achievements in meeting (or the potential to meet) the criteria set out below. Details of two (preferably academic/research) referees, and the details of your current line manager (if not one of the two referees) so that we may seek an employment reference. Next Steps Short-listed candidates will be invited to the University, either virtually or in-person and will have the opportunity to meet key members of the Department. The assessment for the post will normally include a presentation to staff in the Department followed by an interview. In the event that you are unable to attend in person on the date offered, it may not be possible to offer you an interview on an alternative date. Please note that in submitting your application, Durham University will be processing your data. We would ask that you consider the relevent University Privacy Statement, which provides information on the collation, storing and use of data. Person Specification (Grade 6) Essential Criteria: A good first degree in Physics or a closely related subject. A Masters in Physics or a closely related subject. Experience in modelling the spectral, timing or polarimetric properties of accreting black holes Demonstrable knowledge in black hole astrophysics Advanced programming skills Demonstrable understanding of statistical methods. Excellent problem-solving skills and the ability to propose innovative solutions to meet project requirements and strict deadlines. Excellent interpersonal and communication skills, with the ability to liaise with a range of stakeholders. Desirable Criteria : A PhD (or be close to submission) in Astrophysics or a closely related subject. Experience in working with data from key X-ray observatories such as NICER, NuSTAR and IXPE Experience, or training, in applying machine learning techniques to advanced models of accreting black holes. Demonstrable ability to document research findings and disseminate results through high-quality publications. Ability to assist in the provision of support to student projects. Person Specification (Grade 7) Essential Criteria: Qualifications A PhD in Astrophysics or a closely related subject. Experience 2. Experience in modelling the spectral, timing or polarimetric properties of accreting black holes. 3. Demonstrable knowledge in black hole astrophysics. 4. Track record of publications in peer-reviewed journals and conference proceedings, commensurate with career stage. Skills 5. Advanced programming skills. 6. Demonstrable understanding of statistical methods. 7.Excellent problem-solving skills and the ability to propose innovative solutions to meet project requirements and strict deadlines. 8. Excellent interpersonal and communication skills, with the ability to liaise with a range of stakeholders. 9. Demonstrable ability to document research findings and disseminate results through high-quality publications. 10. Demonstrate ability to plan and manage independant research. Desirable Criteria Experience Experience in working with data from key X-ray observatories such as NICER, NuSTAR and IXPE. Experience, or training, in applying machine learning techniques to advanced models of accreting black holes. Demonstrable ability to document research findings and disseminate results through high-quality publications. A track record of presenting research at conferences, symposia, or meetings, commensurate with stage of career. Demonstrable ability to develop research proposals and designs in collaboration with other academics. Experience assisting in supervision of students. Contact Information Department contact for academic-related enquiries: Dr Adam Ingram, Associate Professor in the Department of Physics (adam.ingram@newcastle.ac.uk) Contact information for technical difficulties when submitting your application: If you encounter technical difficulties when using the online application form, we prefer you send enquiries by email. Please send your name along with abrief description of the problem you're experiencing toe.recruitment@durham.ac.uk Alternatively, you may call 0191 334 6801 from the UK, or 44 191 334 6801 from outside the UK. This number operates during the hours of 09.00 and 17.00 Monday to Friday, UK time. We will normally respond within one working day (Monday to Friday, excluding UK public holidays). University contact for general queries about the recruitment process: e.recruitment@durham.ac.uk How to Apply To progress to the assessment stage, candidates must evidence each of the essential criteria required for the role, which are outlined in the person specification. It will be at the discretion of the recruiting panel as to whether they will also consider any desirable criteria, but we would urge candidates to provide evidence for all criteria. While some criteria will be considered at the shortlisting stage, other criteria may be considered later in the assessment process, such as questions at interview. Submitting your application We prefer to receive applications online. We will update you about your application at various points throughout the selection process, via automated emails from our e-recruitment system. Please check your spam/junk folder periodically to make sure you have not missed any of our updates. SECONDMENT The post is full time, fixed term for a 2 year period and may be offered on an internal secondment basis subject to the agreement of the current line manager.