Research Fellow in Astrophysics

Are you interested in astrophysics, and how advanced computational methods can be used to investigate the dynamics of objects ranging from neutron stars to exoplanets? Would you like to feel part of a strong supportive group at the University of Leeds?

We are looking for a Research Fellow to join our astrophysics group. The project is funded by a Science & Technology Facilities Council grant to Professors Adrian Barker and Rainer Hollerbach, and consists of two options:

• You could work with Professor Hollerbach, and collaborating also with Dr Andrei Igoshev at Newcastle University, on numerical modelling of magnetic fields in the interiors of neutron stars, or

• You could work with Professors Barker and Hollerbach on numerical modelling of tidal flows in the interiors of stars and exoplanets.

Either option would involve applying modern numerical techniques to the governing equations to explore how the magnetic fields and/or fluid flows evolve. Some of the numerical codes are already in place, but some new code development would also be involved. Both options could also involve making comparisons with astronomical data.

You will have a PhD in Mathematics, Astrophysics, or a closely allied discipline, with a strong background in numerical methods. Ideally you would have expertise in one of the above options, or some other aspect of astrophysics.

You will have the ability to conduct independent research and a developing track record of publications in international journals.

The School of Mathematics is committed to Equity, Diversity, and Inclusion, and to an environment free of any type of discrimination, where everyone can reach their full potential. We strive to support the career development of the Post-Doctoral Research Fellows that we recruit, and to provide them with the flexibility and support needed in their development as the future generation of world-leading researchers.

The School of Mathematics also offers a number of family-friendly employment practices that are designed to enable a good work-life balance and to be responsive to support personal circumstances. In many roles we offer flexible working and part-time working, and we have a range of services to help support staff through work and personal challenges.

We are open to discussing flexible working arrangements.

To explore the post further or for any queries you may have, please contact: 

Professor Rainer Hollerbach, Professor

Tel: +44 (0)113 343 5134

Email: R.Hollerbach@leeds.ac.uk  

Please note that this post may be suitable for sponsorship under the Skilled Worker visa route but first-time applicants might need to qualify for salary concessions. For more information, please visit the Government’s Skilled Worker visa page.

For research and academic posts, we will consider eligibility under the Global Talent visa. For more information, please visit the Government’s page, Apply for the Global Talent visa.

What we offer in return

26 days holiday plus approx.16 Bank Holidays/days that the University is closed by custom (including Christmas) – That’s 42 days a year!Generous pension scheme plus life assurance – the University contributes 14.5% of salary.  Health and Wellbeing: Discounted staff membership options at The Edge, our state-of-the-art Campus gym, with a pool, sauna, climbing wall, cycle circuit, and sports halls.Personal Development: Access to courses run by our Organisational Development & Professional Learning team.Access to on-site childcare, shopping discounts and travel schemes are also available.

And much more!  

Closing Date: 14 May 2025

Section: Research

Salary: £39,355 to £46,735 p.a.