"Post Doctoral Research Associate in Computational Planet Formation"

University of Sheffield - School of Mathematical & Physical Sciences

Location:	Sheffield
Salary:	£38,784 to £47,389
Hours:	Full Time
Contract Type:	Fixed-Term/Contract
Placed On:	19th January 2026
Closes:	16th February 2026
Job Ref:	2097

Job description:

The School of Mathematical & Physical Sciences at the University of Sheffield is seeking to recruit an enthusiastic post-doctoral research associate to work with Dr Richard Parker to quantify the effects of heating from short-lived radioisotopes (SLRs) ²⁶Al and ⁶⁰Fe on the formation and evolution of planetary systems, funded by the Royal Society. We will calculate the yields from these SLRs in different astrophysical environments (e.g. dense star clusters versus sparse stellar associations), assuming a variety of different delivery mechanisms (supernovae, stellar winds). We will use these yields to model the contribution of ²⁶Al and ⁶⁰Fe the long-term heating of planetesimals and young planetary systems.

You will have a PhD in astrophysics, geophysics or a related discipline (or equivalent experience) along with the ability to disseminate results via scientific journals and at meetings/conferences and to work effectively within a research group, while pursuing individual research.

We are one of the best not-for-profit organisations to work for in the UK. The Universitys Total Reward Package includes a competitive salary, a generous Pension Scheme and annual leave entitlement, as well as access to a range of learning and development courses to support your personal and professional development.

We are committed to exploring flexible working opportunities which benefit the individual and University. We build teams of people from different heritages and lifestyles from across the world, whose talent and contributions complement each other to greatest effect. We believe diversity in all its forms delivers greater impact through research, teaching and student experience.

To find out what makes the University of Sheffield a remarkable place to work, watch this short film: www.youtube.com/watch?v=7LblLk18zmo, and follow @sheffielduni on Twitter for more information.