Research Associate in Space Plasma Physics

About the role

As a research associate in space plasma physics in the Physics Department you will work on data from the Solar Orbiter and Parker Solar Probe missions, studying the global evolution of the Sun’s magnetic field and large scale structure of the solar wind through the solar cycle. You will also have the chance to work on data from IMAP and other spacecraft at L1 to investigate the 3D structure of the solar wind and its effect on space weather at the Earth.

What you would be doing

You will be analysing spacecraft data, including measurements from the magnetic field instruments on Solar Orbiter and IMAP which were built at Imperial. The particular focus of this work is on using the novel out of ecliptic orbit of Solar Orbiter to characterise the global structure of the heliospheric magnetic field and link this to the evolution of the Sun’s internal field as it evolves from solar maximum to minimum over the next few years. Combined with other measurements such as those from Parker Solar Probe, you will also study the spatial and temporal evolution of flows from coronal holes and other solar regions. With the launch of IMAP later in 2025, there is also the opportunity to work with multi-point data from L1, where you will investigate which methods are most useful in determining the 3D field structure, building on work done with Cluster and MMS data. This work has direct application for real-time space weather forecasting as well as the study of plasma dynamics and turbulence.

What we are looking for

• Experience working with spacecraft data in the solar wind, especially from magnetic field and plasma instruments
• A good understanding of solar wind phenomena
• A good track record of collaborating with others and publishing your work
• Experience with Sun-solar wind connections and/or multi-point data analysis methods is desirable

What we can offer you

• The chance to join an active & dynamic research group, working alongside excellent doctoral students, post-doctoral researchers & permanent academics covering a wide range of space plasma physics topics
• The opportunity to work with pre-release data from key heliospheric missions such as Parker Solar Probe, Solar Orbiter & IMAP
• The opportunity to interact with the engineering teams that build and operate instruments on several current and upcoming missions including Solar Orbiter, IMAP & HelioSwarm
• The opportunity to continue your career at a world-leading institution
• Sector-leading salary and remuneration package (including 38 days off a year)

Please note this advertisement is for 24 months with possibility of extension. August 2025 payscale £49,017 - £57,472 per annum.

If you require any further details on the role please contact: Prof. Tim Horbury – t.horbury@imperial.ac.uk