An exciting opportunity to contribute to expanding Birkbeck’s teaching and research in the field of planetary exploration
The School of Natural Sciences at Birkbeck are looking to appoint a lecturer (Grade 8) in the field of planetary exploration. Key areas of interest include the exploration of planetary surfaces by spacecraft and studies of planetary habitability of relevance to astrobiology.
As a core member of our academic staff, you will contribute to the School through teaching, research, and administration. On the research side, you will develop an active, internationally recognized research programme focussed on planetary exploration and will be expected to apply for external funds to support these activities. On the teaching side, you will deliver online and face-to-face teaching in the areas of astrobiology and planetary science, as well as supervising undergraduate, MSc and PhD research projects. You will also contribute to a range of activities to support the strong collaborative culture of the School.
You will have a PhD in planetary science, astrobiology, or a related subject. You will also have a proven aptitude for research, illustrated by your publication record, and demonstrated interest and experience in teaching at undergraduate and/or postgraduate level. You will also have an understanding of Birkbeck, our principles of widening participation in higher education, and working with mature age, part time, and non-traditional learners from a diversity of backgrounds.
Specifically, you will:
– be committed to excellence in both research and teaching,
– be committed to providing a rich learning experience to students with a wide range of skillsets,
– have an interest in impact generating and public engagement activities, and be
– able to work collegially, with strong interpersonal, organizational and administration skills
You will be an active researcher in any area directly relevant to planetary exploration and astrobiology and have experience in the design, delivery and convening of courses at undergraduate and postgraduate level relevant to your background.
Shortlisted candidates will be asked to give a research seminar presentation (20 minutes) and attend an interview.
We welcome applicants from all backgrounds and particularly encourage those from Black, Asian and Minority Ethnic communities to apply. Birkbeck is committed to improving the gender and cultural diversity of its workforce, holding an Athena SWAN award, membership of WISE, operating Disability Confident and Mindful Employer schemes.
This opportunity would build on prior experience in the fields of: planetary exploration, astrobiology, and space mission involvement.
Remuneration
Grade 8 of the College’s London Pay Scale which is £49745 rising to £58554 per annum.
Birkbeck offers a competitive salary and pension scheme, 31 days paid leave, flexible working arrangements and some of the most generous benefits in the HE sector, all while being located right in the heart of Central London.
The salary quoted is on the College’s London Pay Scale which includes a consolidated Weighting/Allowance which applies only to staff whose normal contractual place of work is in the London area.
Enquiry
If you would like to know more about the role, please click on apply below or contact Prof Ian Crawford, Professor of Planetary Science & Astrobiology, at [email protected] or 020 3926 1362.
If you have technical issues or difficulties using the recruitment portal, please contact [email protected] providing your name and the job reference number of the position.
While we are happy to respond to all informal enquiries, only formal applications through the online system will be considered.