Research Assistant (Fixed Term) in Cambridge

Fixed-term: The funds for this post are available for 4 years in the first instance.

The PulsarMAP team seeks a Research Assistant to help transform our understanding of both pulsar evolution and the structures of the Milky Way, all whilst completing a PhD in Physics at the University of Cambridge.

Pulsars are spinning magnetized neutron stars emitting a beam of radio waves, and this radio beam is our direct observational link to an environment with some of the highest densities and gravitational field strengths imaginable. It can also be used like a torch to illuminate the complexities of the interstellar medium, providing unique insights into the structures of our Galaxy. With modern radio telescopes and large-scale surveys, we have the capacity to scale up our understanding of pulsar and Galactic physics and achieve a connected picture of pulsar astronomy.

The successful candidate will join a group dedicated to the ERC-funded project PulsarMAP: "Pulsar Mode-changing And Polarization: mapping out a connected picture of neutron star evolution". PulsarMAP is made up of three projects which seek to map the evolution of neutron stars, capitalising on surveys, statistics and machine-learning. Their objectives, and the impact of the results, are as follows:

1. GalaxyMap: probe the behaviour of compact anisotropic structures in the interstellar medium, transforming our knowledge of galactic structure and evolution.

2. ModingMap: map out how mode-changing and nulling affect the pulsar population, advancing pulsar timing accuracy for gravitational wave searches.

3. PopulationMap: capture the origins of radio pulsar time-variability in the magnetosphere by linking it to polarization, revolutionising our understanding of extreme neutron star physics, and the connection to magnetars and Fast Radio Bursts.

In this role you will be employed as a Research Assistant contributing to the goals of the PulsarMAP project, with the opportunity to direct your scientific research into the completion of a PhD in Physics. We are seeking a highly motivated PhD candidate with the capacity to combine simulations, modelling and statistics of large data sets to address the project's science goals.

This is an opportunity to direct your enthusiasm and creativity into ground-breaking research, with support to develop the skills you need to become a leader in your field. You will push the boundaries of our understanding of extreme neutron star physics and Galactic structure, developing your own research ideas and building expertise in large-scale data science. For more information, see https://www.lsoswald.com/phd-project.html

The successful candidate would be employed as a Research Assistant and also accepted for admission as a PhD student with the University, subject to the candidate satisfying the University's admissions requirements for PhD study. Applications for the PhD programme can be made here - https://www.postgraduate.study.cam.ac.uk/courses/directory/pcphpdphy

This position is available from September 2027.

Click the 'Apply' button below to register an account with our recruitment system (if you have not already) and apply online.

Application closing date: 08 December 2026.

Informal enquiries are welcomed and should be directed to Dr Lucy Oswald, at lo280@cam.ac.uk.

Please quote reference KA51653 on your application and in any correspondence about this vacancy.

The University actively supports equality, diversity and inclusion and encourages applications from all sections of society.

The University has a responsibility to ensure that all employees are eligible to live and work in the UK.