We are seeking a motivated and collaborative Research Associate to join the ERC-funded PROSPER project, exploring the risks posed by space debris and helping develop technologies that support sustainable access to space. Working within an interdisciplinary team across physics, chemistry, engineering and computing, you’ll play a key role in developing and testing next-generation debris detectors.

As Research Associate you can expect to be involved in:

• Building and developing dust detector prototypes for testing and validation
• Conducting impact experiments using the University’s two-stage light gas gun facility
• Analysing detector data and developing software to support data processing and interpretation
• Presenting research findings through publications, presentations and collaborative project work

What will you bring to the role?

• A PhD (completed or near completion) in physics, engineering, computing or a related discipline, or equivalent research experience
• Experience working in a scientific laboratory or research environment
• Coding experience in Python, Matlab, LabVIEW or similar
• A collaborative and proactive approach, with enthusiasm for interdisciplinary research

What we can offer in return:

As a member of our team, you can expect a friendly, open and collaborative working environment and support in your development and wellbeing. You'll enjoy a range of great staff benefits including:

• 43 days' leave per year (personal leave, bank holidays and additional days allocated for the Christmas period, pro rata for part-time staff)
• Excellent pension scheme with generous employer contributions
• Corporate employee-funded healthcare plan, in partnership with Benenden Health

For more information about what you can look forward to if you join us, visit our dedicated webpage: Working at Kent

We are ambitious for our people, our communities and the region we serve – join us in making the world a better place. Visit our website for more on who we are: http://www.kent.ac.uk/about/

Please see the links below to view the full job description and to apply for this post. For further information regarding the application process, please contact peopleserviceshr@kent.ac.uk quoting reference number EMP-010-26.

Closing Date: 21 Jun 2026

Section: Research

Salary: £39,906 to £44,746 per annum