Inverse Methods and Ionospheric Modelling Research Fellow – School of Engineering – 106995 – Grade 7 Full-time

Job Title

College of Engineering and Physical Sciences

Location

University of Birmingham, Edgbaston, Birmingham UK

Salary

Full time starting salary is normally in the range £36,636 to £46,049 with potential progression once in post to £48,822

Contract

Full Time, Fixed Term contract up to 3 years

Closing Date

15th July 2026

Travel

UK and International Travel may be required for this role

Background

The Space Environment and Radio Engineering (SERENE) group at the University of Birmingham is a leading research group in space environment and space weather research. With a multidisciplinary, collaborative and inclusive approach, the group focuses on a wide array of topics such as upper atmosphere modelling – covering empirical, physics-based, and data assimilation techniques – radio propagation, satellite orbit determination, and HF engineering. Additionally, the group explores fundamental physics problems concerning small-scale ionospheric structures and non-linear radiation belt dynamics.

Role Summary

To support the Ionospheric Climate – Global Reference Ionosphere (I-C-GloRI) European Research Council project, SERENE is looking to welcome an outstanding candidate to work in the field of ionospheric empirical modelling, D-Region ionospheric remote sensing, or ionospheric radio propagation.

This 3-year post will provide the candidate with the opportunity to fully engage with the research group, with work spanning ionospheric data assimilation modelling, D-region remote sensing, atmosphere-ionosphere coupling, HF radio propagation model development as well as first principles modelling of the coupled ionosphere-thermosphere system. This research opportunity will also allow the successful applicant to further develop their own research ideas and pursue collaborative research both locally and internationally.

Main Duties

• Contribute to the SERENE research group by supporting its research goals.
• Collaborate on research developing and implementing ionospheric models or measurement techniques.
• Analyze and interpret research findings and results.
• Prepare reports and scientific journal papers.
• Share your work and represent SERENE at international conferences.
• Provide subject area support as an ionospheric modelling, measurement technique, or ML/inverse methods expert within SERENE.
• Assist in the training and support of other early-career members of SERENE.

Person Specification

• First degree in physics, mathematics, or similar, with a higher degree (or near to completion) relevant to empirical modelling (any discipline), machine learning (any discipline), inverse methods (any discipline), ionospheric modelling and/or ionospheric measurement techniques, radio propagation, or equivalent qualifications.
• Experience using nonlinear fitting techniques or inversion methods is desirable.
• Experience studying the ionosphere or related systems is desirable.
• Strong analytical capability.
• Ability to communicate complex information clearly.
• Ability to assess resource requirements and use resources effectively.
• Understanding of and ability to contribute to broader management/administration processes.
• Collaborate on the planning and organizing of research programmes.
• Coordinate work with others to ensure synergy and avoid duplication of effort.
• Knowledge of the protected characteristics of the Equality Act 2010, and a commitment to ensuring those with protected characteristics are treated equally and fairly in day-to-day activities.

Informal enquiries to David Themens, email: d.r.themens@bham.ac.uk