The Fluid and Complex Systems Research Centre (FCS) at Coventry University is looking to host a prestigious Ernest Rutherford Fellowship (ERF).

These fellowships support early career researchers with leadership potential, enabling them to establish independent research programmes. Targeting researchers without permanent academic positions, applications should align with the Science and Technology Facilities Council (STFC) core science areas, including astronomy, solar and planetary science, particle physics, particle astrophysics, cosmology, nuclear physics, and accelerator physics.

Key details

• Duration & funding: The fellowship is for 5 years, covering salary, research expenses, and travel funding. However, Coventry University has agreed to make this role permanent (grade 8) following the successful award and completion of the fellowship. Teaching duties at 40%, in line with grade 8, would commence following the completion of the fellowship.
• Eligibility: Open to applicants of any nationality with a PhD (or equivalent experience) and clear leadership potential.
• Research areas: Theoreticians, numericists, and experimentalists in related fields are encouraged to apply. Our centre conducts unique experimental research in geophysical and astrophysical fluid dynamics.
• Internal selection: Coventry University can submit only one application, necessitating an internal selection process.

Important dates

• Expression of interest deadline: Sunday 21 July 2024
• Internal selection outcome notification: End of July 2024
• First draft proposal submission: Saturday 7 September 2024
• Final submission deadline: Tuesday 1 October 2024

Application process

1. Contact: Interested candidates should reach out to an FCS centre member (Prof. Eun-jin Kim Prof. Alban Potherat, Prof. Susanne Horn, Dr. Janis Priede, or Dr. Junho Park) to discuss and get mentorship.
2. Visit: Candidates are warmly invited to visit the research centre and meet the team at any time either before or after the internal deadline for expression of interest.
3. Submission: Submit your expression of interest (template available) or a covering letter with your CV (including top five publications) to Prof. Eun-jin Kim by Sunday 21 July 2024, copying your Coventry University academic mentor.
4. Interview: Selected candidates will be invited for an interview and a visit to the centre.
5. Proposal development: The successful candidate will develop their proposal with guidance from their mentor and the research funding team.

Diversity and inclusion

We welcome fellowship applications from diverse backgrounds and underrepresented groups. The ERF scheme supports flexible working, part-time arrangements, and accommodations for personal circumstances such as caring responsibilities or health conditions. Applicants returning from career breaks or those working outside academia are also welcome.

For any queries or to discuss individual circumstances and accessibility requirements, please contact Prof. Eun-jin Kim.