The University of St Andrews is seeking to enhance its teaching and research strengths in Solar and Magnetospheric Theory by appointing to Lecturer / Senior Lecturer / Reader level, within our Solar and Magnetospheric Theory Group (SMTG), in the School of Mathematics and Statistics.  The successful candidate will be a scholar with a growing international research reputation and commitment to delivering high quality teaching.

We welcome applications from candidates who hold a PhD in Applied Mathematics or a cognate discipline,   and have a track record of high quality research and publications in Solar or Magnetospheric Theory, or a related area compatible with the group’s research interests.  

For applicants to be considered for a Senior Lecturer or Reader level appointment, we would expect in addition that they can demonstrate a suitable combination of success in attracting external funding, research leadership at national and international level, and experience with successfully carrying out administrative duties.  

Although all areas of solar and magnetospheric theory will be considered, we are particularly interested in applications that would enhance or complement the research group’s current areas of expertise, for example in the theory of “space weather”.  

Candidates should also have teaching experience at undergraduate or postgraduate level, have experience applying relevant analytical skills and teaching techniques to a wide range of learners, and have good communication skills and share our desire to educate and inform students. Experience in curriculum development in applied mathematics or in similar disciplines will be an advantage, as will demonstrable ability to work in a team.  

The SMTG conducts cutting-edge research on a wide variety of solar and magnetospheric phenomena, ranging from magnetic flux emergence through the solar surface, over the dynamic interaction between the coronal plasma and magnetic field leading to coronal heating and solar activity processes, to the effect these activity processes have on the magnetosphere of the Earth (“space weather”). Many of our theoretical models of solar and magnetospheric plasma systems are data-driven, but we are also interested in fundamental plasma processes underpinning these models, for example MHD and kinetic plasma equilibria, MHD waves and instabilities, magnetic reconnection, magnetic topology and helicity, and particle acceleration. Due to the highly nonlinear nature of the mathematical problems we study, a large part of our research work is based on computational methods, and we are particularly interested in applications that would complement and enhance our expertise in numerical and computational methods relevant for the research area of our group.  

As a research and teaching position, the successful candidate will contribute to the delivery of teaching modules in applied mathematics that may be at a range of levels from first year undergraduate to specialised Honours level modules in Applied Mathematics.  They will also supervise final-year undergraduate projects, and will have the opportunity to supervise PhD students.  

*Appointment at Grade 8 Senior Lecturer / Reader level (salary range: £54,949 - £61,823 pa) will be considered for candidates with more experience/knowledge of the area with the job description to be amended accordingly.  

For informal enquiries, we encourage those considering applying to contact the Head of School, Professor Mark Chaplain (mathshos@st-andrews.ac.uk); Head of the Solar and Magnetospheric Theory Group, Professor Thomas Neukirch (tn3@st-andrews.ac.uk); or the AVP Dean of Science and Professor in Applied Mathematics, Professor Ineke De Moortel (ineke.demoortel@st-andrews.ac.uk).  

We are fully committed to equality and diversity in our recruitment and employment policies.  We operate family-friendly hours for core meetings and are happy to discuss flexible working arrangements for staff.   

Applications are particularly welcome from women, people from the Black, Asian, and Minority Ethnic (BAME) community and other protected characteristics who are under-represented in Academic posts at the University.  

Equality, diversity and inclusion are at the heart of the St Andrews experience. We strive to create a fair and inclusive culture demonstrated through our commitment to diversity awards (Athena Swan, Carer Positive, LGBT Charter, Race Charters and Stonewall). We celebrate diversity by promoting profiles of BAME, LGBTIQ+ staff and supporting networks including the Staff BAME Network; Staff with Disabilities Network; Staff LGBTIQ+ Network; and the Staff Parents & Carers Network. Full details available online: https://www.st-andrews.ac.uk/hr/edi/.

The School of Mathematics and Statistics is committed to creating an inclusive and welcoming environment that supports equality of opportunity and fair and equal representation for all https://www.st-andrews.ac.uk/mathematics-statistics/about/equality-diversity/.  

Closing Date: 28 February 2023                                               

Please quote ref: AC2326RNB         

Further Particulars: AC2326RNB FPs.doc

School of Mathematics & Statistics 

Salary: £43,414 – £53,353 per annum* 

Start Date: 1 June 2023, or as soon as possible thereafter