Research Associate in Theoretical Cosmology

Overview

The University of Sheffield invites applications for a Research Associate in Theoretical Cosmology within the School of Mathematical and Physical Sciences. This full-time, fixed-term position lasts for 12 months and operates on a hybrid work arrangement. The successful candidate will join the Royal Society-funded project titled H0 Tension Test, supported through a Dorothy Hodgkin Fellowship renewal and led by Dr Eleonora Di Valentino.

The successful researcher will investigate cosmological tensions, with a particular focus on the Hubble constant tension, to determine whether discrepancies stem from systematic effects or signal new physics beyond the standard model. Research activities involve exploring extensions to the standard model including dark energy, dark matter, neutrino physics, inflation, and modified gravity. Responsibilities include developing and testing cosmological models, contributing to research publications, presenting findings to specialist audiences, and participating in conferences, collaboration meetings, and research visits. The postholder will join the Cosmology, Relativity and Gravitation group.

Who can apply

Candidates must hold a PhD in physics, astronomy, cosmology, or a closely related discipline, or possess equivalent experience. Applicants are required to have a strong research background in cosmology, alongside analytical and computational skills. Expertise is needed in one or more areas, including cosmological data analysis, statistical inference, theoretical modelling, or numerical simulations. Candidates must also demonstrate research achievement, potential, the capacity to develop independent ideas, and effective communication skills.

What you get

The position offers an annual salary ranging from 39,560 to 41,885 GBP per annum. The appointment is fixed-term for 12 months on a full-time schedule. Additional benefits include annual leave entitlement with options to purchase more, a pension scheme, flexible working opportunities, retail discounts, and support for wellbeing and professional development. Funding is also provided for conference participation, collaboration meetings, and research visits.

Key dates

The closing date for applications is 2026-12-01.