Postdoctoral Research Assistant (UK Visa Sponsorship)

Job Description

About the Role

The Department of Meteorology at the University of Reading is inviting applications for a Postdoctoral Research Assistant to join its internationally recognised Atmospheric Composition, Radiation and Climate research group.

This post focuses on the non-CO₂ impacts of aviation on climate, an area of rapidly growing scientific, industrial, and policy importance. While aviation decarbonisation often centres on carbon dioxide, non-CO₂ effects—such as aerosol emissions and contrail-cirrus formation—play a critical role in short- and medium-term climate forcing.

You will join the Horizon Europe–funded UNIC project (Understanding Non-CO₂ Impact for deCarbonized Aviation), led by ONERA (France) and involving a consortium of leading European research organisations. The project combines novel aircraft emission measurements with advanced modelling of atmospheric chemistry and cloud–aerosol interactions to inform future aviation and climate policy.

What You Will Be Working On

In this role, you will contribute to advancing understanding of how aircraft-emitted particulate matter interacts with natural cirrus clouds, from hours to days after emission. Your work will help bridge observational data and numerical modelling to improve climate impact assessments of aviation.

Key responsibilities include:

• Developing and applying numerical atmospheric models to study aerosol–cloud interactions
• Investigating the evolution and climatic impact of aircraft-related particulate emissions
• Collaborating closely with European project partners within the UNIC consortium
• Contributing to high-quality scientific publications and international conference presentations
• Participating in project meetings and supporting the delivery of internationally visible research outputs

About You

You will be a motivated early-career researcher with a strong interest in atmospheric science and climate impacts of aviation.

You will typically have:

• A completed (or near-completion) PhD in meteorology, climate science, atmospheric physics, or a related discipline
• Experience using numerical atmospheric models for research
• A strong grounding in atmospheric physics
• Proficiency in scientific computing and data visualisation (e.g. Python, Fortran, MATLAB, or similar)
• The ability to work both independently and collaboratively in an international research environment
• Experience with Large Eddy Simulation (LES) or aerosol–cloud microphysics modelling would be advantageous, but is not essential.

Research Environment

The University of Reading is a world leader in meteorology and climate science, with strong links to national and international research bodies. You will be embedded in a supportive, interdisciplinary research culture that values collaboration, openness, and scientific impact.

The Department of Meteorology plays an active role in shaping evidence used by policymakers and international organisations concerned with climate change and sustainable aviation.

Career Development and Collaboration

This role offers excellent opportunities to:

• Build an international research profile
• Collaborate with leading European aerospace and climate research institutions

Publish in high-impact journals

• Develop transferable skills in modelling, data analysis, and interdisciplinary research
• Research outcomes from this project will directly support evidence-based decision-making in climate and transport policy.

Visa and Right to Work Information

This role may be eligible for sponsorship under the UK Skilled Worker route, subject to meeting the relevant points and salary requirements.

Applicants considering sponsorship should familiarise themselves with UK immigration guidance before applying.

Useful UK Government Guidance (External Links)

The following official resources may be helpful for applicants:

• Skilled Worker Visa – Eligibility and Points System
• UK Visas and Immigration – Immigration Rules Overview
• Right to Work in the UK – Employer and Applicant Guidance
• UK Climate Policy and Aviation Emissions
• Working as a Researcher in the UK – Employment Rights

Equality, Diversity and Inclusion

The University of Reading is committed to building a diverse and inclusive workforce. It proudly supports the Athena SWAN Charter, Race Equality Charter, and LGBT+ equality, and is a Disability Confident Employer (Level 2).

Applications for job-share, part-time, or flexible working arrangements are welcomed and will be considered in line with operational needs.

Further Information

Interviews are expected to take place in the week commencing 23 February 2026 and will include an open discussion with the panel, with time for candidate questions.