Postdoctoral Research Assistant(UK Visa Sponsorship)
Job Description
About the Role
The University of Reading invites applications for a Postdoctoral Research Assistant to join the Atmospheric Composition, Radiation and Climate research group within the Department of Meteorology. This post offers an exciting opportunity to contribute to cutting-edge international research on the non-COâ‚‚ climate effects of aviation, an area of growing scientific, industrial, and policy importance.
The position is funded for 34 months and forms part of the Horizon Europe project UNIC – Understanding Non-CO₂ Impact for deCarbonized Aviation, coordinated by ONERA (France) and involving a consortium of leading European research organisations.
Research Context
While aviation decarbonisation has largely focused on CO₂ emissions, non-CO₂ effects—including aerosols, contrails, and cirrus cloud modification—are increasingly recognised as critical drivers of aviation’s climate impact. These effects are currently a major focus of European research programmes and climate policy discussions.
UNIC aims to advance understanding of these processes through novel emission measurements, atmospheric chemistry modelling, and aerosol–cloud interaction studies, supporting evidence-based mitigation strategies for the aviation sector.
Key Responsibilities
In this role, you will focus on understanding how particulate matter emitted by aircraft engines interacts with natural cirrus clouds on timescales ranging from hours to days after emission. Your work will contribute directly to improving the scientific basis for assessing aviation’s climate footprint.
You will:
- Use numerical atmospheric models to investigate aerosol–cloud interactions
- Analyse and interpret simulation outputs related to aviation emissions
- Contribute to collaborative research across European partner institutions
- Present findings at international conferences and UNIC project meetings
- Publish results in high-impact, peer-reviewed scientific journals
About You
You will be a motivated early-career researcher who is keen to work at the interface of atmospheric science and climate policy. You will either hold, or be close to completing, a PhD in climate science, meteorology, or a closely related discipline.
You should be able to demonstrate:
- Experience using numerical models of the atmosphere 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 within an international team
Desirable (but not essential):
- Experience with aerosol–cloud interaction modelling
- Familiarity with Large Eddy Simulation (LES) approaches
Visa Information
Based on the relevant Standard Occupational Classification (SOC) code, this role may be eligible for Skilled Worker visa sponsorship. Applicants considering this route should ensure they meet the required points threshold prior to applying.
 UK Skilled Worker visa guidance
Interviews
Interviews are expected to take place during the week commencing 23 February 2026. The interview format will be conversational and will include time for you to ask questions about the role, the project, and the research environment.
Equality, Diversity & Inclusion
The University of Reading is committed to fostering an inclusive and supportive working environment. We are proud supporters of the Athena SWAN Charter, the Race Equality Charter, and LGBTQ+ equality, and we hold Disability Confident Employer (Level 2) status. Applications for job-share, part-time, and flexible working arrangements are welcomed and assessed in line with operational requirements.
Relevant Policy & External Resources
The research underpinning this role aligns closely with national and international climate and aviation policy priorities.
- UK aviation decarbonisation strategy
- UK climate change policy framework
- European aviation climate impacts (EASA)
- Horizon Europe research programme
- UK Net Zero and emissions policy
