Senior Research Fellow - Space Technology

As a Senior Research Fellow in Launch and Space Propulsion Technology, you will play a key role in strengthening Kingston University’s research translation and knowledge exchange (KE) activity, building on the University’s unique contribution to the UK National Space Strategy.

You will bring a substantial research and KE track record in in space propulsion technology, including attracting external income and making a significant contribution to the space propulsion technology research and KE field through your activities.

This role will focus on translating applied and academic space propulsion technology research into industry-ready, policy-relevant, and societally impactful outcomes. Working with academic colleagues, industry partners, public sector organisations, and SMEs, you will:

- Accelerate space propulsion technology research translation and adoption

- Develop and deliver new external partnerships and income-generating activity

- Enhance Kingston University’s national profile as a leading contributor to the UK National Space Strategy specifically with a focus on supporting sovereign launch capabilities

You will be accountable for delivering measurable research and KE translation outcomes, including securing external funding, generating high-impact outputs, and building strategic partnerships.

The Person

We are seeking an experienced and driven professional in launch and space propulsion technology with a strong track record in research and knowledge exchange, including success in securing external funding.

You will hold a PhD in launch and space propulsion technology (or a closely related discipline) or have equivalent experience. You will demonstrate significant experience in independent research and knowledge exchange, with a proven ability to secure external funding and deliver applied projects.

Experience in translating technical research into real-world, commercial, or policy contexts is essential. You will also have excellent communication and stakeholder engagement skills, with experience working with industry, government, or SMEs.

You will be collaborative, proactive, and impact-focused, with the ability to lead projects, build partnerships, and deliver measurable outcomes in a dynamic environment.

Directorate/Function

This role sits within Academic Services, part of Kingston University’s Knowledge Exchange and Research Institutes (KERIs), which drive the University’s mission to translate research into real-world impact.

The Cyber, Engineering and Digital Technologies KERI brings together over 60 academics alongside industry partners, policymakers, and communities to tackle strategic innovation challenges and deliver meaningful economic, social, and environmental impact.

Building on Kingston’s leading contribution to the UK National Space Strategy, the team is at the forefront of launch and space propulsion innovation - driving national priorities in skills, research impact, and economic growth, supported by cutting-edge facilities and strategic partnerships across the UK space sector.

You will join a highly collaborative and interdisciplinary environment that delivers research excellence and drives societal impact at scale.

Join us and play a key role in shaping the future of launch and space propulsion technology research and its real-world impact.

Further information

This is a fixed term position funded until 31 July 2027 in the first instance, with a starting salary of £50,1060 per annum.

Interviews are expected to be held on 20 August 2026.

We are looking for the successful candidate to start as soon as possible. 

For informal enquiries, please contact Prof. Jean-Christophe Nebel Director of the Cyber, Engineering and Digital Technologies KERI.

Bring your true self, expertise, and passion to Kingston where we are continuing to strive to build a university where authentic inclusion and belonging is at its heart. Every one of our staff and students’ identities, backgrounds and diverse experiences makes us who we are - so harness and embrace yours by applying today. We welcome applications from Black, Asian and Minority Ethnic backgrounds, LGBTQ+ communities and those with disabilities.

We are a place-based organisation, proud of our location in Kingston and the civic role we play in our community. Our campuses inspire collaborative, innovative and creative communities. Being present on campus is important to us because it helps us to create a sense of belonging for both our staff and students. Therefore, staff are expected to be on campus for the majority of their working week.

Candidates must be able to demonstrate their eligibility to work in the UK in accordance with the Immigration, Asylum and Nationality Act 2006. Where required, this may include entry clearance or continued leave to remain under the Points Based Immigration Scheme. 

To apply click on ‘Apply Now’. If, for accessibility reasons, you need to apply in an alternative format, please email jobs@kingston.ac.uk or call the HR Shared Services team on 020 8417 3118.