Senior Research Fellow - Space Technology

About the role

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 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.

Required Qualifications and Experience

• PhD in launch and space propulsion technology or a closely related discipline, or equivalent experience.
• 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.
• Excellent communication and stakeholder engagement skills, with experience working with industry, government, or SMEs.
• Collaborative, proactive, and impact focused, with the ability to lead projects, build partnerships, and deliver measurable outcomes in a dynamic environment.

Environment and Team

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.

Remuneration & Tenure

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.

Contact

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