Postdoctoral Research Associate in Space Security

The Role and Project

Applications are invited for a Postdoctoral Research Associate (PDRA) in Space Security. This position is made possible by an EPSRC NESCA funded project: ‘Geopolitical Analysis and Space Domain Awareness (SDA)’. The post-holder will conduct research with the Space Research Centre (SPARC) at Durham University, in partnership with 3S Northumbria (3SN), on space security and the geopolitical dimensions of Space Domain Awareness (SDA) as well as deliver co-developed publications and knowledge dissemination events.

The project is led by Dr Bleddyn Bowen at the Space Research Centre (SPARC, Durham University) and is delivered in partnership with an Alnwick/Newcastle-based SDA company, 3S Northumbria (3SN). This project seeks to build bridges between quantitative technical orbital tracking work and qualitative geopolitical/security policy net assessments to address gaps in technical and non-technical SDA capabilities, and how to address permanent uncertainty in SDA analysis.

Candidates with a background in space security and technology are particularly desirable for the role. Candidates with a record in interdisciplinary research at the cross-section of technology and security/policy will also be highly desirable for the role. Exceptional candidates without an explicit background in space security but with a background in security/intelligence/geopolitical research, an interest in their technological dimensions, and the potential to quickly develop space expertise as part of the role may be considered for the role.

The post-holder will need to address intent and uncertainty issues in SDA using political, strategic, and/or intelligence studies analysis methods and knowledge, and show a track record or interest in the technical dimensions of SDA or space sustainability. The post-holder will be expected to conduct research in cooperation with Dr Bleddyn Bowen at SPARC and Mr Ralph Dinsley and the 3S Northumbria team as required to develop at least 1 published article, 1 policy white paper, and other, smaller items of writing such as Policy Briefs. The post-holder will also be expected to support the organisation and facilitation of a high-level dissemination workshop host ed by SPARC and 3SN at the end of the project.

The post-holder must have English proficiency, qualifications in International Security/Intelligence Studies or closely related fields and preferably have an interest if not experience in relevant technical fields or space technologies/systems.

There will be a modest budget available for local travel between Durham, Newcastle, and Alnwick for the post-holder to facilitate cooperation between the SPARC and 3SN. The post-holder will be supported in academic and professional mentoring with Dr Bleddyn Bowen for the duration of the appointment. The post-holder will be expected to attend various meetings and project workshops in-person at the Durham University campus, and the 3SN offices in Newcastle and/or Alnwick, as appropriate.