Postdoctoral Research Associate in CubeSat Design, Build, and Test

ABOUT THE ROLE
 
Applications are invited for a 23-month postdoctoral research position in the area of small satellite (CubeSat) engineering, design, build and test. The successful candidate will work in the Department of Mathematics Physics and Electrical Engineering at Northumbria University, within the Northumbria Space Technology Laboratory. The candidate will work within a team preparing an in-orbit technology demonstration mission, for a novel laser communications system payload for CubeSats. For further information about the Northumbria Space Technology Laboratory see here: https://www.northumbria.ac.uk/nstl

This position is funded by UK Space Agency with grant reference number (UKSAG22_0042). The project focuses on the design, testing, and build of hardware and software for two 6U CubeSats to launch into Low Earth Orbit and demonstrate the function of a free space optical link between CubeSats. The project is led by Northumbria University and includes partners from Durham University, e2E Group and Smart Sentry SMS, as well as support from Lockheed Martin UK Space. The overall aim of the role is to lead the development of the laser-based optical communication payload, including design, simulation, testing and building of flight models including mechanical, electronic, and software interfaces with the CubeSat bus.

The ideal candidate should have experience and skills relating to CubeSat bus development. Therefore, a strong undergraduate degree in physical sciences or engineering, with experience in working within a laboratory environment, is essential. Candidates should have a PhD in physics or engineering or a track record of professional experience in aerospace and space technology research projects. Experience programming in C and with real time operating systems and / or experience of other similar space mission projects is essential. Experience with CAD and mechanical, thermal and orbital modelling of CubeSats in realistic atmospheres is desired. The role will include acceptance testing and assembly of parts and so the ability to design and follow work flows that test parts to meet specified requirements is also important. Environmental and system level tests of CubeSats will also be part of the project and so experience with or knowledge of using vibration, thermal vacuum and radio testing equipment is desirable.

For informal enquiries about this post, please contact Dr Robert Wicks on robert.wicks@northumbria.ac.uk 

Further information about the requirements of the role is available in the person specification.

Closing Date:  31 March 2023
 
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