Lecturer in Theoretical Particle Physics and Cosmology

Job description

The Department of Physics is seeking to appoint a Lecturer in Theoretical Particle Physics and Cosmology to help in the delivery and development of high-quality undergraduate and postgraduate programmes and to undertake high-quality original research in areas of theoretical physics related to particle physics and cosmology that fall within the scope of the TPPC Group in the Physics Department.  These include collider physics, the building and testing of particle theories beyond the Standard Model, astroparticle physics and dark matter and probes of general relativity and cosmology.  We will support the candidate to continue to develop a novel and internationally distinctive portfolio of personal research.

The Department of Physics at King’s College London is diverse, international and friendly with a positive atmosphere of collaboration and support between research groups.

The successful candidate must have developed a creative, original and distinctive research vision, a high-quality publication record and should have the potential to secure external research funding.  We are looking for researchers with the qualities to build a team, to function within the group and with the ability to provide high quality teaching.

We are looking for candidates who can demonstrate creativity, enthusiasm for group, intergroup and interdepartmental collaboration and qualities which will help maintain and enhance the culture of the Physics Department.

This post will be offered on an indefinite contract.

This is a full-time post - 100% full time equivalent.

Key responsibilities

• To contribute to the collaborative and positive ethos of the department, receiving support but also supporting others in our mutual development. 
• To contribute to developing and enhancing the research profile of the Department, Faculty and College, including establishing a track record of good quality publications and research funding. 
• To establish and manage a research group, as appropriate for the discipline. 
• To devise and instigate novel, collaborative research programmes within King’s and beyond. 
• To disseminate research findings, promote your scientific profile and develop new collaborations at national and international conferences, and as appropriate, to the general public including outreach programmes run by the Department, Faculty or College. 
• To bring your experience in progressing your own research, and advise/collaborate with others in the Department on grants/projects. 
• Identify and nurture the translation of research that will produce REF Impact statements, either in the coming or future REF exercises. 
• To contribute to the development of the taught programmes in the Department, including leading on a module within the Departmental portfolio of programmes. 
• Contribute to the ongoing development and design of the curriculum, in a manner that supports a research-led approach to student learning. 
• Review course content regularly and update as necessary, complying with College regulations. 
• Obtain your professional qualification for university teaching (e.g. Fellowship of the Higher Education Academy). 
• Supervise student projects in undergraduate and postgraduate taught programmes. 
• Participate in assessment and examination process as appropriate using a variety of methods and techniques and provide effective, timely and appropriate feedback to students to support their learning 
• Supervise and train postgraduate students to ensure their effective development. 
• Act as personal tutor to students as agreed with the Head of Department. 
• Act in departmental administrative or managerial roles within and on behalf of the Department, as agreed with the Head of Department. 
• Engage in professional development as appropriate. 
• To conduct risk assessments and take responsibility for the health and safety of students and researchers as required.
• Undertake any other reasonable duties that may be requested by the Head of Department.
• Ensuring an inclusive and supportive working and learning environment is a key part of the Department of Physics' equality and diversity strategy. In 2019 the Department of Physics was awarded Juno Champion status and an Athena SWAN Silver award, in recognition of its work to embed equality of opportunity in all areas of work and ensure that all members and prospective members of staff and students are treated solely on merit, ability and potential.  We want new staff to embrace and support our efforts in this area. 

The above list of responsibilities may not be exhaustive, and the post holder will be required to undertake such tasks and responsibilities as may reasonably be expected within the scope and grading of the post.

Skills, knowledge, and experience

Essential criteria 

1. PhD and postdoctoral experience in a relevant area of physics.  
2. To have developed a creative and distinctive research vision within the field, which complements existing research in the TPPC group and will bolster its international reputation of excellence. To be proactive in creating and developing interactions and collaborations with colleagues. 
3. Ability to teach relevant subjects at undergraduate and postgraduate level in the Department and to convey conceptual and complex ideas and information. 
4. Good presentational, organisational and administrative skills, highly effective oral and written communication skills.  Potential to provide academic leadership, to function within a team and to plan and prioritise workload.  

Desirable criteria 

1. Experience in teaching at undergraduate and postgraduate level 
2. Success in obtaining research grants