Senior Researcher in Technosignature Research (Breakthrough Listen)
Lead strategic development and technical computing for Breakthrough Listen’s SETI research at Oxford’s Department of Physics.
Best for:Best for senior researchers with expertise in SETI, radio astronomy, and technical computing, seeking to lead interdisciplinary research and strategic development in a globally recognized initiative.
Overview
This position offers an opportunity to shape the future of Breakthrough Listen, the world’s leading SETI initiative, by developing research strategies, managing advanced computing infrastructure, and fostering global collaborations. Based at the University of Oxford’s Department of Physics, the successful candidate will oversee high-performance computing (HPC), CUDA, and FPGA technologies while representing Breakthrough Listen internationally. The role demands a senior academic profile with expertise in radio astronomy, signal processing, and machine learning, alongside proven experience in research leadership, stakeholder engagement, and securing funding. The two-year fixed-term position is ideal for researchers with a track record in interdisciplinary SETI science and a vision for advancing the field.
What you'll do
- Develop and implement a long-term research strategy for Breakthrough Listen, including establishing research priorities and managing stakeholder relationships.
- Lead the management and development of Breakthrough Listen’s computing infrastructure, focusing on HPC, CUDA, and FPGA technologies within the SKA Lab.
- Represent Breakthrough Listen internationally, engaging with industry, research councils, and academic institutions to build global collaborations.
- Present research findings at major international conferences and secure research funding for future initiatives.
- Chair key committees and oversee the recruitment, management, and development of a dedicated research group.
- Oversee budget management and produce high-quality proposals, reports, and scientific publications.
Requirements
Degree required: PhD/DPhil in a relevant field such as Physics, Astronomy, Computer Science, or Engineering
Language: English; proficiency required for academic and stakeholder communication
Instruction: English
Publications: High-quality publications in top scientific venues expected
- Substantial experience in developing and implementing research strategies
- Proven ability to recruit, manage, and oversee staff
- Experience in overseeing budgets and securing research funding
- Strong background in producing high-quality proposals, reports, and scientific publications
- Expertise in high-performance computing (HPC), CUDA, and FPGA technologies
- Excellent communication and interpersonal skills for engaging with diverse stakeholders
- No explicit eligibility restrictions mentioned beyond the PhD requirement
Funding & terms
How to apply
Deadline: 2026-11-09T12:00:00 (Europe/London)
Applicants must upload a CV and Supporting Statement via the university’s recruitment portal. Two referee letters must be requested and submitted directly to Leanne O’Donnell by the application deadline.
- CV
- Supporting Statement
- Details of two referees (letters to be submitted by referees to Leanne O’Donnell)
Contact
Therese Docherty· Informal Query Contact
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