Research Associate in Mars Glaciology

OverviewThe University of Sheffield invites applications for the Research Associate in Mars Glaciology. The role supports a Royal Society University Research Fellowship grant (2025-2033) led by Frances Butcher and titled “Unlocking Martian Climate Archives: The Glaciological Groundwork for the First Ice Cores from Mars.” The project studies buried water-ice glaciers in Mars’ mid-latitudes to understand ice flow histories and climate archives through high-resolution orbital data and numerical modelling.ResponsibilitiesPerform a global survey of orbital images of mid-latitude glaciers on Mars to produce a database of natural incisions (e.g. impact craters, sublimation pits, gullies) revealing glacier-internal layering and structure.Contribute towards project elements aligned with your strengths: Numerical ice flow modelling (e.g., using ISSM) to understand how ice flow history influences configurations and ages of ice layers;Develop and evaluate automated approaches to mapping and classifying glacier-surface structures and other ice-related morphologies (e.g., training and assessing deep learning models in ESRI ArcGIS Pro or equivalent).Collaborate with international project partners and connect analyses with ground-penetrating radar investigations using SHARAD on Mars Reconnaissance Orbiter.Use research findings to identify targets for new data acquisitions by active orbital instruments.Disseminate findings through high-quality scientific publications, conference presentations, workshops, and public outreach activities as planned within the project.Stay up to date with Mars exploration strategy and contribute to planned project workshops to guide current and future Mars missions.Seek and engage with training to support career development; project funding includes support for training needs.Support the CryoMars research network activities, including helping organise biennial CryoMars conferences (and pre-conference workshops) in 2027 and 2029.Carry out other duties commensurate with the grade and remit of the post.QualificationsEssential: PhD in a relevant discipline (or relevant experience).Essential: Experience in glaciology or Mars geomorphology; ability to apply specialist techniques in remote sensing.Essential: Knowledge of numerical ice flow modelling and/or machine learning for image/terrain analysis; experience in writing publications.Essential: Excellent planning and organisational skills; clear scientific thinking; ability to develop and pursue new ideas.Essential: Effective interpersonal and communication skills for presenting research findings and collaborations.Essential: Ability to manage time and work independently to meet objectives and milestones.Essential: Proficiency in relevant programming languages (e.g., MATLAB, Python).Essential: Experience with ISSM or similar numerical ice flow models and/or deep learning in ESRI ArcGIS or similar software.Desirable: Proficiency with GIS, HPC, and related software; experience disseminating research to non-academic stakeholders.Salary and BenefitsGrade 7; Salary £38,784–£41,064. Full-time, fixed-term for 3 years, start 01 April 2026 and end 31 March 2029. Benefits include generous leave, pension, flexible working, discounts, development opportunities, and family-friendly policies.How to Apply and More InformationFor informal enquiries, contact Frances Butcher (Project PI) at f.butcher@sheffield.ac.uk. The project page: sheffield.ac.uk/geography-planning.Next StepsSelection is expected in late January 2026, with interviews including a short presentation. If adjustments are needed to participate in the recruitment process, contact gpl-ops@sheffield.ac.uk.Our CommitmentWe are a Disability Confident Employer and value a diverse community of staff and students. Our vision and benefits are described at sheffield.ac.uk/vision and in the benefits page: sheffield.ac.uk/jobs/benefits. #J-18808-Ljbffr