The Department of Physics at Imperial College London seeks an outstanding academic to join us as an Assistant Professor or Associate Professor in Gravitational Wave Physics.
Closing date: 30 September 2026, 23:59 hours Midnight BST
It is anticipated that this appointment would commence after 1 January 2027.
Gravitational wave (GW) physics has opened an entirely new observational window into the Universe – enabling fundamental tests of gravity, probing the fundamental laws of nature, properties of compact objects, and offering unprecedented constraints on cosmology. With next-generation observatories including LIGO, the Einstein Telescope, LISA, NanoGrav/PTA, and the Simons Observatory either reaching new sensitivities or coming online imminently, the field is at an extraordinary inflection point.
The Department of Physics at Imperial has internationally leading expertise in theoretical and experimental physics, spanning astrophysics, cosmology, gravity, fundamental physics and precision measurement. It is consistently ranked among the very best in the UK and worldwide. This is an exceptional opportunity to extend the existing expertise at Imperial by building your own world-class research group, lead Imperial’s engagement with major international GW collaborations, and inspire the next generation of physicists.
We are seeking an outstanding academic who is committed to excellence in research, teaching, and academic citizenship. We welcome applications from candidates across the full breadth of gravitational wave physics, spanning theoretical, computational, observational and experimental approaches.
You will be able to demonstrate:
- A PhD in Physics or in a closely related field, or equivalent.
- A strong research record with publications of outstanding quality.
- A clear plan to build or further develop an internationally leading research programme that enhances the Department’s profile.
- Commitment to high-quality teaching and supervision of students.
- Excellent communication, collaboration, and leadership skills appropriate to your career stage.
- At the Assistant Professor level, you will have clear potential to develop an international reputation in Gravitational Wave Physics.
- At the Associate Professor level, you will have an established profile and emerging international recognition in Gravitational Wave Physics.
Further information
Closing date: 30 September 2026, 23:59 hours Midnight BST
It is anticipated that this appointment would commence after 1 January 2027.
The Department of Physics is part of the Faculty of Natural Sciences at Imperial College London. We are an internationally renowned Physics department, which enables us to create groups of international standing, and with sufficient scale and critical mass, that they influence the research agenda and attract the world’s top researchers. The Department is structured into five Research Communities that drive new research directions: Light, Matter, Physics of Particles, Physics of the Universe, and Space, Plasma and Climate.
The Universe Community hosts world-leading researchers across cosmology, astrophysics, gravitational and fundamental physics, and this appointment represents a strategic investment in a priority growth area for the Department. Staff can associate with multiple Communities, providing the flexibility needed to tackle multidisciplinary challenges.
Imperial College is committed to equality of opportunity, eliminating discrimination and fostering an inclusive workplace culture. The
Department of Physics is also proud to hold an Athena SWAN Silver Award, recognising our commitment to fostering a supportive, inclusive, and thriving community. We value the strength that comes from diverse perspectives, and we warmly welcome applications from talented people of all backgrounds, and particularly those underrepresented in physics, to join our vibrant community supported by initiatives that promote collaboration, inclusivity, and professional development.
Find out more about our inclusive environment.
If you would like more information or have specific queries about the role, please contact: Professor Stefan Söldner-Rembold, Head of Department – s.soldner-rembold(at)imperial.ac.uk or Professor Claudia de Rham, Head of the Universe Community and Professor of Theoretical Physics – c.de-rham(at)imperial.ac.uk.
If you have any questions about the application process, please contact the Physics Knowledge Hub – physicsconnect(at)imperial.ac.uk.
Please visit Description | Jobs | Imperial College London Job Number NAT02262 for more information or to apply for the position.