Notice

Information about making a nomination

Published 1 May 2024

The UK Space Agency seeks nominations for membership of its Space Programme Review Panels (SPRPs).  

The SPRP panel is responsible for: 

• advising the UK Space Agency Space Science Programme on the UK proposal to participate in the development of space science missions as external experts
• confirming the feasibility and cost effectiveness of the proposed UK contributions to the science instruments and/or data processing capabilities
• establishing how they interface with other national contributions and the European Space Agency (ESA)
• considering whether key milestones and associated risks are understood and how any changes to the science mission scope could affect affordability and value for money
• ensuring the overall work plan and cost model represents the best value for money for essential activities and associated resource only, considering funding constraints into the account and exploring savings options to demonstrate efficiency

1. Who we are looking for 

We require a broad range of specialisms and seek new members to support the Space Science Programme from June 2024 and complement the review panel’s already wide level of expertise from academia. It is expected that candidates will have a background related to one or more of the following disciplines: astronomy astrophysics and/or planetary science.  

It would also be beneficial if candidates can demonstrate expertise in an engineering capacity as there is significant UK involvement in hardware development across missions.  

Frequency of SPRP panel review meetings would not be expected to be more than quarterly or biannual but would depend on project requirements.  

These meetings are designed to assess and review progress of UK involvement is ESA space science missions.  

SPRP panel meeting duration is usually one day long and will require preparation beforehand to review submitted documentation from the relevant science mission project team, with follow up actions when/if required. We offer remuneration for providing expert advice as well as covering travel and subsistence costs where appropriate.  

SPRP panel members are required to sign a conflict of interest and confidentiality agreement.  

We welcome applicants from diverse backgrounds and career stages to complement our review panels. We strive for an inclusive culture at the UK Space Agency in line with the UK Space Agency People Strategy. We value difference and diversity, not only because we believe it is the right thing to do, but because it will help us be more innovative and make better decisions.  

2. How to apply  

Suitable candidates are expected to be based in the UK and demonstrate scientific expertise in a space-related discipline. 

Nominations should be made by email, no later than 4pm on 24 May 2024, to [email protected] with the subject line: SPRP Nomination June 2024, and include the following information: 

• name  
• organisation 
• research/science interests 
• brief summary (200-300 words) of relevant experience  

It is also desirable (but not essential) that candidates have: 

• experience of working in similar advisory positions for government or other public bodies (eg, government agencies, research councils, other funding bodies.) 

To submit a nomination (either for yourself or for a colleague) or for more information about the SPRP panels and what membership entails, please contact the Space Science mailbox: [email protected].

3. Call timeline  

• application deadline: 4pm on 24 May 2024
• application review: week commencing 10 June 2024
• outcomes shared with applicant: week commencing 24 June 2024  

Please note: timeline dates are only an estimate and can change