Minkwan Kim

This PhD project at the University of Southampton, supervised by Professor Minkwan Kim and Professor Andrea Cammarano, addresses the critical challenge of sterilising narrow channels in medical devices and complex space instruments. The research aims to develop an advanced cold plasma sterilisation system capable of effectively decontaminating lumened instruments, which are notoriously difficult to sterilise using conventional methods. The project is highly interdisciplinary, integrating principles from biomedical engineering, aerospace engineering, electrical engineering, and microbiology. Students will join the Faculty of Engineering and Physical Sciences, working within a collaborative environment that fosters innovation in medical and space technologies. The research will involve designing, prototyping, and testing plasma-based sterilisation systems, with a focus on ensuring safety, reliability, and efficacy for both healthcare and aerospace applications. The project will also explore the microbiological aspects of sterilisation, evaluating the effectiveness of plasma technology against a range of contaminants. Applicants should have a strong background in engineering, physics, or related fields, and demonstrate interest in biomedical or aerospace applications. The position offers access to state-of-the-art facilities and the opportunity to work alongside leading experts in the field. While funding details are not specified, candidates are encouraged to inquire about potential scholarships or studentships. The application deadline is 31 August 2026. Prospective students should prepare a CV, academic transcripts, and a statement of interest, and apply through the University of Southampton's online portal. For further information, contacting the supervisors is recommended.

The University of Southampton is seeking a motivated Research Fellow to join Professor Minkwan Kim's team in Astronautics. The successful candidate will work on a cutting-edge project focused on developing a scalable high-power inductively coupled plasma (ICP) torch for atmospheric re-entry simulations. This research sits at the intersection of plasma technology and space sustainability, offering the opportunity to collaborate with the UK Space Agency and industry partners. Key research areas include high-enthalpy plasma wind tunnel experiments, high-power plasma thruster design, and magnetohydrodynamic (MHD) flow modelling or hypersonic non-equilibrium processes. The project aims to advance the understanding and application of plasma technologies in the context of atmospheric re-entry, which is critical for the future of space exploration and sustainability. Applicants should possess a PhD in physics, aerospace engineering, or a closely related field, with demonstrated expertise in the relevant research areas. Experience with experimental plasma setups, thruster design, and advanced modelling techniques is highly desirable. The position offers the chance to work in a dynamic research environment at the University of Southampton, a leading institution in astronautics and engineering research. While specific funding details are not provided, research fellow positions at the University of Southampton are typically salaried and may be supported by project grants. Interested candidates should apply via the university's eRecruit system, following the registration and application submission process outlined on the official job portal. For more information and to apply, visit the provided application link. This is an excellent opportunity for researchers passionate about plasma technology, space sustainability, and advanced aerospace engineering.

The University of Southampton, under the supervision of Professor Minkwan Kim, is seeking a motivated Research Fellow to join a dynamic team in the field of astronautics. The research focuses on developing a scalable high-power inductively coupled plasma (ICP) torch for atmospheric re-entry simulations, a project at the forefront of plasma technology and space sustainability. The successful candidate will have the opportunity to collaborate with the UK Space Agency and industry partners, contributing to advancements in plasma wind tunnel experiments and high-power plasma thruster design. Key research areas include high-enthalpy plasma wind tunnel experiments, high-power plasma thruster design, and desirable experience in magnetohydrodynamic (MHD) flow modelling or hypersonic non-equilibrium. The position is ideal for candidates with a PhD in astronautics, aerospace engineering, physics, or a closely related discipline, and who possess strong experimental and analytical skills. Experience working with industry or space agencies is considered an asset. The University of Southampton is a leading institution in aerospace and astronautics research, offering a collaborative environment and access to state-of-the-art facilities. The project is funded in partnership with the UK Space Agency and industry, providing a unique opportunity to work on real-world challenges in space technology and sustainability. While specific funding details are not provided, the role is a paid postdoctoral research position. Interested applicants should visit the University of Southampton jobs portal and search for the Research Fellow in Astronautics position to submit their application. The application should include a CV and cover letter detailing relevant experience in plasma technology, astronautics, and related research areas. The position may no longer be available, so candidates are encouraged to check the current status on the university's website.