Guidance

Call for Applications: Membership of the UK Space Frontiers 2035 Thematic Panels

Published 3 October 2025

1. Introduction 

The UK Space Frontiers 2035 initiative is a joint pilot programme by the UK Space Agency, the Science and Technology Facilities Council (STFC) and the Department for Science, Innovation and Technology (DSIT). Its purpose is to deliver a community-endorsed, ten-year roadmap to steer the nation’s space-science ambitions across astronomy, planetary science and heliophysics. 

The initiative will build on international models such as the US Decadal Survey and ESA’s Voyage 2050 planning cycle, ensuring that the UK invests strategically in the most compelling opportunities for leadership and impact in space science. 

To support this work, three Thematic Panels are being established to review community submissions and provide detailed, evidence-based advice to the Steering Committee. We now invite applications for membership of these Panels. 

2. Role of the Thematic Panels 

The Thematic Panels will: 

• study white papers and other community inputs within their thematic area

• identify the most compelling scientific questions, opportunities and enabling capabilities

• highlight gaps, challenges, and areas of UK strength

• commission technical studies, via the Space Frontiers Technical Team, to inform feasibility, costing and risk considerations

• engage in structured panel deliberations and community workshops

• submit a consolidated, evidence-based report to the Steering Committee

The Panels will operate under the authority of the Steering Committee. They will not make funding decisions, commit the UK Space Agency, STFC or DSIT to specific programmes, or review missions already approved. 

3. Structure and Membership 

Three Panels will be convened, which are:

• Astronomy & Astrophysics (Astro) - this includes fundamental physics and exoplanets 

• Planetary Science and Solar System Exploration (Planetary) 

• Heliophysics (Helio) 

Each Panel will consist of: 

• a Chair (appointed by the Steering Committee)

• a Deputy Chair or Rapporteur (optional)

• approximately 5 members with a balance of expertise

Members are expected to reflect diversity across discipline, institution, geography, and academic rank. 

4. Expertise Sought 

Applications are invited from researchers and technologists with expertise in areas including, but not limited to: 

• astronomy and astrophysics

• planetary science and exploration (including Mars, the Moon and other Solar System bodies)

• heliophysics, including solar, heliospheric, terrestrial magnetospheric and fundamental space plasma physics, and space weather

• enabling technologies for missions, instrumentation and payloads

• cross-cutting areas such as fundamental physics in space

Experience of working at the science–technology interface, international collaboration, or mission development will be considered an advantage. 

5. Expectations and Time Commitment 

Panel members are expected to: 

• review and comment on white paper submissions (November 2025 – January 2026)

• participate actively in Panel meetings and workshops (see indicative schedule below)

• declare all relevant conflicts of interest and recuse themselves as required

• follow the professional code of conduct observed across UK Space Agency and STFC advisory bodies

Indicative schedule of activity: 

• November 2025 – Panel set-up and orientation 

• November–December 2025 – Initial review of white papers; commissioning of technical studies 

• January–February 2026 – Community workshops (in-person) 

• April 2026 – Panel consolidation meeting 

• May 2026 – Input on draft Steering Committee roadmap 

The estimated commitment is the equivalent of 10–12 days in total spread over the period November 2025 – May 2026. Travel and subsistence costs for in-person meetings will be covered. 

6. Tenure 

Appointments will run from October 2025 until June 2026, or until completion of the UK Space Frontiers 2035 prioritisation process. 

7. Application Process 

Applicants should submit: 

• a short CV (maximum 2 pages)

• and a statement of interest (maximum 1 page) setting out relevant expertise, motivation, and preferred Thematic Panel

Applications should be sent as a single PDF to spacefrontiers@ukspaceagency.gov.uk by 5 November 2025, 5pm BST.

Appointments will be made by the Steering Committee, supported by the Delivery Team. Applicants will be informed of the outcome in late November 2025. 

8. Further Information 

Enquiries about the process may be directed to the Frontiers Delivery Team at spacefrontiers@ukspaceagency.gov.uk.