Research Fellow in Particle Instruments & Diagnostics Research Group

SBU/Department:  School of Physics, Engineering, and Computer Science, Department of Physics, Astronomy, and Mathematics 

FTE: 1.0 FTE (working 37 hours a week)

Duration of Contract: Fixed Term 2 years, with potential to extend

Salary: UH7 £36,333 to £43,155 depending on skills and experience

Location: College Lane Campus, Hatfield

The Particle Instrument & Diagnostics (PID) research group conceives, develops, and exploits instruments for the detection and classification of microscopic airborne particulates. We do this by introducing individual airborne particles (usually entrained in an airflow) to a focused laser beam. The scattered laser light is then collected and digitized by some combination of photosensitive detectors, analogue and digital electronics. Various signal and image processing techniques are then employed (either embedded into the electronics, or in post-analysis) to derive key parameters about individual particles (e.g., size, shape, orientation) and the airflow as a whole (e.g., concentration, PMx, presence of particular particle type).

This position is designed to develop new techniques and expertise within the research group. You will be assigned projects based on your expertise, interests, and the funded projects within the group. We are particularly interested in people with electronics, optics, and aerosol science expertise.

Main duties and responsibilities

You will work on various funded projects within the PID group, based on your expertise and interests. You will assist in delivery and publication of our results. For example, you may work on developing experiments and procedures for characterizing and intercomparing OPCs; or characterizing new prototype OPCs or bioaerosol monitors; or develop a new optical system for collecting scattered light from individual airborne particles. You will be expected to gain expertise in the full range of work undertaken within the group, and to investigate new techniques under the supervision of senior group members.

Skills and experience required

You will have had experience with developing and/or using instrumentation for atmospheric measurement, bio-particle detection, or respirable hazards. You will work alongside the PID group to develop expertise and understanding of both the principles of aerosol measurement, and the requirements of the wider field in which the instruments are deployed. You will be able to communicate with team members regarding analysis and performance, and conceive of novel solutions to complex problems. 

Qualifications required

Minimum of an undergraduate honours degree at 2:2 (or equivalent) in a relevant discipline, plus a PhD (or equivalent) in a relevant field, or within 3 months of viva, or equivalent experience.

Please view the job description and person specification for a full list of the duties and essential criteria. Please attach a personal statement showing clearly how your skills and experience match the Person Specification.

An appointment to this role may require an Academic Technology Approval Scheme (ATAS) certificate.

Please also see vacancy 050595 for another research role in the same team

Contact Details/Informal Enquiries: Assoc. Prof. Chris Stopford, Head of Particle Instruments & Diagnostics Research Group, c.stopford@herts.ac.uk.

Closing Date:  25 April 2023

Interview Date: To be confirmed

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