Research Fellow (Electronic Focus) in Particle Instruments & Diagnostics Research Group

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 develop electronics capability to support the development of new aerosol detection instruments.  In addition, you will develop an understanding of the physics, aerosol science, and engineering principles that underpin such instruments in order to effectively communicate requirements with the team, and to enhance our capability.

Skills and experience required

You will have had experience with developing electronics circuits (from conception to deployment) involving analogue and digital circuitry, preferably including the use of photosensors.  You will be able to implement firmware for microcontrollers and FPGAs.  You will be able to communicate with team members regarding requirements and performance, and conceive of novel solutions to complex problems. 

Qualifications required

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

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 047896 for another research role in the same team

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

Closing Date: 25 April 2023

Interview Date: To be confirmed 

Our vision is to transform lives: UH is committed to Equality, Diversity and Inclusion and building a diverse community. We welcome applications from suitably qualified and eligible candidates regardless of their protected characteristics, and recognise there are different ways applicants may achieve the criteria in this document. We offer a range of employee benefits including generous annual leave, flexible location opportunities within the UK, discounted Sports Village memberships and free Active Staff sessions, personal and professional development and family-friendly policies. #GoHerts

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