Research Fellow in laboratory based coherent x-ray imaging

About us

An exciting opportunity has arisen within the UCL Advanced X-ray Imaging (AXIm) group for a two year postdoctoral position.

We are looking for a talented and enthusiastic x-ray researcher to assist in the development of x-ray near-field ptychographic imaging, an imaging technique conceived and, until now only carried out at, synchrotron facilities, to the laboratory environment. The scientific case is to apply the near field ptychography to brain imaging, in collaboration with CUBRIC and CNR and Diamond Light Sour! ce. You will work in a dynamic environment within a collaborative and innovative team.

About the role

The main duties and responsibilities of the successful candidate will be:

• Creating new x-ray imaging capabilities based on near-field ptychography for applications in brain imaging.
• Learning how to use ptychographic retrieval codes and further adapting it to incorporate the new capabilities listed above (in collaboration with Diamond Light Source).
• Using these tools and knowledge to design new experiments and imaging prototypes.
• Characterizing and commissioning new prototypes.
• Using the prototypes to collect data of brain tissue/brain-mimicking phantoms.
• Performing data analysis, including in collaboration with CUBRIC, CNR and Diamond experts.
• Writing reports to the funders and scientific papers.

The above activities will take place at UCL, but participation in experiments at synchrotrons or other x-ray facilities is expected. Specific locations will be discussed with the line manager (Dr Cipiccia) on a case-by-case basis.

This is a fixed-term role until 22nd August 2025 in the first instance.

Appointment at Grade 7, Sp Pt 29 (£39,508) is dependent upon having been awarded a PhD; if this is not the case, initial appointment will be at Grade 6B (salary £35,702- £37,548 per annum) (inclusive of London Allowance) with payment at Grade 7 (£39,508) being backdated to the date of final submission of the PhD Thesis.'

This role meets the eligibility requirements for a skilled worker certificate of sponsorship or a global talent visa under UK Visas and Immigration legislation. Therefore, UCL welcomes applications from international applicants who require a visa.

This role is eligible for hybrid working with a minimum of 50% on site.

This appointment is subject to UCL Terms and Conditions of Service for Research and Professional Services Staff. Please visit https://www.ucl.ac.uk/human-resources/conditions-service-research-teaching-and-professional-services-staff for more information.

About you

The selected candidate will have:

• a solid background and a PhD in physics or equivalent, theoretical and experimental knowledge of x-ray imaging and experience in the analysis of x-ray data.
• Familiarity with assembling/testing imaging systems and previous knowledge/experience with X-ray coherent diffraction imaging.
• Computer programming skills: proficiency in Python (or Matlab). Proven ability to analyse complex datasets.
• Communication skills and professionalism when dealing with external collaborators.

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