Research Assistant/Associate

This post is full time, and has funding for up to 10 months.

The University of Glasgow is seeking to appoint a Research Assistant/Associate within the School of Physics & Astronomy to contribute to/make a leading contribution to the Institute for Gravitational Research’s (IGR) STFC (Science and Technology Facilities Council) funded research theme in Interferometry, specifically the commissioning of a cryogenic suspended interferometer prototype and laser stabilisation systems. This project will address critical research and development challenges for cryogenic upgrades to ground-based gravitational wave detectors.

The is an ambitious project aligned with the research objectives of the international LIGO Scientific Collaboration. The project has input from many members of the IGR, you will be expected to integrate with the existing research team, report on your work, communicate with the group and the wider international collaboration and lead research lines within the theme. The successful candidate will be expected to lead areas of the research and show research independence in development of a suspension system for silicon test mass optics operating at cryogenic temperatures with low thermal noise and high seismic isolation, and commissioning of the laser systems that will be used in conjunction with the suspended optics. The candidate will also be expected to engage with the wider research community. The research is expected to push forward the practical understanding and knowledge of these complex systems and work towards a full technological demonstration required for future gravitational wave detectors. The role therefore requires expert knowledge of suspension and laser systems for gravitational wave detections as well as strong modelling and practical skill sets.

To be considered for an appointment at Grade 7, you must be able to perform the duties as listed for a Research Assistant position with a higher degree of independence, leadership and responsibility, particularly in relation to planning, funding, collaborating and publishing research, and mentoring colleagues. You must also have, or be about to obtain, a Scottish Credit and Qualification Framework level 12 (PhD) or alternatively possess the equivalent in professional qualifications and experience, with experience of personal development in a similar or related role(s).

For informal enquiries or further information about the project, please contact Dr. Andrew Spencer (Andrew.Spencer@glasgow.ac.uk).

For more information and to apply online: my.corehr.com/pls/uogrecruit/erq_jobspec_version_4.jobspec?p_id=153772

The University of Glasgow has a responsibility to ensure that all employees are eligible to live and work in the UK.  If you require a Skilled Worker visa to work in the UK, you will be required to meet the eligibility requirements of the visa route to be assigned a Certificate of Sponsorship.

Please note that this post may be eligible to be sponsored under the Skilled Worker visa route if tradeable points can be used under the Skilled Worker visa rules. For more information please visit: www.gov.uk/skilled-worker-visa

It is the University of Glasgow’s mission to foster an inclusive climate, which ensures equality in our working, learning, research and teaching environment.

We strongly endorse the principles of Athena SWAN, including a supportive and flexible working environment, with commitment from all levels of the organisation in promoting gender equality.

The University of Glasgow, charity number SC004401.

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