Research Associate in Spectroscopy for Nuclear Fusion

A Research Associate in Spectroscopy for Nuclear Fusion position is available for a minimum of 6 months from September 2024 to undertake research and development in novel instrumentation and analytical science related to nuclear fusion. The University of Manchester, the University of Leeds and Global Nuclear Security Partners are working as a team with funding from UKAEA to rapidly raise the TRL and demonstrate a comprehensive process to enrich lithium-6. The research focuses on bridging the gap between fundamental chemistry and process engineering by demonstrating process scale-up, online monitoring, lifecycle analysis and lifecycle costings, regulation, and product form and purity.

This position involves a new on-line spectroscopic method for the detection of Li-6 by a novel laser ablation – laser absorption spectroscopic approach. Feasibility measurements have already been carried out and the aim is to develop these into an on-line tool for application in a new separation technique for Li-6. This is based around LIBS (Laser induced breakdown spectroscopy).

You should have, or be working towards, a PhD or equivalent in physics, chemistry, chemical or electrical engineering or related discipline. Expertise in the application and development of optical instrumentation is essential. You should be capable of working under your own initiative and be able work effectively alongside project partners so excellent communication and organisational skills are also required. Experience in using analysis and data processing is essential. You will be familiar with the configuration of instrumentation and the requirements of setting up characterisation systems and their integration with a variety of deployment platforms. 

You will be joining a leading, dedicated group of research engineers in newly-refurbished and well-equipped laboratory space.

The Department of Chemical Engineering and the Photon Science Institute at the University of Manchester have a world-leading research activity in the area of instrumentation and analytical science.

The School of Engineering is committed to Athena SWAN principles to promote women in science.

What you will get in return:

• Fantastic market leading Pension scheme
• Excellent employee health and wellbeing services including an Employee Assistance Programme
• Exceptional starting annual leave entitlement, plus bank holidays
• Additional paid closure over the Christmas period
• Local and national discounts at a range of major retailers

As an equal opportunities employer we welcome applicants from all sections of the community regardless of age, sex, gender (or gender identity), ethnicity, disability, sexual orientation and transgender status.  All appointments are made on merit.

Our University is positive about flexible working – you can find out more here

Hybrid working arrangements may be considered.           

Please note that we are unable to respond to enquiries, accept CVs or applications from Recruitment Agencies.

Any recruitment enquiries from recruitment agencies should be directed to People.Recruitment@manchester.ac.uk.

Any CV’s submitted by a recruitment agency will be considered a gift.

Enquiries about the vacancy, shortlisting and interviews:

Name: Philip Martin

Email: philip.martin@manchester.ac.uk

General enquiries:

Email: People.recruitment@manchester.ac.uk

Technical support:

https://jobseekersupport.jobtrain.co.uk/support/home

This vacancy will close for applications at midnight on the closing date

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