Research Fellow/Associate in Raman Spectroscopy (FTC)

Location: University Park

Salary: £31,637 to £46,735 per annum, depending on skills and experience (minimum £35,116 with relevant PhD). Salary progression beyond this scale is subject to performance.

We seek to recruit a Research Associate/Fellow to join our team developing a groundbreaking technique based on autofluorescence (AF) imaging and Raman spectroscopy for detection of positive lymph nodes during breast cancer surgery. The instrument will allow surgeons to check the sentinel lymph nodes during the first surgery, while the patient is still in the operating room, and if needed, remove the lymph nodes in the armpit without delay. This will impact on patient care as currently positive lymph nodes are detected by histology, but requires 1-2 weeks, which means patients may need a second surgery for axillary node clearance.

In this project, we will build a unique combined system using an optimised AF scanning procedure that integrates Raman measurements to analyse lymph node biopsies within 10 minutes and machine learning algorithms to deliver quantitative diagnosis without destroying the samples. The AF-Raman prototype will be integrated and tested in the operating theatre at the Nottingham Breast Institute.

This project is based on a long-term research collaboration between the Biophotonics Group (School of Physics and Astronomy, University of Nottingham), Breast Institute (Nottingham University Hospitals), Department of Mathematics (Royal Holloway University of London) and RiverD International. This project is an excellent opportunity for inter-disciplinary training in biomedical applications of Raman spectroscopy, from instrument design and development, clinical integration/validation, to translations (regulatory/commercialisation).

This post is offered on fixed-term contract, full time basis (36,25 hours/week).

What we offer:

• A world-class research environment including state of the Raman spectroscopy and machine learning.
• A supportive environment for researchers as signatories of the Researcher Development Concordat (www.vitae.ac.uk/policy/concordat).
• Opportunities to produce high-quality publications.
• Development of multidisciplinary skills in Raman spectroscopy, machine lerning, and clinical translation of biophotonics technologies.
• Collaboration opportunities with internationally leading researchers in machine learning and breast cancer surgery, as well as companies interested in our project results and partnering in spin-off initiatives.
• Travel opportunities to visit international partners and attend conferences.

What you should have:

• A good first degree and PhD in Physics, Chemistry, Engineering, preferably in an area involving Raman spectroscopy (Applicants in the process of Ph.D. submission will be considered.)
• Knowledge of Raman spectroscopy instrumentation.
• Strong evidence of multivariate analysis of Raman spectra.
• Expertise in developing customised instrumentation for Raman spectroscopy.
• Excellent communication, presentation, and publishing skills to aid effective interaction with multidisciplinary, academic, clinical and industrial partners

Informal enquiries can be addressed to Professor Ioan Notingher (email ioan.notingher@nottingham.ac.uk ). Applications should include a CV and covering letter detailing relevant experience and suitability for the role.

As part of our commitment to improving equality, diversity, and inclusion within the school, shortlisted candidates will be given the opportunity to talk to a member of staff representing women, racially minoritized people, LGBTQIA+, or disabilities communities. This will be separate from the assessment process and will play no role in the decision to appoint.

It is a condition of this role that you undertake the Baseline Personnel Security Standard (BPSS) screening.

Your application will be considered on an equal basis, subject to the relevant permission to work in the UK as set out by UK Visas & Immigration.

Advert information