Instrumental Raman Spectroscopist – UPLiFT

3 Years Fixed-term Contract 

Location: Science and Technology Facilities Council, Rutherford Appleton Laboratory Harwell, Oxfordshire OX11 0DE

Come and discover the kind of impact you can make when you work with some of the best facilities and brightest scientists in the world.

As part of the Science and Technology Facilities Council (STFC) the Central Laser Facility (CLF) contains many state-of-the-art laser systems and experimental stations, along with expert scientists, engineers and technicians that work with academic and industry users to deliver science across a broad range of fields. We have around 200 staff and are a very friendly, outgoing, externally facing department. We have a welcoming and inclusive culture, and you will find that people will naturally help and support you.

About the role

The position is to participate in a research project to develop a novel concept combining Spatially Offset Raman Spectroscopy (SORS) and ultrasound for enhanced chemically specific imaging deep inside biological tissue. The full-time position is funded through a recently awarded EPSRC grant for three years. The concerned work will take place at the Central Laser Facility, STFC Rutherford Appleton Laboratory in Oxfordshire, UK and involves close collaboration with the University of Exeter (Prof. Nick Stone).

This post will be part of a team of leading scientists working to develop novel solutions to solve clinical needs in patient specific diagnosis and treatment of cancers. Specifically, we seek a postdoctoral research scientist to focus on the development of instrumentation comprising both SORS and Raman technology. Expertise in vibrational spectroscopy is essential.

The post will include design, construction, optimisation and day-to-day operation of the instrument. The study will be performed on excised tissue and optical phantoms. The applicant will have experience with data analysis of vibrational spectra.

The successful applicant will be able to present information on research progress and outcomes, communicate complex information orally, in writing and electronically and participate in the preparation of proposals and applications to external bodies.

A suitable candidate will be a PhD graduate (or near completion) in any of the natural sciences.

The candidate will benefit from working in a vibrant internationally leading research environment. Advanced training and researcher development will be provided as part of the programme.

Main duties and accountabilities

• To undertake research to develop the novel analytical instrumentation, including optical design.
• Writing up research work for publication.
• Making presentations at national and international conferences and similar events.
• Dealing with problems which may affect the achievement of research objectives and deadlines.
• Analysing and interpreting the results of own research and generating original ideas based on outcomes.
• Using new research techniques and methods.
• Using initiative and creativity to identify areas for research, developing new research methods and extending the research portfolio.
• To monitor research budgets as appropriate.
• To maintain safety in their research environment.
• Engaging in continuous professional development.

Person Specification

• The following criteria will be assessed at Shortlisting (S), Interview (I) or both (S&I)
• A PhD in natural sciences (or within 6 months of completion), or equivalent experience. (S)
• Experience in using vibrational spectroscopy (Raman or IR) and associated data analysis. (S&I)
• Hands on experience in developing/aligning vibrational spectroscopy instruments (Raman or IR). (S&I)
• Having a proactive approach to work and to be able to use initiative to work within a scientific environment. (I)
• Able to work independently and as a part of a team. (S&I)
• Able to work to tight deadlines. (S&I)
• Safety awareness. (I)
• Excellent interpersonal skills, including communication, both written and oral. (S&I)

Additional Information

Further information is available from Prof. Pavel Matousek (pavel.matousek@stfc.ac.uk).

Our Benefits

• UK Research and Innovation recognises and values employees as individuals and aim to provide a pay and rewards package that motivates staff to perform to the best of their ability.
• The reward package includes a flexible working scheme, Defined benefit pension scheme, 30 days annual leave allowance plus 10.5 bank holiday/privilege days and several other benefits.
• We ask some of the biggest questions in the universe, to answer some of the biggest challenges in the world. Whatever our role, we have the freedom to explore, learn and connect, as part of a community that loves to share knowledge and support one another.
• As one of Europe’s largest research organisations, this is a place where there’s always something new to learn – about the world around us, about your career, but most of all, about yourself.

Join us and discover what’s possible!

Please note, if you will require sponsorship to work in the UK, as part of your sponsorship application, you and any dependants travelling with you, will be required to pay costs directly to The Home Office for the application before you start your role with us. UKRI is normally able to reimburse some, or all of these fees after you have become an employee and this can be discussed with the Hiring Manager. For more information, please visit https://www.gov.uk/skilled-worker-visa/how-much-it-costs or contact recruitment@ukri.org

Please apply via the 'Apply' button above.