Postdoctoral Research Associate in Experimental Laser Plasma Interactions – Grade 7

Economics Network; Liverpool; Hybrid; GBP 36,000 - 44,000; Full time

Job summary

The University of Liverpool invites applications for a Postdoctoral Researcher in plasma-liquid interaction, exploring how an optical plasma activates water. The role involves building experimental apparatus and diagnostics to study laser-driven discharge inside a liquid reactor.

You will work alongside a computational modelling fellow, publish findings, and contribute to dissemination efforts through talks and outreach. Fixed-term, 21 months, starting 1 October 2026 or soon after.

Qualifications

• PhD in a relevant field or nearing completion with strong experimental skills.
• Experience with laser-based plasma diagnostics or similar high-precision instruments.
• Ability to work independently and as part of an interdisciplinary team.

Responsibilities

• Develop experimental apparatus to study plasma-liquid interactions.
• Deliver laser pulses to a liquid reactor and generate discharges within liquid phase.
• Coordinate with a computational modelling colleague and share results.
• Disseminate findings through presentations and outreach activities.

Skills

Independent work

Team collaboration

Education

PhD in relevant field

Tools

High-intensity laser system

Beamline diagnostics

Job description

We are looking for an enthusiastic and highly motivated Postdoctoral Researcher to join our dynamic research team in the exciting, interdisciplinary field of plasma-liquid interaction. This is a unique opportunity to contribute on new horizon research investigating how an optical plasma activates water.

As part of a team funded by the Leverhulme Trust, your role will be developing experimental apparatus and diagnostic methods to explore the interaction between an optical plasma, generated by a high intensity laser pulse, and a liquid where the breakdown occurs. This will involve constructing a beam line to deliver short-duration laser pulses (spanning fs, ps and ns timescales) to a reactor containing a target solution in order to generate an intense discharge directly within the liquid phase. You will coordinate with another postdoctoral research associate, focused on computational modelling, and publish your research findings to achieve project goals. You will contribute to knowledge exchange and dissemination efforts through activities such as presentations and outreach initiatives.

To be successful in this role, you should be passionate about the discipline, committed to high-quality research, and capable of working both independently and as part of a diverse, interdisciplinary team. To be considered for this post, please submit a cover letter that clearly highlights your relevant skills, demonstrates how you meet the criteria outlined in the person specification, and explains your career motivations.

The post is fixed term, full-time for 21 months and is available from 1 October 2026 or as soon as possible thereafter.

If you are still awaiting your PhD to be awarded you will be appointed at Grade 6, spine point 30. Upon written confirmation that you have been awarded your PhD, your salary will be increased to Grade 7, spine point 31.

Commitment to Diversity

The University of Liverpool is committed to enhancing workforce diversity. We actively seek to attract, develop, and retain colleagues with diverse backgrounds and perspectives. We welcome applications from all genders/gender identities, Black, Asian, or Minority Ethnic backgrounds, individuals living with a disability, and members of the LGBTQIA+ community.

Closing Date: 8 October 202623:30

£39,906 per annum