Research Associate/Fellow in Atomic Manipulation and Scanning Probe Microscopy (Fixed-term)

University of Nottingham; Nottingham; On-site; GBP 31,387 - 38,784; Full time

Benefits offered by this job

Generous holiday entitlement

Flexible hybrid working

Staff development opportunities

Access to fitness and health facilities

Bonuses for excellent work

Job summary

A prestigious research institution in Nottingham seeks a Research Associate/Fellow to contribute to the Nanoscience group. The role focuses on imaging and probing novel magnetic samples and requires a Ph.D. in surface science or related fields. The position offers a hybrid working arrangement and generous benefits like 30 days of annual leave. Candidates should have expertise in ultrahigh vacuum and surface preparation techniques. Applications close on March 31, 2026.

Qualifications

• PhD or nearing completion in relevant field.
• Experience in ultrahigh vacuum techniques.
• Knowledge of surface science and nanoscience.

Responsibilities

• Contribute to research in imaging and spectroscopy.
• Collaborate with Nanoscience and Spintronics groups.
• Work with Experimental Condensed Matter Physics and theory research.

Skills

Ultrahigh vacuum techniques

Surface preparation techniques

Education

Ph.D. in surface science/nanoscience

Job description

Salary

£31,387 to £38,784 per annum, pro rata depending on skills and experience (minimum £35,608 with relevant PhD). Salary progression beyond this scale is subject to performance.

Area

Physics & Astronomy

Location

University Park

Closing Date

Tues 31 March 2026

Reference

SCI081126

Applications are invited for a Research Associate/Fellow to join a research project in the Nottingham Nanoscience group (uonmmm.com) that focuses on imaging and spectroscopic probing of novel magnetic samples. This involves close collaboration between the Nanoscience and Spintronics groups in the School of Physics & Astronomy.

The researcher is expected to actively contribute to the research activities of the Experimental Condensed Matter Physics and Nanoscience Group (UoN) and the condensed matter theory research group led by Prof. Lev Kantorovich at King’s College London.

Candidates should have a Ph.D. (or Ph.D. nearing completion) in surface science/nanoscience, with knowledge and experience in ultrahigh vacuum techniques and technology, including surface preparation techniques.

What we offer

• A friendly, diverse, and supportive working environment
• A hybrid working arrangement with the blended approach of home and office working each week
• Generous holiday entitlement of 30 days (or pro rata) plus standard bank holidays and five university closure days including closure between Christmas and New Year.
• Our reward scheme grants bonuses of numerous values for excellent work
• We are committed to staff development through the provision of training, continued support, and career progression opportunities
• You will have access to a range of benefits and rewards, including fitness and health facilities, staff discounts, travel schemes and many more. To find out more about what we can offer you, follow the link to our benefits website.

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, BAME, LGBTQIA+ or disabilities communities. This will be separate to the assessment process and will play no role in the decision to appoint.

The post is available from the 31st March 2026 and is offered on a full-time (36.25 hours per week) fixed‑term contract until the 31st August 2026.

Informal enquiries may be addressed to Professor Philip Moriarty, [e-mail]. Please note that applications sent directly to this email address will not be accepted.

Our university is a supportive, inclusive, caring and positive community. We welcome those of different cultures, ethnicities and beliefs – indeed this very diversity is vital to our success, it is fundamental to our values and enriches life on campus. Visit our Equality, Diversity & Inclusion website.

We are proud to be a Disability Confident Employer (Level 2) and the first university to have achieved the Athena Swan Gold Award.

We welcome applications from UK, Europe and worldwide and aim to make your move to the UK as smooth as possible. Visit the Moving to Nottingham page for details.

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.