Research Associate in Instrumentation

The University of Manchester; Manchester; Hybrid; GBP 35,000 - 55,000; Full time

Job summary

An established industry player invites applications for a Research Associate specializing in Instrumentation within the Nuclear Physics group. This role is ideal for a PhD holder with expertise in X-ray generation and detection. You will engage in cutting-edge research, focusing on the simulation and experimental validation of a scintillator array. The position offers a vibrant research environment, collaboration with industry leaders, and a commitment to equality and diversity. Join a team dedicated to advancing knowledge and technology in a supportive atmosphere that values your contributions.

Benefits

Market-leading pension scheme

Excellent health and wellbeing services

Generous annual leave

Paid closure over Christmas

Retail discounts

Qualifications

• Experience in Monte Carlo simulation codes for photon detector modeling.
• Knowledge of experimental techniques for X-ray generation and detection.

Responsibilities

• Conduct simulation and experimental validation of a new scintillator array.
• Collaborate with a team and industrial partners on X-ray imaging solutions.

Skills

Monte Carlo simulation

X-ray generation

X-ray detection

Communication skills

Team collaboration

Education

PhD in Physics or related field

Tools

Geant4

Job description

Applications are invited for the position of Research Associate specialising in Instrumentation within the Nuclear Physics group in the Department of Physics & Astronomy, The University of Manchester. You will join a vibrant team of researchers that combines expertise from industry and academia. The nuclear physics group at Manchester is collaborating with an industrial partner in Rapiscan - a market leader in X-ray imaging solutions for security applications.

We are seeking to appoint an individual with research experience in X-ray generation and detection. The post, under the supervision of Dr David Sharp, is fixed-term starting 1st June 2025 until 30th November 2026 and will focus on the simulation and experimental validation of a new scintillator array for the detection of X-rays. The array couples fast scintillators with silicon photomultipliers and a new ASIC design. The project will be split between Manchester, where simulation work will be performed using Geant4, and Daresbury Laboratory, where experimental work will take place at Rapiscan's facility with an X-ray source.

You are required to hold, or about to obtain, a PhD (or equivalent) in physics or a related field. The successful applicant should have experience in Monte Carlo simulation codes to model photon detector responses, as well as knowledge of experimental techniques for X-ray generation and detection. The candidate should be well-organised, self-motivated, possess excellent communication skills, and be capable of working collaboratively within a team.

The Department of Physics and Astronomy is committed to promoting Equality, Diversity, Inclusion, and Access, contributing to the University's social responsibility agenda, and supporting initiatives like the Athena SWAN charter for promoting women's careers in STEM. The department has held JUNO Champion status since 2016 for its commitment to gender equality and inclusivity.

What you will get in return:

• Market-leading pension scheme
• Excellent health and wellbeing services, including an Employee Assistance Programme
• Generous annual leave entitlement plus bank holidays
• Additional paid closure over Christmas
• Discounts at major retailers

As an equal opportunities employer, we welcome applicants from all backgrounds regardless of age, sex, gender, ethnicity, disability, sexual orientation, or transgender status. All appointments are made on merit.

Our university supports flexible working arrangements, including hybrid working.

Please note that we are unable to respond to enquiries, accept CVs or applications from recruitment agencies. Recruitment agency submissions will be considered a gift.

Enquiries about the vacancy, shortlisting, and interviews:

Name: Dr David Sharp

Email: [e-mail]

General enquiries:

Email: [e-mail]

Technical support:

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

This vacancy will close at midnight on the closing date. Please see the link below for the Further Particulars document containing the person specification criteria.