Specialist Technician

Cyber Security Academy Southampton; Larkhill; On-site; GBP 24,000 - 32,000; Full time

Job summary

University of Southampton is seeking a Specialist Technician to support the Novel Advanced Materials group in creating next-generation materials for optical, photonic and electronic applications. You will operate specialised glass equipment, fabricate materials from molecular-scale to millimetre-thick, and work in the Zepler Institute Cleanroom.

The role requires laboratory experience, a science degree, good communication, and the ability to work independently with the team.

Qualifications

• Proven experience in a laboratory setting and ability to plan and progress work.
• Degree in a science related subject or equivalent industry experience required.
• Basic knowledge of material synthesis and glass fabrication desirable.
• Excellent communication and self-motivation are essential.

Responsibilities

• Operate Novel and Compound Glass equipment in the cleanroom.
• Fabricate materials from single-molecule thickness to several millimetres.
• Receive full training and support from the team.
• Attend Research Technical Professional training events.
• Working hours are 9 AM to 5 PM, 35 hours per week.

Skills

Laboratory experience

Planning and progress tracking

Communication skills

Self-motivation

Education

Science degree

Equivalent industry experience

Tools

Gloveboxes

Tube furnaces

Annealing furnaces

CVD (Chemical Vapour Deposition)

ALD (Atomic Layer Deposition)

Characterisation systems

Job description

The Novel Advanced Materials group at the University of Southampton is creating the next generation of advanced materials for optical, photonic and electronic applications.

You will join the Novel Advanced Materials group in the department of Electronics and Computer Science, a team applying expertise within the Novel and Compound facilities to develop new materials and advance emerging technologies. The expertise of the team is with the development of chalcogenide and layered materials from two-dimensional materials to specialty glasses. To achieve this, we employ purpose-built equipment, not available anywhere else. Through a collaborative and supportive environment, we aim to provide cutting-edge research with special focus on the development of our people.

We are seeking a Specialist Technician who is passionate to support our work on developing the next generation of advanced materials and be part of an enthusiastic team. The focus will be on the production of chalcogenide precursors and glasses using unique processes developed at the University of Southampton. Problem solving and time management capabilities, ability to work with others but also individually, good communication skills and self-motivation are key aspects for joining our thriving team. Working at the University of Southampton within the Zepler Institute Cleanroom facilities provides access to advanced research and technologies. This enables strong career advancement opportunities through the university culture which is focused on the development of people while providing excellent working standards. Working hours are 9 AM to 5 PM, with 35 hours per week.

In the role of Specialist Technician, you will be responsible for the operation of the Novel and Compound Glass equipment. This equipment is employed in fabricating materials from as thin as a single molecule to as thick as several millimetres. It includes gloveboxes, tube furnaces, annealing furnaces, Chemical Vapour Deposition, Atomic Layer Deposition, and a variety of custom and characterisation systems. To operate these effectively you will be given full training and be supported by the rest of the team. You will also have the opportunity to attend Research Technical Professional training events.

Proven experience in a laboratory setting and being able to demonstrate planning and progress of work is essential. A degree in a science related subject or equivalent industry experience is required. Basic knowledge on material synthesis and glass fabrication processes is desirable.

The University of Southampton is committed into sustaining an inclusive environment for all students and staff. The University and ECS hold an Athena SWAN Silver Award and works continuously to improve equality in the workplace and encourage a work-life balance. Our focus is on the development and progression of our people, and we achieve this through a friendly supportive environment.

Due to specific funding requirements, this position is only open to nationals of certain countries, including UK nationals and parts of Europe and you will also be put forward for BPSS screening prior to appointment. If you have any questions about this or would like to confirm whether your application would meet funder requirements, please get in touch using the contact details below.

For general enquires please contact Ioannis Zeimpekis ([e-mail])

• Job Description and Person Specification

We are committed to equality, diversity and inclusion and welcome applicants who support our mission of inclusivity.

The University is a signatory of the Technician Commitment and a partner affiliate of the National Technician Development Centre (NTDC). We are committed to supporting our technical staff and offer a wide range of opportunities including networking, mentoring, training, professional registration and career development. We really value all our technical staff and recognise the broad range of skills they have in support of education, research and enterprise activities. By joining you will be part of a bigger technical community, offering support and guidance.