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- Tasks: Research and characterise defective graphene using advanced facilities and techniques.
- Company: Join the innovative Diamond Light Source team at Harwell Science and Innovation Campus.
- Benefits: Enjoy 26 days annual leave, flexible hours, and on-site amenities.
- Why this job: Make groundbreaking discoveries in graphene research while mentoring PhD students.
- Qualifications: PhD in physics or chemistry with experience in surface science and 2D materials.
- Other info: Collaborate with top universities and enjoy excellent career development opportunities.
The predicted salary is between 41414 - 45510 £ per year.
The successful candidate will study the growth of graphene with deliberately included defects and characterise the physical and chemical properties of these defect sites using state‑of‑the‑art facilities at Diamond Light Source and other locations. The role involves working with beamline I09, maintaining an offline laboratory for sample preparation and performing lab‑based XPS, STM and TPD. The candidate will supervise PhD students, support beamline operations, draft beamtime proposals, and participate in beamtimes at Diamond or other light sources.
Base Pay Range: £41,414 to £45,510 (discretionary to £52,337)
Location: Harwell Science and Innovation Campus, Oxfordshire.
Full‑time, 2‑year fixed‑term.
Qualifications:
- PhD in physics, chemistry or an associated topic.
- Experience with ultra‑high vacuum equipment, XPS, surface science and 2D materials research.
- Knowledge of XSW, NEXAFS, STM, TPD and data‑analysis programming.
- Experience drafting scientific articles and proposals.
Responsibilities:
- Study growth of graphene with defects and characterise defect sites.
- Conduct synchrotron experiments (XSW, NEXAFS, XPS).
- Operate and maintain offline lab equipment (XPS, STM, TPD).
- Supervise PhD students and support beamline user community.
- Develop research portfolio, draft beamtime proposals and participate in beamtimes.
- Collaborate with University of Nottingham, University of Warwick and Queen Mary University of London.
Benefits:
- 26 days annual leave plus Christmas closure, public holidays, 2 volunteering days.
- Flexible working hours and a defined benefit pension scheme.
- On‑site amenities: nursery, cafes, restaurant, sports and leisure facilities.
- Relocation allowance may be available.
Application: Apply online and explain why you are suitable for this role. The closing date for applications is 1st February. This role requires a fully onsite working arrangement.
Post Doctoral Research Associate for Defective Graphene employer: Diamond Light Source
Contact Detail:
Diamond Light Source Recruiting Team
StudySmarter Expert Advice 🤫
We think this is how you could land Post Doctoral Research Associate for Defective Graphene
✨Tip Number 1
Network like a pro! Reach out to your contacts in the field of graphene research or related areas. Attend conferences, workshops, or seminars where you can meet potential colleagues and collaborators. You never know who might have a lead on job openings!
✨Tip Number 2
Show off your skills! Prepare a portfolio showcasing your previous research, publications, and any relevant projects. This will help you stand out during interviews and give you something tangible to discuss with potential employers.
✨Tip Number 3
Practice makes perfect! Conduct mock interviews with friends or mentors to refine your responses to common questions. Focus on articulating your experience with ultra-high vacuum equipment and your knowledge of XPS and STM techniques.
✨Tip Number 4
Apply through our website! We encourage you to submit your application directly on our platform. It’s a great way to ensure your application gets the attention it deserves, and you can easily track your progress throughout the hiring process.
We think you need these skills to ace Post Doctoral Research Associate for Defective Graphene
Some tips for your application 🫡
Show Off Your Expertise: Make sure to highlight your PhD and any relevant experience with ultra-high vacuum equipment, XPS, and 2D materials research. We want to see how your background aligns with the role, so don’t hold back!
Tailor Your Application: Customise your application to reflect the specific responsibilities mentioned in the job description. Mention your experience with synchrotron experiments and how you can contribute to the beamline operations at Diamond Light Source.
Be Clear and Concise: Keep your application straightforward and to the point. We appreciate clarity, so make sure your reasons for applying and your qualifications are easy to understand. Avoid jargon unless it’s necessary!
Apply Through Our Website: Don’t forget to submit your application through our website! It’s the best way for us to receive your details and ensures you’re considered for the role. Plus, it’s super easy!
How to prepare for a job interview at Diamond Light Source
✨Know Your Graphene
Make sure you brush up on your knowledge of graphene, especially regarding defects and their properties. Be prepared to discuss your previous research and how it relates to the role, as well as any specific techniques you've used, like XPS or STM.
✨Showcase Your Technical Skills
Since this role involves operating ultra-high vacuum equipment and conducting synchrotron experiments, be ready to talk about your hands-on experience with these tools. Highlight any relevant projects where you’ve successfully used these techniques, and don’t shy away from discussing challenges you faced and how you overcame them.
✨Prepare for Collaboration Questions
This position requires collaboration with various universities and supervising PhD students. Think of examples from your past where you worked in a team or mentored others. Be ready to explain how you can contribute to a collaborative environment and support the beamline user community.
✨Drafting Proposals is Key
Since you'll be involved in drafting beamtime proposals, prepare to discuss your experience in writing scientific articles and proposals. Bring along examples if possible, and be ready to explain your approach to developing a strong research portfolio that aligns with the goals of Diamond Light Source.
