At a Glance
- Tasks: Support innovative biomedical projects using advanced optical techniques and data analysis.
- Company: Join Heriot-Watt University, a leader in research and innovation.
- Benefits: Enjoy 33 days annual leave, competitive salary, and flexible working options.
- Other info: Collaborative environment with opportunities for personal and professional growth.
- Why this job: Make a real-world impact in healthcare with cutting-edge photonics technology.
- Qualifications: Degree in physics or engineering; experience with optical systems and data analysis.
The predicted salary is between 31236 - 36636 £ per year.
Grade and Salary: Grade 6, £31,236 - £36,636 per annum FTE and working pattern: Full-time (35hrs per week); Fixed-term (6 months).
Reward and Benefits: 33 days annual leave, plus 9 buildings closed days for all full time staff.
About our Team: Within the Photonics Instrumentation Group (PhI), and specifically the “TannerLab” sub group we exploit novel photonic techniques such as time resolved single photon technologies and optical fibre sensors to tackle clinical/biomedical challenges and other real world applications. Our work is primarily experimental, developing measurement systems and principles, with theory and analysis to support this. We strongly collaborate with clinical practitioners in order to move those systems towards application.
Purpose of Role: This specific position is to support our ongoing project on NG Tube placement. This will be focussed on diffuse optical data analysis, optical phantom manufacture, and experimental data acquisition. This will use advanced detection techniques, such as time resolved imaging. The role will be to support an existing PDRA in advancing testing and processing. Due to the short term and ongoing project with strict time limits, this position is for someone with specific skills for rapid start and project progression.
Key Duties and Responsibilities:
- Processing and analysing multi-dimensional time resolved photon counting data based on principles of diffuse optics.
- Developing algorithms to categorise the above in specific medical use cases.
- Manufacturing diffuse optical phantoms as a parallel to clinical models.
- Performing rigorous and systematic experiments to characterise optical phantoms.
- Working with optical systems to perform the above.
- Working with time resolved photon counting techniques, specifically SPAD arrays, for measurements in the above.
- Reporting on the above through written summaries for the team, and potential feeding in to formal documentation.
- Assisting in the day-to-day maintenance of the experimental facilities.
Person Specification:
These are the criteria on which the short-listing and recruitment selection will be made.
Essential:
- A degree in physics or engineering or related discipline.
- Direct experience operating optical systems for biological / medical application.
- Experience of experimental data acquisition or experimental system in relevant coding languages (e.g. Matlab / python).
- Experience of single photon counting techniques.
- A proven academic ability and a demonstrable high level of technical competence in experimental science and the analysis / modelling of the results.
- The ability to articulate research work, both in technical reports / papers and by oral presentation.
- The ability to work as part of a team on the experiments at Heriot-Watt and more widely with collaborators at other institutions.
Desirable:
- Due to the short term and rapid start requirements, direct experience of diffuse time resolved photon counting experiments and data is highly desirable.
- Extensive experience in CMOS based SPAD array characterisation/optimisation, control and application to biophotonics.
- Diffusion model simulations.
- Diffusive phantom fabrication.
- Demonstrated experience in analysing data from the above.
About Heriot-Watt University: At Heriot Watt we are passionate about our values and look to them to connect our people globally and to help us collaborate and celebrate our success through working together. Our research programmes can deliver real world impact which is achieved through the diversity of our international community and the recognition of creative talent that connects our global team. Our flourishing community will give you the freedom to challenge and to bring your enterprising mind and to help our partners with solutions that can be applied now and in the future. Join us and Heriot Watt will provide you with a platform to thrive and work in a way that also helps you live your life in balance with well-being and inclusiveness at the heart of our global community. Heriot-Watt University is committed to securing equality of opportunity in employment and to the creation of an environment in which individuals are selected, trained, promoted, appraised and otherwise treated on the sole basis of their relevant merits and abilities. Equality and diversity are all about maximising potential and creating a culture of inclusion for all. Heriot-Watt University values diversity across our University community and welcomes applications from all sectors of society, particularly from underrepresented groups. We welcome and will consider flexible working patterns e.g. part-time working and job share options.
Research Technician – Biomedical Photonics employer: Heriot-Watt University
Heriot-Watt University in Orkney is an exceptional employer, offering a vibrant academic environment that fosters innovation and collaboration in the field of renewable energy. With a strong commitment to employee development, you will have access to numerous growth opportunities while contributing to impactful research and curriculum development in marine energy technologies. The unique location in Orkney, known for its pioneering work in offshore energy, provides a stimulating backdrop for meaningful and rewarding employment.
StudySmarter Expert Advice🤫
We think this is how you could land Research Technician – Biomedical Photonics
✨Get Involved in Local Research Communities
Tap into local biotechnology meetups and research forums. These are great places to mingle with industry professionals, share your passion, and even discover unadvertised job openings. It's all about getting your face known in the field!
✨Leverage University Alumni Networks
If you're a recent grad, don’t underestimate the power of your university’s alumni network! Reach out to alumni working in biotechnology to gather tips about job openings at companies like Heriot-Watt University. You'd be surprised how willing people are to help out a fellow grad!
✨Show Off Your Projects
Curate a portfolio showcasing any research projects or internships you've completed in biotechnology. This tangible evidence of your skills can really impress employers when you chat with them at networking events or interviews. It's about making that killer first impression!
✨Stay Up-to-Date with Industry Trends
Biotech is a fast-paced field, so keeping yourself updated with the latest advancements is crucial. Attend industry conferences, webinars, or workshops to broaden your knowledge and meet potential employers. Plus, it’ll give you fantastic talking points for your interviews at places like Heriot-Watt University!
We think you need these skills to ace Research Technician – Biomedical Photonics
Some tips for your application 🫡
Show Off Your Lab Skills:In the biotechnology field, it's super important to highlight your lab experience in your CV. Be sure to mention specific techniques or instruments you've mastered (think PCR, gel electrophoresis, etc.) and any relevant projects you've worked on. This will show Heriot-Watt University that you have the hands-on skills they need.
Tailor Your Technical Skills:Make sure to emphasise your technical skills, especially those relevant to the biotechnology sector. Include any software tools or programming languages you've used, like R or Python for data analysis, which could be key for this role at Heriot-Watt University.
Craft a Compelling Cover Letter:Since this is a full-time role, your cover letter should reflect not only your passion for biotechnology but also your long-term career ambitions. Share why you're excited about the work that Heriot-Watt University does and how you envision contributing to their goals. This shows that you’re not just looking for any job, but you're genuinely invested in this opportunity.
Include Your Papers and Projects:If you've published any papers or contributed to significant projects, mention them! These documents can boost your application and provide tangible evidence of your expertise in the biotechnology field. Don’t forget to link to any relevant publications or project summaries—this can set you apart from other candidates.
How to prepare for a job interview at Heriot-Watt University
✨Brush Up on Lab Techniques
Since you're eyeing a full-time gig in biotechnology, make sure you're well-versed in the lab techniques relevant to the role. Be ready to talk about PCR, CRISPR, or any specific methods mentioned in the job description at Heriot-Watt University. You might even be asked to demonstrate your understanding of these processes.
✨Know Your Bioinformatics Tools
Get comfortable with bioinformatics tools that are commonly used in the industry, like BLAST or Bioconductor. These are key in biotechnology, and having hands-on experience or at least familiarity can set you apart. Prepare to discuss any relevant projects you've worked on, especially if they involved data analysis or genomic research.
✨Show Your Teamwork Skills
Biotech often involves collaboration across multiple disciplines. Be ready to share stories that highlight your teamwork and communication skills, especially in research projects. Think about working with different teams at university or any internships – this is where you can show how well you fit into Heriot-Watt University's culture.
✨Research Recent Biotech Innovations
Stay updated on the latest trends and breakthroughs in biotechnology. Knowing what's happening in the field can help you engage in more meaningful discussions during your interview. Bring up recent articles or advancements that excite you, especially those related to the work being done at Heriot-Watt University. This shows your passion for the industry!
