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For Companies At a Glance
- Tasks: Join us as an Instrument Scientist and tackle exciting challenges in Big Science.
- Company: Be part of the Science and Technology Facilities Council, a leader in scientific research.
- Benefits: Enjoy 30 days holiday, flexible hours, and a great pension scheme.
- Why this job: Make a real impact with world-class scientists and cutting-edge facilities.
- Qualifications: Ideal for those with a passion for science and relevant experience.
- Other info: This is a fixed-term role for 48 months at Rutherford Appleton Laboratory.
The predicted salary is between 41344 - 45379 £ per year.
Job Description
Instrument Scientist – TOSCA-VESPA
Science and Technology Facilities Council
Salary:Band D £41,344 – £45,479- Band E £51,242 – £56,366 per annum (dependent on skills and experience).
Hours: Full time
Contract Type: Fixed Term (48 months)
Location: Science and Technology Facilities Council, Rutherford Appleton Laboratory Harwell, Oxfordshire
Benefits: We offer a whole host of benefits including 30 days holiday (in addition to 10.5 bank holidays and privilege days), flexible working hours, an excellent defined average salary pension scheme and continuous learning and development opportunities.
Come and do the kind of science that made you want to become a scientist. Explore the unknown and get to grips with the biggest challenges in Big Science. Alongside world class engineers and technologists, use everything you've learnt to find real-answers that shape society and improve lives.
Put simply, discover the kind of impact you can make when you work with some of the best facilities and brightest scientists in the world!
About Us
The European Spallation Source (ESS) is currently under construction in Lund (Sweden). Both the UK (via the Science & Technology Facilities Council (STFC)) and Italy (via the Consiglio Nazionale delle Ricerche (CNR)) are partners in this pan-European project. As part of their contribution to the ESS, the CNR are committed to providing the indirect geometry spectrometer, VESPA, to the ESS instrument suite.
ISIS Neutron and Muon Sourceand CNR are collaborating on the design of the instrument and to progress it further we are looking to recruit an instrument scientist to work on the design of the VESPA spectrometer. This is a fixed-term four year position and you will be part of the ISIS Molecular Spectroscopy Group.
The role has two major components: the first is working with the VESPA lead scientist on the design of VESPA using ray-tracing simulations and on related areas such as prototyping components. The second is working on the TOSCA spectrometer at ISIS, the instrument that inspired VESPA. This includes supporting and collaborating with users to run inelastic neutron scattering experiments as well as conducting your own research program on instruments at ISIS and other neutron sources. You will work with international teams and will be involved with experiments covering a wide range of scientific research disciplines.
About You
We are looking for someone with relevant research experience and an interest in instrument design. In particular, experience of ray-tracing simulations (e.g. McStas, VITESS) and capability in using inelastic neutron scattering are required. You will work well in a collaborative environment and will have broad interests in order to work effectively with our users. You will have many ideas for your own research and will be able to communicate this with clarity and enthusiasm.
Person Specification
- Educated to PhD level in physics, chemistry, materials science, or similar discipline (or imminent award of a PhD)
- Experience of design in scientific instrumentation or sample environment
- Demonstrable potential (Band D) or proven ability (Band E) to pursue an independent research program
- Computational skills, including a working knowledge of coding languages (e.g. C++, Python, Matlab)
- Good interpersonal and communication/written skills
How to apply:
For full details on the role, please visit our careers site. Please submit an application including your CV and a Cover Letter that clearly showcases how your skills and experience align to the requirements of the role.
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Instrument Scientist - TOSCA-VESPA employer: Science and Technology Facilities Council (STFC)
Contact Detail:
Science and Technology Facilities Council (STFC) Recruiting Team
StudySmarter Expert Advice 🤫
We think this is how you could land Instrument Scientist - TOSCA-VESPA
✨Tip Number 1
Familiarize yourself with the latest advancements in neutron scattering techniques, as this knowledge will be crucial for your role. Engage with current research papers and attend relevant conferences to stay updated.
✨Tip Number 2
Network with professionals in the field of instrument science and technology. Join online forums or LinkedIn groups related to neutron scattering and engage in discussions to build connections that could help you during the application process.
✨Tip Number 3
Prepare to discuss your hands-on experience with scientific instruments during the interview. Be ready to share specific examples of projects you've worked on and how they relate to the responsibilities of the Instrument Scientist role.
✨Tip Number 4
Show your enthusiasm for collaborative research. Highlight any previous experiences where you worked in multidisciplinary teams, as this is a key aspect of the role at STFC.
We think you need these skills to ace Instrument Scientist - TOSCA-VESPA
Some tips for your application 🫡
Understand the Role: Make sure to thoroughly read the job description for the Instrument Scientist position. Understand the key responsibilities and required skills, as this will help you tailor your application effectively.
Highlight Relevant Experience: In your CV and cover letter, emphasize your relevant experience in scientific instrumentation and any specific projects that align with the work at the Science and Technology Facilities Council. Use concrete examples to demonstrate your expertise.
Craft a Compelling Cover Letter: Write a personalized cover letter that not only outlines your qualifications but also expresses your passion for science and technology. Mention why you are specifically interested in working with the European Spallation Source and how you can contribute to their goals.
Proofread Your Application: Before submitting your application, carefully proofread all documents for spelling and grammatical errors. A polished application reflects your attention to detail and professionalism, which are crucial in a scientific role.
How to prepare for a job interview at Science and Technology Facilities Council (STFC)
✨Understand the Role
Make sure you have a clear understanding of the Instrument Scientist position and its responsibilities. Familiarize yourself with TOSCA-VESPA and how it fits into the broader context of the European Spallation Source project.
✨Showcase Your Experience
Prepare to discuss your relevant experience in instrumentation and scientific research. Highlight specific projects or challenges you've tackled that demonstrate your skills and problem-solving abilities.
✨Ask Insightful Questions
Prepare thoughtful questions about the team, the projects, and the future direction of the TOSCA-VESPA initiative. This shows your genuine interest in the role and helps you assess if it's the right fit for you.
✨Emphasize Collaboration
Since the role involves working alongside engineers and technologists, be ready to discuss your teamwork experiences. Share examples of how you've successfully collaborated in multidisciplinary teams to achieve common goals.
