Detector Scientist/Engineer Summer placement - Detector Engineering Group in Harwell

An exciting opportunity is available for a placement student to join the Detector Engineering Group in STFC’s Technology Department! The group consists of world leading scientists and engineers delivering groundbreaking instrumentation to some of the world’s largest science facilities. One of our most notable projects is the design, development and delivery of the Large Pixel Detector (LPD) to the European X-ray Free Electron Laser.

During the 12 weeks in our group, the successful student will get to contribute to the first tests of the XIDYN Application Specific Integrated Circuit (ASIC), a major new X-ray camera development led by STFC in partnership with some of Europe’s largest photon light sources, including the Diamond Light Source Synchrotron, The European Synchrotron Radiation Facility (ESRF) and the European XFEL.

Placements at STFC allow you to work alongside world leading engineers, scientists, and technicians in highly collaborative environments. You will become a critical member of the team, exposed to exciting projects and challenges from the start, supported every step of the way by our dedicated Early Careers Development Team.

Key Duties & Responsibilities

• Conducting laboratory experiments using readout electronics and X-ray sources to evaluate detector performance.
• Analysing numerical data to draw conclusions on detector and ASIC performance.
• Communicating results via written reports and informal team presentations.
• Developing technical knowledge through job-shadowing and training in detector testing and evaluation.

What We’re Looking For

We are seeking a motivated scientist or engineer with an interest in:

• Hands on work with detectors and electronics.
• Data processing and analysis.
• Sensors and their applications.

While some prior experience in these areas is beneficial, full training and mentoring will be provided to ensure you gain confidence and expertise. You will also receive safety training to work in laboratory environments with ionising radiation.

Why Join Us?

• Hands-on experience with pioneering sensor technologies.
• Opportunity to co-author a peer-reviewed publication.
• Work alongside leading scientists and engineers in a research environment.
• Gain exposure to real-world applications of camera systems for use at large science facilities like the Diamond Light Source Synchrotron.

Person Specification

The below criteria will be scored during Shortlisting (S), Interview (I) or both (S&I). In order to apply for the role, we are looking for the following:

Essential:

• You are in full time education at university, and will be returning to university/your studies to complete your undergraduate degree once the summer placement has concluded (S).
• You have the right to live and work in the UK for the duration of the placement (S).
• Strong academic background, with or forecasted First or 2:1 in a Physics or Electronics-based degree (S).
• Basic knowledge of sensors and electronics (S&I).
• Good practical skills, including hands-on lab experience (S&I).
• Systematic and analytical approach to problem-solving (S&I).
• Strong written and verbal communication skills (S&I).
• Ability to work independently and within a team (S&I).

Desirable:

• Awareness of radiation interactions with matter (S&I).
• Awareness or some experience of using radiation or detectors (S&I).
• Some experience in computer programming (e.g., C, C++, Python, MATLAB) (S&I).

Employee Benefits

We are offering a fixed term position with a whole host of benefits including:

• 30 days holiday pro rata.
• Flexible working hours.
• Easily accessible public transport links/ free parking.
• Excellent learning and development opportunities.

Please note that we can only accept a maximum of 2 applications per candidate. Part of our application process involves submitting your CV and a cover letter. Your cover letter should address your suitability for the opportunity based on how you meet each essential criteria stated in this advert.

We ask some of the biggest questions in the universe, to answer some of the biggest challenges in the world. Together, our scientists, technologists, engineers and business support team explore the unknown across every field you could think of. And they turn what they find into work that changes the world around us. What could you achieve with the world-leading facilities and experts of one of Europe's largest research organisations by your side? Join us and discover what’s possible!