At a Glance
- Tasks: Join us to develop cutting-edge STM luminescence systems and automate experimental workflows.
- Company: University of Bath, a diverse and inclusive research environment.
- Benefits: Generous leave, pension schemes, professional development, and local discounts.
- Other info: Full-time role with excellent career growth and a supportive workplace culture.
- Why this job: Make an impact in nanoscience and quantum technologies while advancing your research skills.
- Qualifications: Master's in Physics or related field, with experience in scanning probe microscopy and Python programming.
The predicted salary is between 31236 - 37694 £ per year.
About the role
We seek to recruit a highly motivated researcher with a strong background in STM-induced single molecule manipulation, or a closely related field for a 6-month Research Assistant position funded by the EPSRC award Shining light on single molecule dynamics: photon by photon (grant reference EP/X /1, PI: Dr Kristina Rusimova). You will contribute to the project by developing and implementing a state-of-the-art scanning tunnelling microscope (STM) luminescence system capable of single-photon counting and photon correlation measurements. Working with a room-temperature ultrahigh vacuum STM, you will design and optimise the optical detection setup to investigate the temporal behaviour of molecular emitters and hot-electron-driven processes at the single-molecule level.
A key aspect of the role is the development of automated experimental workflows and instrument control using Python. You will contribute to our existing laboratory automation framework by integrating hardware control, data acquisition, and analysis pipelines to enable reliable, high-throughput measurements. In addition, you will analyse, publish, and disseminate research findings through high-quality journal publications and presentations at international conferences. You will collaborate closely with project partners and members of the research group, contribute to a vibrant and interdisciplinary research environment, and have opportunities to support the supervision of postgraduate researchers. This position offers an excellent opportunity to develop expertise in single-molecule spectroscopy, scientific instrumentation, and laboratory automation while contributing to cutting-edge research at the interface of nanoscience, photonics, and quantum technologies.
As a member of Research Staff at the University of Bath, you will be encouraged to take up a minimum of 10 days professional development pro rata per year.
About you
You will hold a Master's degree in Physics or a closely related discipline. You will have hands-on experience in experimental scanning probe microscopy, including room-temperature single-molecule manipulation and spectroscopy, together with excellent laboratory skills and a strong understanding of the underlying physical principles. You will have demonstrable experience in scientific programming with Python, including laboratory automation, instrument control, data acquisition, and the development of robust and reproducible data analysis workflows. Experience with version control (e.g. Git) and scientific software development would be advantageous.
The successful candidate will be motivated to develop as an independent experimental researcher and will contribute to the design, implementation, and optimisation of advanced instrumentation for single-molecule spectroscopy. Experience with ultrahigh vacuum systems, scanning tunnelling microscopy, STM-induced luminescence, or single-photon detection would be advantageous but is not essential. Excellent communication and organisational skills, the ability to work both independently and as part of a collaborative research team, and enthusiasm for developing new experimental techniques are essential.
Further information
This is a full time (36.5 hours per week) fixed term role with an expected start date of September 2026 until March 2027.
We consider ourselves to be a university where difference is celebrated, respected and encouraged. We have an excellent international reputation with staff from over 60 different nations and have made a positive commitment towards gender equity and intersectionality receiving a Silver Athena SWAN award. We truly believe that diversity of experience, perspectives, and backgrounds will lead to a better environment for our employees and students and encourage applications from all genders, backgrounds, and communities, particularly from under-represented groups, and value the positive impact that will have on the university. We are committed to maintaining a safe and secure environment for our students, staff, and community by reinforcing our Safer Recruitment commitment.
What we can offer you
- Generous annual leave allowance with an additional 5 discretionary days so that you can enjoy a positive work life balance
- Generous employer contributory pension schemes
- Cycle to work scheme
- Electric vehicle salary sacrifice scheme
- Staff discount at Team Bath gym
- Staff benefits include discounted postgraduate tuition and language courses, alongside a wide range of personal and professional development opportunities such as apprenticeships, LinkedIn Learning, and more
- Local discounts, including free entry to the Holburne Museum in Bath
- A family-friendly workplace
- An excellent reward package that recognises the talents of our diverse workforce
- Relocation allowance
- Visa reimbursement and Interest-Free Loan to help with the cost of some immigration expenses
- Employee assistance services through Health Assured, including access to the Wisdom app
Be Well at Bath
We’re committed to creating a health-supporting working environment where everyone can thrive and be at their best. We offer a range of resources to enable you to do that from your first day here, including: Staff support groups and networks, a network of Staff Wellbeing Champions, and a suite of tools, resources and frameworks that enable you to be at your best and thrive.
Closing Date: 16 Jul 2026
Department: Education & Research
Salary: £31,236 to £37,694
Research Assistant in Scanning Tunnelling Microscopy Luminescence (SS13790) - Bath, BA2 7AY employer: University of Bath
The University of Bath is an exceptional employer, offering a vibrant and inclusive work culture that celebrates diversity and encourages professional growth. With generous benefits such as a substantial annual leave allowance, employer contributory pension schemes, and extensive development opportunities, employees are supported in achieving a healthy work-life balance while contributing to groundbreaking research in a collaborative environment. Located in the historic city of Bath, staff enjoy local discounts and a family-friendly workplace, making it an ideal setting for meaningful and rewarding employment.
