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- Tasks: Join a dynamic team to develop cutting-edge particle detectors and contribute to groundbreaking research.
- Company: University of Birmingham, a leader in physics research with a commitment to diversity and inclusion.
- Benefits: Competitive salary, opportunities for international travel, and a supportive research environment.
- Why this job: Make a real impact in particle physics while collaborating with top researchers at prestigious facilities like CERN.
- Qualifications: PhD or nearing completion in Experimental Particle Physics; strong analytical and communication skills required.
- Other info: Engage in a vibrant academic community with excellent career development opportunities.
The predicted salary is between 36636 - 46049 £ per year.
Location: University of Birmingham, Edgbaston, Birmingham UK
Full time starting salary is normally in the range £36,636 to £46,049 with potential progression once in post to £48,822
Grade: 7
Full Time, Fixed Term contract up to September 2027
Closing date: 3rd February 2026
UK and International travel may be required for this role.
Background
To create and contribute to the creation of knowledge by undertaking a specified range of activities within the research programme of the Elementary Particle Physics Group. To work on detector development and contribute to future experiments dedicated to kaon physics. To work on particle identification and tracking detectors, including simulation and design aspects, and on research and development of photon detectors in the context of the DRD4 collaboration.
The Birmingham Particle Physics group has a vacancy for a Research Fellow working on detector developments to contribute to future experiments dedicated to kaon physics. Specifically, the successful applicant will work on development of particle identification and tracking detectors, including simulation and design aspects, and on research and development of photon detectors in the context of the DRD4 collaboration. The post holder will be based in Birmingham and must be willing to travel and spend periods at CERN and J-PARC Laboratories.
The Group currently has 12 academic staff, 17 post‑doctoral researchers and engineers, 3 support staff and 19 research students. Beyond kaon physics, our present activities include ATLAS and LHCb experiments at the LHC, the future Brookhaven Electron Ion Collider, and non‑accelerator interests in direct Dark Matter searches. We operate substantial laboratory space, including a 200 m² set of clean room facilities, and we maintain a Tier 2 site as part of the UK contribution to LHC world‑wide distributed computing.
The School of Physics and Astronomy is an Institute of Physics Juno Champion since 2014 and holder of the Athena SWAN Silver Award. Both initiatives recognise the School’s commitment to promote diversity and equality, and to encourage better practice for all members of the community, whilst also working towards developing an equitable working culture in which all students and staff can achieve their full potential.
Role Summary
- Work within Particle Physics research grants and projects and contribute to writing bids
- Work within and support the activities of the Elementary Particle Physics Group related to kaon physics.
- Work with local, national and international collaborators to successfully deliver high quality research outcomes
- Analyse and interpret research findings and results
- Contribute to generating funding
- Contribute to licensing or spin‑out deals with demonstrated commercial success and/or public understanding of the discipline or similar
Main Duties
- Take a prominent role in delivering the research goals of the group
- Conduct a research program, defined in agreement with the group
- Fulfil group responsibilities on development of new detectors for particle detection and identification, and in research and development on photon detectors in the context of the DRD4 collaboration
- Conduct individual and collaborative research projects
- Contribute to writing bids for research funding
- Collect, analyse and interpret data related to the research project
- Apply knowledge in a way which develops new intellectual understanding
- Disseminate research findings for publication, research seminars etc
- Supervise students on research related work and provide guidance to PhD students where appropriate to the discipline
- Communicate complex information and material of a specialist or highly technical nature
- Contribute to developing new models, techniques and methods
- Contribute to departmental/School research-related activities and research-related administration
- Contribute to enterprise, business development and/or public engagement activities of manifest benefit to the Department and the University
- Provide guidance, as required, to support staff and any students who may be assisting with the research
- Deal with problems that may affect the achievement of research objectives and deadlines
- Continually update own knowledge and understanding in field or specialism
- Ensure compliance with health and safety in all aspects of work
- Promote equality and values diversity acting as a role model and fostering an inclusive working culture
- Travel and spend periods at CERN and J-PARC Laboratories as necessary
Person Specification
- Hold or about to attain a PhD (or near to completion) in Experimental Particle Physics or another relevant scientific discipline
- Proven ability in research and evidence of quality research outputs in experimental particle physics
- High level analytical capability
- Ability to communicate complex information clearly
- Fluency in relevant models, techniques or methods of experimental particle physics and ability to contribute to developing new ones
- Ability to assess resource requirements and use resources effectively
- Excellent planning and time management skills to ensure your research objectives are achieved on schedule
- Ability to work effectively both independently and as part of a research team
- Contribute to the planning and organising of the research programme and/or specific research project
- Co‑ordinate own work with others to avoid conflict or duplication of effort
- Knowledge of the protected characteristics of the Equality Act 2010, and how to actively ensure in day‑to‑day activity in own area that those with protected characteristics are treated equally and fairly
- Experience of hardware, instrumentation and modern data analysis techniques for particle physics experiments
- Proven track record in particle research instrumentation, and computing (C++, Python)
Contact
Informal enquiries to Cristina Lazzeroni, email: c.lazzeroni@bham.ac.uk
Application Conditions
Use of AI in applications: We want to understand your genuine interest in the role and for the written elements of your application to accurately reflect your own communication style. Applications that rely too heavily on AI tools can appear generic and lack the detail we need to assess your skills and experience. Such applications will unlikely be progressed to interview.
Diversity and Inclusion
We believe there is no such thing as a 'typical' member of University of Birmingham staff and that diversity in its many forms is a strength that underpins the exchange of ideas, innovation and debate at the heart of University life. We are committed to proactively addressing the barriers experienced by some groups in our community and are proud to hold Athena SWAN, Race Equality Charter and Disability Confident accreditations. We have an Equality Diversity and Inclusion Centre that focuses on continuously improving the University as a fair and inclusive place to work where everyone has the opportunity to succeed. We are also committed to sustainability, which is a key part of our strategy. You can find out more about our work to create a fairer university for everyone on our website.
Research Fellow - School of Physics and Astronomy - 106876 - Grade 7 employer: University of Birmingham
Contact Detail:
University of Birmingham Recruiting Team
StudySmarter Expert Advice 🤫
We think this is how you could land Research Fellow - School of Physics and Astronomy - 106876 - Grade 7
✨Tip Number 1
Network like a pro! Reach out to current or former researchers in the School of Physics and Astronomy. A friendly chat can give you insider info about the team and the role, plus it shows your genuine interest.
✨Tip Number 2
Prepare for the interview by diving deep into kaon physics and the latest detector technologies. We want to see your passion and knowledge shine through when discussing your ideas and experiences.
✨Tip Number 3
Showcase your collaborative spirit! Highlight any past projects where you worked with diverse teams. The more we see your ability to work well with others, the better!
✨Tip Number 4
Don’t forget to apply through our website! It’s the best way to ensure your application gets the attention it deserves. Plus, it shows you’re serious about joining our awesome team.
We think you need these skills to ace Research Fellow - School of Physics and Astronomy - 106876 - Grade 7
Some tips for your application 🫡
Be Yourself: When you're writing your application, let your personality shine through! We want to see your genuine interest in the role and how you communicate. Avoid using AI tools too much, as we’re looking for your unique voice.
Tailor Your Application: Make sure to customise your application to highlight your relevant experience in experimental particle physics. Mention specific projects or skills that align with the job description, especially around detector development and research contributions.
Showcase Your Achievements: Don’t hold back on sharing your accomplishments! Whether it’s publications, successful projects, or collaborations, we want to know what you’ve achieved in your field. This is your chance to impress us with your track record!
Check Your Details: Before hitting send, double-check your application for any typos or errors. A polished application shows attention to detail, which is super important in research roles. And remember, apply through our website for the best chance!
How to prepare for a job interview at University of Birmingham
✨Know Your Research Inside Out
Before the interview, dive deep into the specifics of your research area, especially related to kaon physics and detector development. Be prepared to discuss your previous work and how it aligns with the goals of the Elementary Particle Physics Group.
✨Showcase Your Collaboration Skills
This role involves working with local and international collaborators, so highlight any past experiences where you successfully collaborated on research projects. Share examples that demonstrate your ability to communicate complex information clearly and effectively.
✨Prepare for Technical Questions
Expect questions about particle identification, tracking detectors, and data analysis techniques. Brush up on your knowledge of C++ and Python, as well as any relevant models or methods in experimental particle physics. Being able to articulate your technical skills will set you apart.
✨Emphasise Your Commitment to Diversity
The University values diversity and inclusion, so be ready to discuss how you can contribute to an equitable working culture. Share your understanding of the Equality Act 2010 and any experiences you have that demonstrate your commitment to promoting diversity in research settings.
