BACKGROUND
Applications are invited for a research associate (PDRA) specializing in instrument development to join a joint project between the University of Manchester and Oxford University to develop operando cells for X-Ray Photoelectron Spectroscopy (XPS) under ambient conditions.
You will join a vibrant team of researchers and technical specialists with access to world-class X-ray Photoelectron spectroscopy facilities and a proven track record of cutting-edge instrument development.
You will be based in the Photon Science Institute, a diverse and collaborative interdisciplinary research institute dedicated to characterization and instrument/technique development. You will also be affiliated with the department of chemistry, one of the largest and most research-intensive chemistry departments in the UK.
Applications are welcomed from individuals who hold a PhD in physics, chemistry, materials science or another related field and have experience in the development of ultra-high vacuum instrumentation and/or technique development within X-Ray Photoelectron Spectroscopy.
Overall Purpose of the Job
The technique of “Near-Ambient Pressure XPS” has been a research tool for the past decade or so, enabling operando measurements of surface chemical processes. However, it is limited by low pressures (~ mbar) and complex, dedicated instrumentation, meaning it remains a relatively niche technique for energy materials researchers. Our collaborators in Oxford, Prof. Robert Weatherup and group, have developed operando cells which can perform XPS measurements in > 1 bar pressure, primarily demonstrating their use at synchrotron facilities (https://link.springer.com/article/10.1007/s11244-018-1075-2) enabling the study of samples under realistic conditions (both > bar pressures of gas and liquids).
The purpose of this role is to work with the Weatherup group, industrial partners and our XPS technical team in Manchester to adapt their cell design for use in a conventional lab-source XPS instrument. By developing a user-friendly, safe and convenient platform for >1 bar operando XPS that can be retrofit into a standard XPS instrument we intend to transform it from a niche, specialist technique into an accessible research tool for academia and industry.
Once developed, the PDRA will be responsible for benchmarking their design for performance, reliability and safety. Finally, we will demonstrate them by using them to study key catalytic reactions important to the forthcoming energy transition.
The Department of Chemistry is strongly committed to promoting equality and diversity, including the Athena SWAN Charter for gender equality in higher education. The Department holds a Silver Award which recognises their good practice in relation to gender; including flexible working arrangements, family-friendly policies, and support to allow staff to achieve a good work-life balance. We particularly welcome applications from women for this post. Appointment will always be made on merit. For further information, please visit http://www.chemistry.manchester.ac.uk/about-us/athena-swan/
What you will get in return:
As an equal opportunities employer we support an inclusive working environment and welcome applicants from all sections of the community regardless of age, disability, ethnicity, gender, gender expression, religion or belief, sex, sexual orientation and transgender status. All appointments are made on merit.
Our University is positive about flexible working – you can find out more here
Please note that we are unable to respond to enquiries, accept CVs or applications from Recruitment Agencies.
Any CV’s submitted by a recruitment agency will be considered a gift.
Enquiries about the vacancy, shortlisting and interviews:
Name: Alex Walton
Email: alex.walton@manchester.ac.uk
General enquiries:
Email: People.recruitment@manchester.ac.uk
Technical support:
https://jobseekersupport.jobtrain.co.uk/support/home
This vacancy will close for applications at midnight on the closing date.
Please see the link below for the Further Particulars document which contains the person specification criteria.
Please be aware that due to the number of applications we are unfortunately not able to provide individual feedback on your application.
