Applications are invited for a Research Associate, jointly funded via the Cockcroft Institute and Cancer Research UK RadNet Manchester to support the design, development and commissioning of a unique, preclinical proton beamline facility within the Proton Beam Therapy Research Centre based at The Christie NHS Foundation Trust.
You will support development of the beamlines in the PBT research room. The PBT research room, is based in the PBT clinical centre at the Christie. The PBT research room currently has a single horizontal beamline (A) to deliver the proton beam to a number of research end-stations. Beamline A has a scanning nozzle (similar to those in the clinical gantries) and is capable of pencil beam scanning to emulate the beam delivery in the clinical gantries. Alongside work on beamline A you will also be responsible for the design, specification, procurement, construction and commissioning of beamline B. This beamline has a pre-clinical capability with a new optimized scanning nozzle which will be designed to deliver small PBT spots (~1mm) at “normal” as well as FLASH dose rates and scanned at speeds that emulate clinical delivery (typically 3-10 m/s). This ability to mimic dose, and anatomical and biological dosimetry that is relevant to patients, preclinically is a significant design challenge and needs to be combined with a close working relationship with preclinical biologists and clinicians to understand their needs and where possible accommodate these into the design of beamline B and the surrounding laboratory space.
We are seeking to appoint an individual with a PhD (or equivalent) in a relevant subject, with experience in the design of experimental equipment (including building large systems), particle beam optics, Monte Carlo codes and software development. The role will report to Dr Michael Merchant and Prof Rob Appleby. You will be based at the Christie Hospital.
Along with your application, you should submit a single file containing your CV, list of publications, and research statement (max 2 pages).
The Department of Physics and Astronomy is committed to promoting Equality, Diversity, Inclusion and Access through contributing to the University’s social responsibility agenda, demonstrating a commitment to its policies, activities and delivery of initiatives including the Athena SWAN charter for promoting women’s careers in STEMM subjects (science, technology, engineering, mathematics and medicine) in higher education. The Department has held JUNO Champion status since 2016 for its commitment to achieving gender equality which positively promotes inclusivity for all.
For further information, please visit http://www.physics.manchester.ac.uk/about-us/equality-and-diversity/
Blended working arrangements may be considered
Please note that we are unable to respond to enquiries, accept CVs or applications from Recruitment Agencies.
Enquiries about the vacancy, shortlisting and interviews:
Name: Dr Michael Merchant
Email: Michael.merchant@manchester.ac.uk
General enquiries:
Email: hrservices@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.
