Research Associate in Laser Spectroscopy for Nuclear Structure Studies

Research Associate in Laser Spectroscopy for Nuclear Structure Studies

We wish to appoint an enthusiastic and motivated scientist to support the ongoing research programme in nuclear structure using high resolution laser spectroscopy at the University of Manchester. The key objective of the role is to support and advance the laser spectroscopy programme of the Nuclear Physics Group to investigate nuclei at the extremes of isospin.

The successful candidate will support the development and exploitation of the Collinear Resonance Ionization Spectroscopy (CRIS) experiment at the ISOLDE facility (CERN, Switzerland) and the collinear laser spectroscopy programme at the IGISOL facility (Jyväskylä, Finland). There is also the possibility of joining laser spectroscopy experiments at RISE/BECOLA at the Facility for Rare Isotope Beams (FRIB, USA). This role provides an opportunity to support and lead laser spectroscopy studies of exotic nuclei at a range of international radioactive ion beam facilities.

Responsibilities include:

• Assisting in the development and commissioning of laser spectroscopy equipment at ISOLDE, IGISOL and potentially FRIB.
• Participating in experimental campaigns, installing and configuring ion beam transport, vacuum and high voltage systems, as well as laser systems.
• Collecting and analysing high resolution laser spectroscopy data.
• Collaborating closely with the PI, the Nuclear Physics Group and international partners.
• Frequent travel to research facilities to support and lead experiments.

Qualifications:

• Ph.D. or equivalent in experimental nuclear physics or a closely related field.
• Hands on experience in high resolution laser spectroscopy of radioactive isotopes for nuclear structure studies.
• Experience with ion beam transport, vacuum systems, high voltage systems and laser systems.
• Knowledge of digital data acquisition systems and/or ion trapping techniques is desirable.
• Strong analytical and problem solving skills and the ability to work in a collaborative, international environment.

Benefits:

• Excellent pension scheme
• Employee health and well being services, including an employee assistance programme
• Exceptional starting annual leave entitlement, plus bank holidays
• Paid closure over the Christmas period
• Local and national discounts at a range of major retailers

Equal opportunities - The University of Manchester values a diverse workforce and welcomes applications from all sections of the community, regardless of age, sex, gender, ethnicity, disability, sexual orientation or transgender status. All appointments are made on merit.