Laser Scientist / Senior Laser Scientist

Laser Scientist / Senior Laser Scientist
Salary: Band D £40,800 - Band E £56,650
Hours: full-time
Contract type: Permanent
Location: Science and Technology Facilities Council (STFC), Daresbury Laboratory, Warrington, United Kingdom
Closing date for applications: 17/12/2023

Come and do the kind of science that made you want to become a scientist. Explore the unknown and get to grips with the biggest challenges in Big Science.

STFC’s Accelerator Science and Technology Centre (ASTeC) mission is to build the ‘Big Science’ facilities of the future; we design, build and operate particle accelerators and make major contributions to many of the biggest projects in the world today.

About the role:

• We have an exciting opportunity for two laser scientists to join a multidisciplinary and friendly team supporting the CLARA Accelerator Test Facility;
• You will be directly involved in the installation, operation and scientific exploitation of a new commercial high power (120 TW) laser system in combined laser-electron beam experiments;
• As part of the CLARA team, you will engage in machine development activities to ensure that the laser and target area meet performance targets;
• You will help ensure stable and reliable operation of the laser for external users, collaborating with them on experiment design to improve possibilities for successful research;
• You will combine your operational responsibilities with opportunities to support R&D and enhance your research profile.

Up to two roles are available. Based on skills and experience, one role will be appointed at UKRI Band D and one at UKRI Band E.

To receive scheduled training on the use of the commercial 120 TW laser system, candidates must be able to start employment no later than 1st April 2024, ideally before.

Person Specification
Band D
Essential:

• Minimum 2:1 degree in physics, engineering, or a closely related subject (or equivalent experience) ;
• Good knowledge and practical experience with laser technology and optics ;
• Practical experience with high power lasers would be advantageous, however if needed full support will be provided to achieve this experience for outstanding candidates once in role.

Band E
Essential:

• Minimum 2:1 degree in physics, engineering, or a closely related subject (or equivalent experience) ;
• Extensive knowledge and practical experience with laser technology and optics ;
• Practical experience with high power lasers, including their maintenance and application to scientific research. 

A PhD in physics, engineering or a closely related subject (or equivalent experience) would be an advantage and the successful candidates will need to have good interpersonal and communication skills.  

For the Band E role an understanding of fundamental project management concepts and experience with their application to work activities along with managing or providing close direction to staff in a relevant discipline would be advantageous, however if needed full support will be provided to achieve this experience for outstanding candidates once in role. 

What we offer 
We are offering an open-ended contract with a whole host of benefits including: 

• 30 days holiday annually (in addition to 10.5 bank holidays and privilege days);
• Flexible working hours;
• An excellent defined average salary pension scheme;
• Employee shopping/travel discounts;
• Excellent learning and development opportunities;
• Visa Sponsorship for candidates applying outside of the UK. 

What could you achieve with the world-leading facilities and experts of one of Europe's largest research organisations by your side? Join us and discover what's possible.