Post-doctoral Research Associate

Post-doctoral Research Associate – Developing 3D printing materials and techniques for neutron scattering applications

Science and Technology Facilities Council

Salary: £48,802 per annum. 

Hours: Full time 

Contract Type: Fixed Term (24 months)

Location: Science and Technology Facilities Council, Rutherford Appleton Laboratory Harwell, Oxfordshire AND PSI CH, PSI, Forschungsstrasse 111, 5232 Villigen, Switzerland

Background

ISIS Neutron and Muon Source is a world-leading centre for research at the STFC Rutherford Appleton Laboratory. Our neutron and muon instruments give unique insights into the properties of materials on the atomic scale.

ISIS Neutron and Muon Source and PSI are the UK’s and Switzerland’s leading national research facilities for studying condensed matter down to the atomic scale using both neutrons and muons. Both facilities have strong scientific user programmes with extensive national and international links. This has resulted in the formation of a collaborative project between ISIS and PSI, looking to further develop 3D printing of neutron absorbing materials to create useful components for neutron instrumentation.

We are looking to appoint a highly motivated research scientist to embark on a two-year postdoctoral position. This will be a shared knowledge exchange role between PSI and ISIS that will work between both locations, spending time at both ISIS Harwell UK and PSI Switzerland. The principal duties are to work with the science and technical teams to develop 3D printing techniques for neutron absorbing materials.

This new research position is an exciting opportunity to work at both facilities working in collaboration with scientists, engineers and technicians to develop 3D printing methods using Fused Deposition Modelling (FDM) suitable for neutron instrumentation. 

Topics of research include but not limited to:

• FDM extruder technology (based on polymer);
• Choice of base polymer and effect of additives on filament and printed component properties ;
• Resin printing technology ;
• Testing different resins in combination with the fillers.

List of Duties / Work Programme / Responsibilities

• Conduct high quality research using 3D printing techniques;
• Develop new 3D printing materials for neutron instrumentation;
• Evaluating the potential of RESIN printers related to abrasive additives;
• Performing neutronic measurements at SINQ/ISIS beamlines (BOA);
• Provide supervision for students and team members (dependent on experience);
• Disseminate research via publications and conference presentations.

You will interact with a broad range of ISIS and PSI staff, and form part of our new collaboration between the two facilities. It is expected to present your scientific work at meetings (both at ISIS and PSI) and other international conferences.

Please be aware that on occasions you will be working in classified radiation areas and in relevant science support laboratories and beamlines. You will also on occasions be asked to work out-of-hours when required, at night or weekends, and to travel abroad (attend conferences etc.).

Requirements for the role

• PhD in a physical science or related field;
• Some proven experience in 3D printing;
• Experience of relevant software tools for 3D printing;
• Evidence of practical engineering skills;
• Knowledge in FFD printing;
• Good communication and presentation skills.

For any further information or questions about the role please contact Doctor Robert Bewley Robert.bewley@stfc.ac.uk. 

STFC offers our staff a wide range of excellent non-paying employee benefits, including but not limited to:

• 30 days holiday (in addition to 10.5 bank holidays and privilege days);
• Flexible working hours;
• An excellent average salary pension scheme;
• Excellent learning and development opportunities.

How to apply

To see more details and to apply please visit our job board at (https://www.careersportal.co.uk/UKRI-careers/jobs/post-doctoral-research-associate-4597 ). Applicants are required to provide a CV and Cover Letter providing evidence of how they meet each of the essential criteria.

Closing Date: 22nd September 2024