Instrument Scientist - TOSCA-VESPA

at  Science and Technology Facilities Council STFC

ABOUT YOU

We are looking for someone with relevant research experience and an interest in instrument design. In particular, experience of ray-tracing simulations (e.g. McStas, VITESS) and capability in using inelastic neutron scattering are required. You will work well in a collaborative environment and will have broad interests in order to work effectively with our users. You will have many ideas for your own research and will be able to communicate this with clarity and enthusiasm.

ABOUT US

The ISIS Neutron & Muon Source is a world-leading centre for research in the physical and life sciences at the STFC. Our suite of neutron and muon instruments gives unique insights into the properties of materials at the atomic scale. We support a national and international community of more than 3000 scientists for research into subjects ranging from clean energy and the environment, pharmaceuticals and health care, through to nanotechnology and materials engineering, catalysis and polymers and on to fundamental studies of materials.
The Molecular Spectroscopy Group at ISIS operates four world-class inelastic neutron spectrometers: IRIS, OSIRIS, TOSCA and VESUVIO. They are used for investigations of the dynamics of materials covering timescales from the femto-second to the nano-second range and energies from μeV to eV. A wide range of disciplines make use of the Group’s instruments. There are active research programs in catalysis, proton conductors, battery components, soft matter and biological materials.
TOSCA is a neutron spectrometer that is optimised for vibrational spectroscopy, it is the neutron analogue of conventional infrared and Raman spectrometers. The users are predominantly from chemistry and materials science backgrounds. The science is wide-ranging, however, there is a very strong program in catalysis and gas separation studies.

QUALIFICATIONS:

• Educated to PhD level in physics, chemistry, materials science, or similar discipline (or imminent award of a PhD) (S)

KNOWLEDGE AND EXPERIENCE:

• Experience of design in scientific instrumentation or sample environment (S&I)
• Demonstrable potential (Band D) or proven ability (Band E) to pursue an independent research program (S&I)
• A fundamental understanding of the neutron spectroscopy technique (I)
• Computational skills, including a working knowledge of coding languages (e.g. C++, Python, Matlab) (S&I)

OTHER SKILLS:

• Good interpersonal and communication/written skills (S&I)
• Ability to work independently and in a team (I)
• Good appreciation of the safety responsibilities of working at a research facility using neutrons (I)

• Assist in the design and construction of the VESPA spectrometer
• Provide support to users on TOSCA, from proposal submission through experimental time to data analysis
• Conduct a scientific research program that includes the use of the spectrometers in the group (IRIS, OSIRIS, TOSCA and VESUVIO) as well as other instruments at ISIS and other neutron sources
• Contribute to developments and improvements on TOSCA, including on the instrument itself, sample environment equipment and data reduction and analysis methods
• Participate fully in the scientific life of the Molecular Spectroscopy Group, as well as that of the facility more widely
• Promotion of the Molecular Spectroscopy Group’s capabilities with new user groups and communities, with a view to expanding the user base