Technical Specialist (HV Gas Analysis)

at  The University of Manchester

This is an excellent opportunity to join the Faculty’s analytical services group within high voltage platform. A primary responsibility of this role will be supporting the HV research team led by Tony Lujia Chen by providing technical and analysis support to the groups research, working on alternative gases to SF6. SF6 has a very high global warming potential and is widely used in high voltage transmission networks. SF6 is the main source of greenhouse gas emissions in the power transmission industry for companies such as the National Grid. A key factor delaying SF6 replacement is the unknown long-term stability of newer more environmentally friendlier alternatives. To accelerate technology adoption of new SF6-free solutions and enable the clean energy transition, this project focuses on the development of a full-scale demonstrator retro-filled with an SF6 alternative. Where analysis of gases and by-products from the SF6 alternative under long term energisation is vital to the understanding of the long-term equipment performance and safe operation on the transmission network.

We are seeking an enthusiastic and proactive Technical Specialist to join our dynamic Faculty Technical Operations team, which strives to provide a sector leading technical support for our students and staff. The purpose of this role includes but is not limited to:

• Applying analytical expertise to operate instrumentation in areas of analytical chemistry specifically mass spectrometry (EI/CI-MS-FID-TID, ESI-MS, ASAP-MS) and chromatographic separations.
• Leading the development of GC-MS-FID-TCD measurement procedures to obtain quantitative gas analysis results and use other analytical techniques to build a more complete picture of the chemical processes within high voltage gas insulated equipment.
• Providing high quality and reliable advice, guidance, documentation and training to the HV research team and collaborators on your specific area of expertise.
• Working with other platforms when needed in a proactive manner to achieve research outcomes, e.g. XRD, Mechanical Testing, Optical and Electronic, Advanced Manufacturing, Workshops and Surface via the PPMS booking system.

We are seeking a technical specialist with a flexible approach to working within an agile organization therefore the post holder will also be expected to support high voltage group activities working across a variety of techniques and physical locations should the need arise.

What you will get in return:

• Fantastic market leading Pension scheme
• Excellent employee health and wellbeing services including an Employee Assistance Programme
• Exceptional starting annual leave entitlement, plus bank holidays
• Additional paid closure over the Christmas period
• Local and national discounts at a range of major retailers

As an equal opportunities employer we welcome applicants from all sections of the community regardless of age, sex, gender (or gender identity), ethnicity, disability, sexual orientation and transgender status. All appointments are made on merit.
Our University is positive about flexible working – you can find out more here
Hybrid working arrangements may be considered.
Please note that we are unable to respond to enquiries, accept CVs or applications from Recruitment Agencies.
Any recruitment enquiries from recruitment agencies should be directed to People.Recruitment@manchester.ac.uk.
Any CV’s submitted by a recruitment agency will be considered a gift.

• Applying analytical expertise to operate instrumentation in areas of analytical chemistry specifically mass spectrometry (EI/CI-MS-FID-TID, ESI-MS, ASAP-MS) and chromatographic separations.
• Leading the development of GC-MS-FID-TCD measurement procedures to obtain quantitative gas analysis results and use other analytical techniques to build a more complete picture of the chemical processes within high voltage gas insulated equipment.
• Providing high quality and reliable advice, guidance, documentation and training to the HV research team and collaborators on your specific area of expertise.
• Working with other platforms when needed in a proactive manner to achieve research outcomes, e.g. XRD, Mechanical Testing, Optical and Electronic, Advanced Manufacturing, Workshops and Surface via the PPMS booking system