This role is funded through the Plymouth Materials Characterisation Network (PMCN), which is supported by an investment from the European Regional Development Fund (ERDF).
This new role has been created as part of an EU-funded research collaboration project supporting academia & industry within the South-West of England. You will be jointly responsible for the day-to-day running and maintenance of our varied analytical electron microscopy suite, also acquired through EU funds. There are presently four electron microscopes on site, but PEMC will be moving into its new home in 2022 where a further four electron microscopes will come online.
You will join a team of other technicians and academics based within the Plymouth Electron Microscopy Centre, a core facility for the Faculty of Science and Engineering on the main, city centre campus within the University of Plymouth.
The role reports to the PMCN project director in the first instance, and is designed to engage with local industry and internal academics in order to develop new collaborations between external clients and the university environment. In addition to this, the role will provide technical support and academic guidance to both students and staff using the facility, particularly with respect to the project design and optimum, measurable outcomes, particularly within the research groups based in the School of Geography, Earth & Environmental Sciences. The technical specialist will be strongly encouraged to engage with the relevant academic departments to develop a measurable research output themselves.
You will have a first degree in a related scientific discipline (i.e. Environmental, Chemical, Geological or Planetary Sciences), alongside a PhD or equivalent qualification, or relevant technical experience working within the laboratory setting. Relevant experience using EM based technologies is essential to this new role, and experience of FIB-SEM, XFM, or EPMA specifically would be desirable.
As part of an EU-funded project, this role will require the post-holder to engage with external clients or partners in a professional manner, as well as work with students and colleagues within the university environment. The ability to prioritise and complete work to deadlines in both the commercial and academic environment is essential, and the desire to promote and develop electron microscopy techniques whilst developing an independent research profile is strongly encouraged.
A current full driving licence and willingness to travel is desirable as you may be required to travel to remote areas not easily accessible by public transport.
Please contact PEMC Director, Dr Natasha Stephen, for further information or informal enquiries. natasha.stephen@plymouth.ac.uk or 01752 586 125.
This is a full-time position working 37 hours per week on a fixed-term basis until 30th June 2023 due to funding.
Flexible working options including job share will be considered.
We offer a competitive salary package and a generous pension and holiday scheme. We also offer a range of other benefits, including ongoing development opportunities.
Please note, due to the COVID-19 pandemic the University is currently implementing a number of safety measures as per Government advice therefore the successful applicant may be required to work from home in the first instance.
The University of Plymouth is a diverse, welcoming community where everyone makes a difference and is encouraged to bring their whole selves to work. To find out more about our inclusive community, initiatives such as Athena Swan and the Race Equality Charter and our range of benefits / support mechanisms such as flexible working, staff networks and enhanced maternity, paternity & adoption leave please visit our Equality, Diversity and Inclusion webpages
We particularly welcome applicants from under-represented groups such as BAME/BIPOC and LGBT+.
Job Description