The role
The Rosalind Franklin Institute (The Franklin) is a National Research Centre, funded by the UK government through UK Research and Innovation, dedicated to bringing about transformative changes in life science through interdisciplinary research and technology.
The Biological Mass Spectrometry Theme focuses on the development of new instrumentation for mass spectrometric imaging (MSI) allowing the visualisation of molecular distributions at subcellular level and the de-novo structure elucidation of chemical species detected by MSI techniques. The ultimate goal of the Theme is to understand the working mechanism of molecular interaction networks in health and disease and define novel diagnostic and prognostic targets for next generation healthcare.
The project will focus on the development of a novel ion source and atmospheric interface design and the design of associated laser optics . The envisioned instrument will have atmospheric pressure/ambient imaging module using desorption electrospray ionization (DESI), AP-laser desorption ionization (AP-LDI) and combination thereof. In addition to the primary desorption ionization methods, the ion source will feature low-temperature plasma and excimer lamp post-ionization capabilities. The atmospheric interface will comprise a heated metal capillary, an impact declustering surface and a ring electrode ion guide element (“ion funnel”). The postholder’s primary focus will be the implementation of mid-infrared, femtosecond-picosecond resonant frequency laser desorption capability in addition to the modalities listed above. The actual work includes the construction of laser source, modalities for post-desorption ionisation and collecting the ions at atmospheric pressure for mass analysis.
The project will be hosted by by Rosalind Franklin Institute facilities at Harwell, but will involve strong collaborative activities with Dr. Robbie Murray’s research group at Imperial. The project will also involve extensive collaboration with scientists at the National Physical Laboratories (NPL) and Bruker Corporation. The post reports to the RFI's Theme Leads for Biological Mass Spectrometry (Profs Josephine Bunch and Zoltan Takats), and will also work with MS leads of RFI Member Institutions.
About you
Candidates must hold a post-graduate qualification, or equivalent experience, in Physics, Mechanical Engineering, Photonics or related subjects. We are looking for candidates with experience in laser optics development, in mechanical instrument design as well as experience in flow modelling and ion trajectory simulations. A demonstrated aptitude for programming, software engineering and user interface design and experience with developing routinely usable analytical methods are essential for this role.
Before submitting your application please ensure you read the Job Information Pack for full details of this role by clicking on the attachment at the bottom on our website:
https://opportunities.rfi.ac.uk/vacancy/postdoctoral-research-associate-in-mass-spectrometric-instrument-development--499043.html About us
The Rosalind Franklin Institute is a new national Research Centre, funded by the UK government through UK Research and Innovation, dedicated to bringing about transformative changes in life science through interdisciplinary research and technology.
Location: The Franklin is based in Harwell Campus, UK’s innovation hub and well-established as one of the leading science and innovation campuses in Europe.
Closing date: 17th October 2022 at 09:00am
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Location Harwell
Type of Post Full Time
Period of appointment 2 years fixed-term contract
Salary £33,500 - £41,000 per annum
Closing Date 17/10/2022
Ref No 10228
