PDRA on InfraRed Adaptive Optics for HyperSpectral Imaging

PDRA on InfraRed Adaptive Optics for HyperSpectral Imaging

Harwell Science and Innovation Campus, Oxfordshire
Salary £33,963 to £39,955 per annum
Full time / 3-year fixed term
Ref: 10976

About Us
Diamond Light Source is the UK’s national synchrotron science facility. By accelerating relativistic electrons, Diamond generates brilliant beams of light from InfraRed (IR) to X-rays: they are used for academic and industry research and development across a range of scientific disciplines. Applications include biology and medicine, physics and chemistry, materials science and engineering, geology and environmental sciences, as well as cultural heritage or archaeology.

Diamond is among the most advanced scientific facilities in the world: its innovative capabilities and talented staff make it at the forefront of the UK and international experimental research.

The MIRIAM beamline B22, has pioneered the development of full-field IR imaging by Focal Plane Array (FPA) and Synchrotron light with applications in life sciences (e.g., real-time biomolecular monitoring within living mammalian cells by image oversampling) and physical sciences (e.g., characterization of novel materials or in situ/operando chemistry using FTIR microspectroscopy by a diffraction limited IR microprobe).

About the Role
We offer an excellent opportunity for a Post-Doctoral Research Associate (PDRA) in Hyperspectral Microscopy/Imaging by Adaptive Optics (AO) and Synchrotron Infrared Radiation at beamline B22 (MIRIAM) of Diamond.

MIRIAM developed a unique AO via a paired set of in-vacuum deformable mirrors, sensorless IR diagnostic and dedicated Graphics User Interface (GUI) to control (in closed/open-loop) the shape of the IR illumination. Ad hoc optimisation algorithms maximise the Synchrotron beam and photon flux toward the IR microscope (see Azizian et al. Optics Letters 2022). Currently, we are exploiting advances in machine learning with the Machine Learning Group at RAL (STFC) to further improve the illumination source for microscopy.
We are seeking an experimental scientist motivated in exploiting the B22 AO research program from method development to science applications. IR AO significantly improves the spectral quality in FTIR microspectroscopy beyond the current standard, as well as increases the spatial resolutions in FPA full-field IR imaging at the highest magnifications. This PDRA project offers unique opportunities for advanced discovery in the study of real-life research samples and experiments via the world-leading adaptive optics capabilities at B22. The PDRA will have the opportunity to develop AO imaging applications, demonstrate new limits in signal detection and establish expertise in high-resolution, high-sensitivity IR imaging.

The ideal candidate is expected to contribute to the internationally competitive in-house/collaborative research programme - together with B22 staff - in any of the multidisciplinary fields carried on at the IR beamline of Diamond, e.g. Biomedical Imaging (drug response at cellular level, biopsies microanalysis), Physical Chemistry of new materials (e.g. MOFs, crystal catalysers/enzymes), Earth and Environmental sciences (microinclusions in volcanic rocks or microplastic pollution), Cultural Heritage (painting degradation or organic/inorganic microinterfaces) Archaeology (microfossils study), Biomineralogy and Space Science (e.g. meteorites or cosmic dust microcomposition).

The position requires active participation at the MIRIAM beamline labs, from sample preparation to optics/software handling, image acquisition and data analysis. Successful scientists will be responsible for running and characterising the AO system across a variety of IR applications, and work in a team with other scientists, engineers, and support groups within Diamond and Soft Condensed Matter group to ensure smooth operation at the MIRIAM beamline B22.

About You
Candidates should hold a degree in science or engineering, with a PhD in research areas overlapping with the IR beamline interests at Diamond.

You should demonstrate knowledge or experience of:
• Visible/fluorescence/laser microscopy or hyperspectral imaging
• Scientific data collection and image analysis
• Scientific/optical instrumentation, and practical use
• IR or Raman spectroscopy or microscopy/imaging (desirable)
• Optimization algorithms, or optics modelling software (desirable)
• Any adaptive optics method (desirable)

You will demonstrate good interpersonal, communication and presentational skills, and the ability to interact effectively with staff and facility users/collaborators at all levels.

Benefits
Diamond offers an exceptional benefits package to support staff in achieving a positive work/life balance. This includes 25 days annual leave plus 13 days of statutory and company holidays, along with flexible working hours and an excellent pension scheme. Staff also have access to a range of amenities on site including a nursery, cafes, a restaurant and sports and leisure facilities. A relocation allowance may also be available where applicable.

To Apply
Please use the online application process to apply and tell us why you believe you are suitable for this role.

The initial closing date for applications is 5th February however applications will be reviewed and interviewed on an ongoing basis until this vacancy is filled.