Post-doctoral Research Associate: Analysis of Surface X-ray Diffraction Data

Post-doctoral Research Associate: Analysis of Surface X-ray Diffraction Data
Harwell Science and Innovation Campus, Oxfordshire
Salary £33,963 – 39,955, dependent upon skills and experience
Full time 2 Years fixed term

Excellent two-year opportunity for an experience researcher with existing expertise in ANAROD, GenX or similar analysis software.

About Us
Diamond Light Source is a synchrotron light source and a leading scientific facility of its type in the world. Located on the Harwell Science and Innovation Campus in South Oxfordshire, we host research facilities supporting cutting edge research in all fields of science.

About the Role
We have an exciting opportunity for an experienced researcher to be part of a joint Imperial College/Diamond Light Source project as a PDRA. This is a strategic appointment to strengthen the links between the two institutes. In this role you will be focused on determining the structure of complex oxide interfaces of relevance to solid oxide fuel cells.

Diamond’s facilities include a high-resolution X-ray diffraction beamline for investigating the structure of surfaces and interfaces under a wide range of different environmental conditions, ranging from UHV surface science to soft condensed matter and biological systems. Surface X-ray diffraction and Crystal Truncation Rod (CTR) analysis is a key technique to understand the structure of these interfaces with high resolution and in a variety of operando environments. A robust analysis methodology is key to exploiting the method and a critical step in the experiment.

In this position you will focus on the analysis of existing CTR data recorded under ultrahigh vacuum (UHV), oxygen environments and at different temperatures. Further responsibilities include:
• Leading the analysis of the surface X-ray diffraction data recorded from several oxide interfaces where several high-quality datasets are already available.
• Developing your own research ideas and proposals relating to this theme and may include development of the analysis methods, software, or application of the method to novel interfaces.
• Opportunities to be involved in other related experiments including sample preparation, beamtime experiments and data analysis.

The position will involve working across both campuses although the base will be at Diamond Light Source where there are a small team of scientists working on similar analysis techniques.

About You
You will hold a PhD in an appropriate field.

You should have proven experience in relevant data analysis software (ANAROD, GenX or similar analysis software) and programming for truncation rod analysis.

You will be highly motivated and willing to actively develop your own research ideas and proposals.

You will have good interpersonal, communication and presentational skills to interact with a range of colleagues and stakeholders.

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 closing date for applications is 14th March 2021.