Experimental officer

Review: Ion Beam Analysis Experimental Officer at the University of Surrey

The University of Surrey, a globally recognized institution renowned for its commitment to life-changing education and groundbreaking research, presents an exceptional opportunity for individuals passionate about scientific advancement and hands-on experimental work. The Surrey Ion Beam Centre, an integral part of this dynamic environment, is seeking a dedicated Ion Beam Analysis Experimental Officer to join their team.

This role offers a unique chance to contribute to a world-class national facility funded by the EPSRC. If you are driven by technical problem-solving, enjoy a blend of intricate instrumentation and scientific support, and aspire to be at the forefront of experimental innovation, this position warrants your careful consideration.

Advantages for Your Career Path:

• Pioneering Research Environment: Immerse yourself in cutting-edge research spanning biotechnology, material sciences, and energy. You will be working with state-of-the-art equipment, including a unique, multimodal imaging instrument, and contributing directly to scientific discovery.
• Skill Development and Expertise: This role is a prime opportunity to deepen your knowledge and practical skills in areas such as accelerator physics, beam optics, ion beam systems, vacuum technology, and sophisticated electronic instrumentation. The University actively supports professional development and skills training.
• Collaborative and Cross-Disciplinary Exposure: Work alongside talented academic staff, researchers, and postgraduate students. This collaborative setting fosters cross-disciplinary learning and exposes you to a wide array of scientific applications and methodologies.
• Tangible Impact: Play a pivotal role in operating and advancing critical ion beam capabilities. Your contributions will directly enable high-quality ion beam analysis, empowering researchers to push the boundaries of their fields.
• Career Growth Potential: While this is a fixed-term position, there is a possibility of extension, contingent on funding and performance. This provides a stable platform to build significant experience and expertise within a respected academic institution.

Key Considerations for Aspiring Candidates:

• Technical Foundation: A BSc or BEng (or equivalent) in Physics, Electronic Engineering, Mechanical Engineering, or a closely related discipline is essential.
• Practical Experience: Demonstrable experience in operating, maintaining, or repairing technical scientific equipment is crucial. Familiarity with vacuum systems, electronic instrumentation, control systems, or high voltage is highly valued.
• Beneficial Knowledge: While not strictly mandatory, an understanding of accelerator physics, beam optics, ion beam systems, vacuum systems, or related instrumentation will provide a significant advantage.
• Safety and Compliance: A strong awareness of health & safety practices, radiation safety, and regulatory compliance within a laboratory or instrumentation environment is a fundamental requirement.
• Proactive and Independent Work Ethic: The role demands strong problem-solving skills, initiative, and the ability to work both independently and as part of a cohesive team.
• Organizational Prowess: Excellent organizational, documentation, and communication skills are vital for maintaining logs, records, and effectively supporting users and colleagues.
• Fixed-Term Nature: It is important to note that this is a fixed-term EPSRC-funded position. Candidates should consider this within their long-term career planning.

The Ion Beam Centre at the University of Surrey fosters a vibrant and supportive atmosphere where your technical skills can flourish. This role is ideal for an ambitious individual eager to contribute to significant scientific endeavors and advance their career in a stimulating, world-class research environment.