Research Associate in Quantum Hydrodynamics in Superfluids

Vacancy terms: Full time or job share, fixed term contract until 30 September 2027

Hours per week: 37.5

Advert closes midnight on: 01 September 2024

About the role

We are looking for a Research Associate to join our Research team within the school of Chemistry, exploring quantum vortices in superfluids by using molecules as messengers. Our focus will be on small helium nanodroplets containing a few thousand helium atoms, a size which enables us to use optical spectroscopy to interrogate the molecular probe. This project will advance our understanding of quantum hydrodynamics in superfluids.

The project is led by an internationally leading research team with expertise in helium droplets, spectroscopy and nanoscience. The investigators have demonstrated their capabilities through previous work and have already conducted preliminary experiments to validate the feasibility of the approach. The apparatus, including the UHV helium droplet source, tuneable OPO laser and mass spectrometer, is fully operational, making the project both timely and cost-effective.

About you

With a PhD or equivalent professional qualification and experience in Physics, Physical Chemistry, Materials Science or Nanoscience, you should preferably have experience in working with some aspect of supersonic jets/molecular beams and laser spectroscopy. Familiarity in working with high vacuum systems is essential and we would particularly welcome applications from candidates who have previously worked with helium nanodroplets. This should be supported by evidence of research productivity, such as publications and presentations, particularly for relevant innovative research within the field of instrumental design, physical chemistry and/or physics and material science.

Additional information

Informal enquiries are welcomed and should be directed to Dr Shengfu Yang on sfy1@le.ac.uk. 

As part of the University’s ongoing commitment to professional development, this role will also be considered on a seconded basis for existing staff members. Please ensure this is discussed with your line manager prior to applying. 

The University of Leicester has been changing the world, and changing people’s lives, for 100 years. When you join us, you’ll become part of a community of Citizens of Change, which includes not only our staff and our current students but also thousands of Leicester graduates around the world.

As a diverse and forward-thinking employer, we embed the principles of equity, diversity and inclusion into everything we do. That includes not just our core missions of teaching and research, but also our support for staff, students and our local community through our values of Inspiring, Impactful and Inclusive through our values of Inspiring, Impactful and Inclusive. 

We’re committed to the wellbeing of all our staff and to the sustainability of our environment, on our campus and beyond. We offer a competitive salary package, excellent pension scheme and a generous annual leave allowance, along with opportunities to develop your career in a supportive and collaborative environment.

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