Research Fellow - Coherent Diffraction Imaging of Quantum Materials and Devices

Full Time Fixed Term until 04/06/2025

We are seeking to appoint a highly motivated Research Fellow to undertake research in the area of coherent diffraction imaging (CDI). This exciting research post is part of the recently funded UKRI FLF project on x-ray imaging of quantum materials and devices.

The role

The aim is to utilise coherent diffraction imaging (CDI) techniques to study quantum phenomena in a range of multifunctional materials and devices using our state-of-the-art in-house x-ray imaging facility and various synchrotron x-ray facilities. Our current focus is on multiferroic quantum materials for energy efficient technologies and lithium-ion batteries.  

You will utilise our facilities to synthesis and characterise materials and devices for synchrotron experiments. We have developed cutting edge tools that include machine learning methods for analysis of data from synchrotron experiments. You will work as a team and jointly with our collaborators to prepare samples, attend synchrotron experiments and analyse the resulting data. Field work will initially take place at the Diamond Light Source.

About you

The successful applicant will have:

• PhD* or equivalent professional qualification and experience in either Physics, Materials Science,  Optoelectronics, Engineering or a related field.
• Knowledge of coherent diffraction imaging (CDI) or related techniques.  
• Competence in the design and fabrication of nanoscale materials and devices.
• CDI synchrotron experimentation on devices experience.
• A working knowledge of a scientific computing language such as Python.
• Knowledge of quantum materials and the related underlying theory.

This is a highly interdisciplinary project, and preference will be given to candidates who show interest and willingness to engage efficiently in interdisciplinary and collaborative research. 

This post is offered on a full-time, fixed term basis for 1 month due to funding requirements, with a possible extension of 3 years, subject to funding.

What we can offer you

Be a part of the University of Southampton, an institution in the top one per cent of world universities and one of the UK’s Russell group research-intensive universities. We have an international reputation for research, teaching and enterprise activities. Working at the University of Southampton gives you access to a wide range of benefits in addition to our competitive rates of pay. Our core benefits include pension scheme membership; a generous annual leave allowance (supplemented by University closure days and public holidays) and excellent family leave arrangements (including maternity, paternity, adoption and parental leave). We will support your long-term future too, with access to the Universities Superannuation Scheme (USS), subsidized health and fitness facilities and a range of discounts. All our benefits can be viewed on the Benefits Explained website.

*Applications for Research Fellow positions will be considered from candidates who are working towards or nearing completion of a relevant PhD qualification.  The title of Research Fellow will be applied upon successful completion of the PhD.  Prior to the qualification being awarded the title of Senior Research Assistant will be given.

We are committed to equality, diversity and inclusion and welcome applicants who support our mission of inclusivity.

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