Science & Technology Facilities Council (STFC)
Didcot, Oxfordshire
Laser Scientist Science and Technology Facilities Council Salary: £52,907 - £58,198 per annum (dependent on skills and experience) Hours: Full-Time Contract Type: Fixed Term Contract (4 years) Location: Science and Technology Facilities Council, Rutherford Appleton Laboratory, Harwell Campus, Oxfordshire OX11 0DE Come and discover the kind of impact that you can make when you work with some of the best facilities and brightest scientists in the world. An exciting opportunity exists to join the Central Laser Facility (CLF) at the Rutherford Appleton Laboratory to work on the development of lasers driving next-generation particle accelerators and X-ray sources. The goal of this project is to design, install and test next-generation high energy femtosecond laser sources operating at 100 Hz to 1 kHz pulse rates. We are seeking to develop and demonstrate a reliable 100 TW peak power laser operating at the unprecedented pulse rate of 100 Hz. The pump source for the main broadband power amplifier will rely on the CLFs proprietary DiPOLE laser amplifier technology. Alongside, research and development work will be carried out to scale the pulse rate to 1 kHz. These short-pulsed, high peak and average power lasers will be used to drive plasma accelerators for the realisation of compact, high brightness secondary particle and radiation sources. This unprecedented operational regime will unlock unprecedented scientific, industrial and healthcare applications and open commercialisation opportunities. The CLF hosts a large range of cutting-edge lasers and experimental stations which are developed and operated by expert scientists, engineers and technicians. The CLF works with academic and industrial users to deliver science over a broad range of fields. We have around 200 staff and are a very friendly, outgoing and externally facing department. We have a welcoming and inclusive culture, and you will find that people will naturally help and support you. About the role: You will join the Centre for Advanced Laser Technology and Applications (CALTA) team and support the high peak power 100 Hz and 1 kHz projects by developing laser designs, setting up prototype systems and conducting experimental test campaigns. You will be part of a team of laser scientists, engineers and technicians and will engage with the wider CLF to understand the implications of plasma accelerator physics on laser driver specifications. You will take part in international collaborations and routinely engage with external experts. You will have the opportunity to present your research at international conferences and publish in high-profile peer-reviewed journals. Key areas of the role include: Contributing significantly to the development of new lasers, by performing the optical design of laser setups and diagnostics and by defining the specifications of laser components. Modelling broadband pulse amplification and propagation of chirped-pulsed amplification (CPA) systems. Defining and conducting proof-of-concept tests to de-risk key component technologies. Liaising with external suppliers and contractors to determine existing capabilities and future requirements and develop collaborative links with external research laboratories. Working as part of a team liaising with engineers to design key mechanical equipment for prototype testing. Lead installation and testing of prototype components in the laser laboratory to validate designs and technological solutions. About you: You should have significant knowledge of laser science and nonlinear optics. You will ideally be familiar with solid state laser design and have experience of broadband laser pulse amplification and diagnostics. You will have experience in modelling or simulations and be able to apply that knowledge to the design of laser systems. Person specification: The following criteria will be assessed at Shortlisting (S), Interview (I) or both (S&I) A PhD in physics or closely related subject (or equivalent experience). (S) Post-doctoral research experience (or equivalent relevant experience) with a record of independent research or autonomous thinking. (S&I) Significant knowledge of optics, nonlinear optics and solid-state laser physics. (S&I) Experience in modelling, optical design and testing of short-pulse lasers and diagnostics. (S&I) Experience in publishing in peer-reviewed journals and/or conference proceedings. (S) Competence with Matlab and/or LabVIEW, and Zemax/OpticStudio or other equivalent optical design software. (S&I) Knowledge of safety related issues and procedures for operating lasers. (S&I) Good interpersonal skills and ability to work as part of a diverse team. (I) Additional information: The role involves working in a laser laboratory. For more information about the role, please visit or contact . Our Benefits: STFC values their employees by offering a benefits package designed to provide an excellent work/life balance including 30 days annual leave, 10.5 public and privilege holidays, flexible working hours, exceptional average salary pension scheme, social and sporting activities and societies and a subsidised restaurant. We ask some of the biggest questions in the universe, to answer some of the biggest challenges in the world. Whatever our role, we have the freedom to explore, learn and connect, as part of a community that loves to share knowledge and support one another. As one of Europes largest research organisations, this is a place where theres always something new to learn about the world around us, about your career, but most of all, about yourself. Join us and discover whats possible! Please note, if you will require sponsorship to work in the UK, as part of your sponsorship application, you and any dependants travelling with you, will be required to pay costs directly to The Home Office for the application before you start your role with us. UKRI is normally able to reimburse some, or all of these fees after you have become an employee and this can be discussed with the Hiring Manager. For more information, please visit or contact . JBRP1_UKTJ
Laser Scientist Science and Technology Facilities Council Salary: £52,907 - £58,198 per annum (dependent on skills and experience) Hours: Full-Time Contract Type: Fixed Term Contract (4 years) Location: Science and Technology Facilities Council, Rutherford Appleton Laboratory, Harwell Campus, Oxfordshire OX11 0DE Come and discover the kind of impact that you can make when you work with some of the best facilities and brightest scientists in the world. An exciting opportunity exists to join the Central Laser Facility (CLF) at the Rutherford Appleton Laboratory to work on the development of lasers driving next-generation particle accelerators and X-ray sources. The goal of this project is to design, install and test next-generation high energy femtosecond laser sources operating at 100 Hz to 1 kHz pulse rates. We are seeking to develop and demonstrate a reliable 100 TW peak power laser operating at the unprecedented pulse rate of 100 Hz. The pump source for the main broadband power amplifier will rely on the CLFs proprietary DiPOLE laser amplifier technology. Alongside, research and development work will be carried out to scale the pulse rate to 1 kHz. These short-pulsed, high peak and average power lasers will be used to drive plasma accelerators for the realisation of compact, high brightness secondary particle and radiation sources. This unprecedented operational regime will unlock unprecedented scientific, industrial and healthcare applications and open commercialisation opportunities. The CLF hosts a large range of cutting-edge lasers and experimental stations which are developed and operated by expert scientists, engineers and technicians. The CLF works with academic and industrial users to deliver science over a broad range of fields. We have around 200 staff and are a very friendly, outgoing and externally facing department. We have a welcoming and inclusive culture, and you will find that people will naturally help and support you. About the role: You will join the Centre for Advanced Laser Technology and Applications (CALTA) team and support the high peak power 100 Hz and 1 kHz projects by developing laser designs, setting up prototype systems and conducting experimental test campaigns. You will be part of a team of laser scientists, engineers and technicians and will engage with the wider CLF to understand the implications of plasma accelerator physics on laser driver specifications. You will take part in international collaborations and routinely engage with external experts. You will have the opportunity to present your research at international conferences and publish in high-profile peer-reviewed journals. Key areas of the role include: Contributing significantly to the development of new lasers, by performing the optical design of laser setups and diagnostics and by defining the specifications of laser components. Modelling broadband pulse amplification and propagation of chirped-pulsed amplification (CPA) systems. Defining and conducting proof-of-concept tests to de-risk key component technologies. Liaising with external suppliers and contractors to determine existing capabilities and future requirements and develop collaborative links with external research laboratories. Working as part of a team liaising with engineers to design key mechanical equipment for prototype testing. Lead installation and testing of prototype components in the laser laboratory to validate designs and technological solutions. About you: You should have significant knowledge of laser science and nonlinear optics. You will ideally be familiar with solid state laser design and have experience of broadband laser pulse amplification and diagnostics. You will have experience in modelling or simulations and be able to apply that knowledge to the design of laser systems. Person specification: The following criteria will be assessed at Shortlisting (S), Interview (I) or both (S&I) A PhD in physics or closely related subject (or equivalent experience). (S) Post-doctoral research experience (or equivalent relevant experience) with a record of independent research or autonomous thinking. (S&I) Significant knowledge of optics, nonlinear optics and solid-state laser physics. (S&I) Experience in modelling, optical design and testing of short-pulse lasers and diagnostics. (S&I) Experience in publishing in peer-reviewed journals and/or conference proceedings. (S) Competence with Matlab and/or LabVIEW, and Zemax/OpticStudio or other equivalent optical design software. (S&I) Knowledge of safety related issues and procedures for operating lasers. (S&I) Good interpersonal skills and ability to work as part of a diverse team. (I) Additional information: The role involves working in a laser laboratory. For more information about the role, please visit or contact . Our Benefits: STFC values their employees by offering a benefits package designed to provide an excellent work/life balance including 30 days annual leave, 10.5 public and privilege holidays, flexible working hours, exceptional average salary pension scheme, social and sporting activities and societies and a subsidised restaurant. We ask some of the biggest questions in the universe, to answer some of the biggest challenges in the world. Whatever our role, we have the freedom to explore, learn and connect, as part of a community that loves to share knowledge and support one another. As one of Europes largest research organisations, this is a place where theres always something new to learn about the world around us, about your career, but most of all, about yourself. Join us and discover whats possible! Please note, if you will require sponsorship to work in the UK, as part of your sponsorship application, you and any dependants travelling with you, will be required to pay costs directly to The Home Office for the application before you start your role with us. UKRI is normally able to reimburse some, or all of these fees after you have become an employee and this can be discussed with the Hiring Manager. For more information, please visit or contact . JBRP1_UKTJ
University of Glasgow
Job Purpose This PET Data Analyst and Modeller post focuses on developing and applying analysis pipelines for complex total-body PET imaging data from the MRC-funded Scotland Total-Body PET facility. The role involves performing kinetic modelling, parametric, and network analysis, as well as validating results using ex vivo and in vitro techniques. You will also conduct developmental and translational work using preclinical total-body data acquired across the Scotland facility. A key part of your responsibilities will be to lead research and innovation outcomes by designing protocols, collecting and analysing data, and publishing your findings in peer-reviewed journals. This is a highly collaborative position where you'll interact directly and indirectly with a major multidisciplinary team, including staff and students from the Molecular Imaging Facility at the Cancer Research UK Scotland Institute, the Whole-Body Imaging Facility and the Imaging Centre of Excellence at the University of Glasgow, as well as NHS colleagues at the West of Scotland PET Centre. This includes physicists, technicians, radiochemists, image analysts, research scientists, and clinical researchers. You'll also collaborate with teams at the University of Edinburgh, a partner institution on the Total-Body PET Scotland Facility project. The post-holder will be based at the University of Glasgow. Main Duties and Responsibilities Take a leading role in the development and validation of new image analysis pipelines for complex total-body PET datasets, including kinetic modelling, parametric, and network analysis. Support the planning, design, and management of new total-body PET studies while also optimising existing pipelines for acquisition, reconstruction, processing, and analysis. Establish and maintain your research profile and reputation and that of the University of Glasgow/School/Research Group/area, including establishing and sustaining a track record of independent and joint publications of international quality, enhancing the research impact in terms of economic/societal benefit, and gathering indicators of esteem. Document research output including analysis and interpretation of all data, maintaining records and databases, drafting technical/progress reports and papers as appropriate. Presentation of work at international and national conferences, at internal and external seminars, colloquia and workshops to develop and enhance our research and/or impact profile. Continuously update knowledge and skills in the field of PET acquisition, reconstruction, processing, and analysis. Securely manage and archive research data, maintain accurate Standard Operating Procedures (SOPs), and ensure all Health & Safety and regulatory protocols are followed. Take a leading role in team/group meetings/seminars/workshops and School research group/area activities to enhance the wider knowledge, outputs and culture of the School/College. Take the lead in the organisation, supervision, mentoring and training of undergraduate and/or postgraduate students and less experienced members of the project team on PET imaging, kinetic modelling, and other image processing techniques to ensure their effective development. Contribute as appropriate to teaching activities (e.g. demonstrating, etc) and associated administration, as may be assigned through the School in consultation with your line manager. Take a leading role in developing and maintaining collaborations with colleagues across the research group/area/School/College/University and wider community (e.g. academic and industrial partners). Engage in personal, professional and career development, to enhance both specialist and transferable skills in accordance with desired career trajectory. Undertake any other reasonable duties as required by your line manager and the Head of School. Contribute to the enhancement of the University's international profile in line with University strategy. Knowledge, Qualifications, Skills, and Experience Knowledge/Qualifications Essential: A1 Normally Scottish Credit and Qualification Framework level 12 (PhD) in a relevant discipline (e.g. imaging, kinetic analysis) plus track record of emerging independence within a research/professional environment, or alternatively possess professional qualifications and experience equivalent to PhD level plus the requisite experience. A2 Undergraduate degree in a relevant discipline (e.g., Physics, Mathematics, Imaging). Desirable: B1 Advanced mathematical and statistical knowledge as well as physiological and pharmacological principles. B2 Knowledge of PET acquisition and reconstruction physics different kinetic models (e.g., one-, two-, and three-tissue compartment models, graphical analysis methods like Patlak and Logan plots, reference tissue models) and the assumptions behind them. B3 Familiarity with deep learning and machine learning applications in imaging. Skills Essential: C1 Strong programming skills including proficiency in languages commonly used for scientific computing and data analysis like Python, MATLAB, or R. C2 Expertise with specialised software packages: Hands on experience with industry standard software for kinetic modelling and image analysis is a must (e.g., PMOD, VivoQuant, or other proprietary/open source tools). C3 Data management and archiving skills such as the ability to handle large, complex 4D (3D space and time) datasets from dynamic PET studies and implement robust data management protocols. C4 Analytical problem solving including the ability to troubleshoot issues with data quality, model fitting, and input functions to ensure accurate and reliable results. C5 Interact and communicate effectively with researchers at all levels and clearly present your findings in both written and verbal formats. C6 Excellent organisational skills, including strong time management, administrative, and project management abilities. C7 Work effectively within a multidisciplinary team and perform efficiently under pressure. Desirable: D1 Supervision skills, including providing guidance to junior researchers. Experience Essential: E1 Practical experience in in vivo image acquisition and processing. E2 Proven experience in applying a variety of kinetic modeling techniques including compartmental and graphical analysis methods, parametric, and network analysis to different types of PET data. E3 Experience with input function derivation: e.g. using arterial blood input functions or non invasive alternatives like image derived input functions (IDIFs). E4 Experience in the successful delivery of imaging research projects, from study design to analysis, interpretation and publication. E5 Evidence of authorship of peer reviewed publications. Desirable: F1 Experience with PET reconstruction and quality control techniques. F2 Experience implementing PET DICOM quality control and troubleshooting protocols. F3 Ability to design PET data management and archiving standards. Terms and Conditions Salary will be Grade 7, £41,064 £46,049 per annum. This position is full time and has funding until 01 October 2030. As a valued member of our team, you can expect: A warm welcoming and engaging organisational culture, where your talents are developed and nurtured, and success is celebrated and shared. An excellent employment package with generous terms and conditions including 41 days of leave for full time staff, pension - pension handbook , benefits and discount packages. A flexible approach to working. A commitment to support your health and wellbeing, including a free 6 month UofG Sport membership for all new staff joining the University We believe that we can only reach our full potential through the talents of all. Equality, diversity and inclusion are at the heart of our values. Applications are particularly welcome from across our communities and in particular people from the Black, Asian and Minority Ethnic (BAME) community, and other protected characteristics who are under represented within the University. Read more on how the University promotes and embeds all aspects of equality and diversity within our community We endorse the principles of Athena Swan and hold bronze, silver and gold awards across the University. We are investing in our organisation, and we will invest in you too. Please visit our website for more information. Closing Date: 26 November 2025 at 23:45
Job Purpose This PET Data Analyst and Modeller post focuses on developing and applying analysis pipelines for complex total-body PET imaging data from the MRC-funded Scotland Total-Body PET facility. The role involves performing kinetic modelling, parametric, and network analysis, as well as validating results using ex vivo and in vitro techniques. You will also conduct developmental and translational work using preclinical total-body data acquired across the Scotland facility. A key part of your responsibilities will be to lead research and innovation outcomes by designing protocols, collecting and analysing data, and publishing your findings in peer-reviewed journals. This is a highly collaborative position where you'll interact directly and indirectly with a major multidisciplinary team, including staff and students from the Molecular Imaging Facility at the Cancer Research UK Scotland Institute, the Whole-Body Imaging Facility and the Imaging Centre of Excellence at the University of Glasgow, as well as NHS colleagues at the West of Scotland PET Centre. This includes physicists, technicians, radiochemists, image analysts, research scientists, and clinical researchers. You'll also collaborate with teams at the University of Edinburgh, a partner institution on the Total-Body PET Scotland Facility project. The post-holder will be based at the University of Glasgow. Main Duties and Responsibilities Take a leading role in the development and validation of new image analysis pipelines for complex total-body PET datasets, including kinetic modelling, parametric, and network analysis. Support the planning, design, and management of new total-body PET studies while also optimising existing pipelines for acquisition, reconstruction, processing, and analysis. Establish and maintain your research profile and reputation and that of the University of Glasgow/School/Research Group/area, including establishing and sustaining a track record of independent and joint publications of international quality, enhancing the research impact in terms of economic/societal benefit, and gathering indicators of esteem. Document research output including analysis and interpretation of all data, maintaining records and databases, drafting technical/progress reports and papers as appropriate. Presentation of work at international and national conferences, at internal and external seminars, colloquia and workshops to develop and enhance our research and/or impact profile. Continuously update knowledge and skills in the field of PET acquisition, reconstruction, processing, and analysis. Securely manage and archive research data, maintain accurate Standard Operating Procedures (SOPs), and ensure all Health & Safety and regulatory protocols are followed. Take a leading role in team/group meetings/seminars/workshops and School research group/area activities to enhance the wider knowledge, outputs and culture of the School/College. Take the lead in the organisation, supervision, mentoring and training of undergraduate and/or postgraduate students and less experienced members of the project team on PET imaging, kinetic modelling, and other image processing techniques to ensure their effective development. Contribute as appropriate to teaching activities (e.g. demonstrating, etc) and associated administration, as may be assigned through the School in consultation with your line manager. Take a leading role in developing and maintaining collaborations with colleagues across the research group/area/School/College/University and wider community (e.g. academic and industrial partners). Engage in personal, professional and career development, to enhance both specialist and transferable skills in accordance with desired career trajectory. Undertake any other reasonable duties as required by your line manager and the Head of School. Contribute to the enhancement of the University's international profile in line with University strategy. Knowledge, Qualifications, Skills, and Experience Knowledge/Qualifications Essential: A1 Normally Scottish Credit and Qualification Framework level 12 (PhD) in a relevant discipline (e.g. imaging, kinetic analysis) plus track record of emerging independence within a research/professional environment, or alternatively possess professional qualifications and experience equivalent to PhD level plus the requisite experience. A2 Undergraduate degree in a relevant discipline (e.g., Physics, Mathematics, Imaging). Desirable: B1 Advanced mathematical and statistical knowledge as well as physiological and pharmacological principles. B2 Knowledge of PET acquisition and reconstruction physics different kinetic models (e.g., one-, two-, and three-tissue compartment models, graphical analysis methods like Patlak and Logan plots, reference tissue models) and the assumptions behind them. B3 Familiarity with deep learning and machine learning applications in imaging. Skills Essential: C1 Strong programming skills including proficiency in languages commonly used for scientific computing and data analysis like Python, MATLAB, or R. C2 Expertise with specialised software packages: Hands on experience with industry standard software for kinetic modelling and image analysis is a must (e.g., PMOD, VivoQuant, or other proprietary/open source tools). C3 Data management and archiving skills such as the ability to handle large, complex 4D (3D space and time) datasets from dynamic PET studies and implement robust data management protocols. C4 Analytical problem solving including the ability to troubleshoot issues with data quality, model fitting, and input functions to ensure accurate and reliable results. C5 Interact and communicate effectively with researchers at all levels and clearly present your findings in both written and verbal formats. C6 Excellent organisational skills, including strong time management, administrative, and project management abilities. C7 Work effectively within a multidisciplinary team and perform efficiently under pressure. Desirable: D1 Supervision skills, including providing guidance to junior researchers. Experience Essential: E1 Practical experience in in vivo image acquisition and processing. E2 Proven experience in applying a variety of kinetic modeling techniques including compartmental and graphical analysis methods, parametric, and network analysis to different types of PET data. E3 Experience with input function derivation: e.g. using arterial blood input functions or non invasive alternatives like image derived input functions (IDIFs). E4 Experience in the successful delivery of imaging research projects, from study design to analysis, interpretation and publication. E5 Evidence of authorship of peer reviewed publications. Desirable: F1 Experience with PET reconstruction and quality control techniques. F2 Experience implementing PET DICOM quality control and troubleshooting protocols. F3 Ability to design PET data management and archiving standards. Terms and Conditions Salary will be Grade 7, £41,064 £46,049 per annum. This position is full time and has funding until 01 October 2030. As a valued member of our team, you can expect: A warm welcoming and engaging organisational culture, where your talents are developed and nurtured, and success is celebrated and shared. An excellent employment package with generous terms and conditions including 41 days of leave for full time staff, pension - pension handbook , benefits and discount packages. A flexible approach to working. A commitment to support your health and wellbeing, including a free 6 month UofG Sport membership for all new staff joining the University We believe that we can only reach our full potential through the talents of all. Equality, diversity and inclusion are at the heart of our values. Applications are particularly welcome from across our communities and in particular people from the Black, Asian and Minority Ethnic (BAME) community, and other protected characteristics who are under represented within the University. Read more on how the University promotes and embeds all aspects of equality and diversity within our community We endorse the principles of Athena Swan and hold bronze, silver and gold awards across the University. We are investing in our organisation, and we will invest in you too. Please visit our website for more information. Closing Date: 26 November 2025 at 23:45
