Research Fellow in Laser-Plasma Physics

This post is available until 31 October 2019, to undertake experimental research, in world-leading facilities, in the field of high intensity laser-matter interactions. Particular emphasis is given to the generation of neutral electron-positron beams and the study of their dynamics in conditions of relevance to astrophysics.

MAJOR DUTIES:

• Develop and plan an area of personal research and expertise, and/or undertake research under supervision within a specific research project or as a member of a research team.
• Design, develop and refine experimental apparatus, field research or experiments in order to obtain reliable data.
• Carry out analyses, critical evaluations, and interpretations using methodologies and other techniques appropriate to area of research.
• Design and perform experimental campaigns using the in-house laser system TARANIS and national and international laser facilities, such as the Central Laser Facility at the Rutherford Appleton Laboratory, the HERCULES laser at Michigan University, and the Jeti laser at the Helmoltz Institute in Jena, Germany.
• Present regular progress reports on research to members of the research group or to external audiences to disseminate and publicise research findings.
• Prepare, often in consultation with supervisor, material for publication in national and international journals and presentations at international conferences.
• Assist grant holder in the preparation of funding proposals and applications to external bodies.
• Carry out routine administrative tasks associated with the research project/s to ensure that project/s are completed on time and within budget. These might include organisation of project meetings and documentation, financial control, risk assessment of research activities.
• Carry out occasional undergraduate supervision, demonstrating or lecturing duties within the post holder’s area of expertise and under the direct guidance of a member of academic staff. Read academic papers, journals and textbooks to keep abreast of developments in own specialism and related disciplines.

Planning and Organising:

• Plan for specific aspects of research programmes. Timescales range from 1-6 months in advance and contribute to research group planning.
• Plan for the use of research resources, laboratories and workshops where appropriate.
• Plan own day-to day activity within framework of the agreed research programme.
• Plan up to a year in advance to meet deadlines for journal publications and to prepare presentations and papers for conferences.
• Coordinate and liaise with other members of the research group over work progress.

Resource Management Responsibilities:

• Ensure research resources are used in an effective and efficient manner. Provide guidance as required to support staff and any students who may be assisting with research.

Internal and External Relationships:

• Liaise on a regular basis with colleagues and students.
• Build internal contacts and participate in internal networks for the exchange of information and to form relationships for future collaboration.
• Join external networks to share information and ideas.
• Contribute to the School’s outreach programme by establishing links with local community groups, industries etc.

ESSENTIAL CRITERIA:

• Have or about to obtain PhD in Plasma Physics or closely related discipline.
• At least 3 years relevant research experience including demonstrable practical experience with high-power laser systems and laser-plasma interactions (which can include PhD study).
• Demonstrable research interests in the field of high power laser-matter interaction and laser-driven particle acceleration.
• Ability to contribute to broader management and administrative processes.
• Sufficient breadth and depth of specialist knowledge in the discipline and of research methods and techniques to work within established research programmes.
• Ability to supervise post-graduate and final year undergraduate students.
• Ability to communicate complex information clearly.
• Ability to build contacts and participate in internal and external networks.
• Ability to communicate effectively, both verbally and in writing.
• Demonstrable logical and intellectual ability.
• Ability to assess and organise resources. Ability to work in a team.
• Willingness to travel.
• Evidence of ability to develop record of high quality publications commensurate with career.

DESIRABLE CRITERIA:

• Experience in numerical and analytical modelling.
• Experience in Particle Tracing and Monte-Carlo simulation codes.
• Experience in laser-driven electron acceleration.
• Remarkable publication track record, commensurate with stage of career.
• Experience in supervision of postgraduate and final year undergraduate students.
• Contribute to the School’s outreach programme by interacting with industry, community groups, and general public.