Vacancies

Please see the lists below for the current vacancies. It is possible that more up-to-date information is available from posts@materials.ox.ac.uk or the secretary to the Director of Graduate Studies, graduate.studies@materials.ox.ac.uk.

Oxford University is an Equal Opportunities Employer. For more information about pay and conditions see the Oxford University staff page.

 

Research Studentships

StudentshipPlease see the postgraduate section of the website for a full list of projects currently available.

Projects listed below carry their own funding (subject to contract with the sponsor), so finance in the form of a stipend and payment of fees is available to the successful candidate. However, eligibility for funding is in some cases restricted by the applicant's country of legal residence: below and in the detailed description of funded projects we use the term 'citizen' in respect of this country.

5 funded projects available at present.

***4 studentships in nuclear materials
( C.R.M. Grovenor / S. Lozano-Perez / P. Bagot / P. Edmondson)

***Irradiation Effects on Flow Localisation in Zirconium Alloys
( A J Wilkinson, T J Marrow, S G Roberts, M Preuss* (*University of Manchester))

***Micro-mechanical properties of advanced fission materials
( C.R.M. Grovenor /S.G. Roberts)

*Stress concentration behaviour in radiolytic-oxidised graphite
( Prof T.J. Marrow and Prof D. Nowell (Engineering))

Materials for fission and fusion power
( S G Roberts / A J Wilkinson / P Bagot / P S Grant)

New projects are added from time-to-time, so please review the list regularly.

Please see the postgraduate section of the website for a full list of projects currently available.

Post-doctoral Research Vacancies

Research Job

Postdoctoral Research Assistant in First-Principles Investigation of Multiferroics
Grade 7: Salary: £29,099 p.a. / Vacancy ID: 101778

We wish to appoint a postdoctoral research assistant for up to three years from April 2012 to work on first-principles computational studies of multiferroics. The aim of this EPSRC-funded project is to investigate a series of new concepts in the rational design of multiferroics and magnetoelectrics, using atomic-scale first-principles computational modelling. It contributes towards the understanding of the atomistic mechanisms underlying multiferroicity and magnetoelectricity, which is being led by Prof Paolo Radaelli's group in the Clarendon Laboratory.

Candidates will have a solid background in density-functional theory and previous experience in first principles calculations on multiferroics. The project involves the extraction of effective Hamiltonian parameters to be used in finite-temperature simulations of multiferroic behaviour, the calculation of infrared and Raman spectra for direct comparison with neutron and X-ray scattering experiments performed by the Radaelli Group and at the ISIS and Diamond facilities. It will also involve the development of new first-principles computational methods for multiferroics.

The successful candidate will be working in the Materials Modelling Laboratory (MML) under the supervision of Dr Feliciano Giustino, in close collaboration with the experimental group of Prof Paolo Radaelli, and that of Dr Jonathan Yates in the MML. Candidates should have (by the start date) a doctorate in Physics, Chemistry, or Materials Science with a strong emphasis on first-principles electronic-structure methods. Candidates should also demonstrate proficiency with at least one of the major electronic-structure software packages available, and must be familiar with Fortran/MPI programming, shell scripting, and parallel computing architectures.

The closing date for applications is midday on Thursday 9 February 2012 with interviews currently planned for the week beginning 5 March 2012.

Applications for this post are to be made online (vacancy reference 101778). To apply for this role and for further details, including the job description and selection criteria, please click on the link below: https://www.recruit.ox.ac.uk/pls/hrisliverecruit/erq_jobspec_version_4.jobspec?p_id=101778.

Postdoctoral researcher in advanced in-situ electron microscopy of nanostructured materials
Grade 7 / Salary in the range: £29,099 to £29,972 p.a. / Vacancy ID: 101820

This two-year postdoctoral research position, which is available from 1 April 2012, involves state-of-the-art in-situ electron microscopy characterisation of novel zero, one, and two dimensional nanomaterials, such as nanoparticles, nanotubes and graphene. The researcher will characterise in-house produced nanomaterials using state-of-the-art electron microscopy techniques including high-resolution transmission electron microscopy, analytical S/TEM, electron energy loss spectroscopy, X-ray energy dispersive spectroscopy, and high angle annular dark field imaging. The research group’s findings will contribute to the better understanding of the controlled manufacturing of nanomaterials with desired properties. This post, funded by the European Research Council (ERC), forms an important part of Professor Grobert’s ERC Starting Grant and may be extended up to a total of 3 years.

Applicants should have, by the start date, a doctorate in physics or materials science, preferably in the area of electron microscopy. You should have proven skills and previous experience in at least two, and preferably more, of the following: atomic-resolution electron microscopy, in-situ properties testing of nanomaterials in conjunction with analytical microscopy, electron energy loss spectroscopy, high-angle annular dark field imaging. Complementary techniques such as experience with in-situ STM-TEM, AFM/TEM, modelling etc. holders are desirable.

You will be self-motivated with the ability to work both independently and as part of a team, with excellent written and interpersonal communication skills as well as having experience in providing student supervision. You will be expected to travel within Europe for short periods to work with research partners in the EU project. Experience of collaboration with industry is desirable.

The closing date for applications is midday on Monday 13 February 2012 with interviews currently planned for the week beginning 12 March 2012.

Applications for this post are to be made online (vacancy reference 101820). To apply for this role and for further details, including the job description and selection criteria, please click on the link below: https://www.recruit.ox.ac.uk/pls/hrisliverecruit/erq_jobspec_version_4.jobspec?p_id=101820.

Electron Microscope Facility Technical Manager
Grade 8: Salary: £36,862 to £44,016 p.a. / Vacancy ID: 101946

The Department of Materials seeks a specialist facility technical manager of the highest calibre with the ability to provide strategic leadership for a large, world-class electron microscope facility.

The post holder will provide leadership for the technical support of the suite of electron microscopes as well as co-ordinating the design and development of modifications to EM and ancillary equipment to meet research aims within the department.

Candidates should have significant experience as a service or development engineer with electron microscopes or with other comparable sophisticated high-performance scientific instruments, and should demonstrate a high level of expertise and technical skill in supporting a similar facility elsewhere. Your application should, therefore, demonstrate your substantial expertise in related technical areas, which may be confirmed either by a degree or an equivalent high level technical qualification as well as high level management and leadership skills.

This permanent post is vacant due to the retirement of a long-standing member of staff. The closing date for applications is midday on Friday 24 February 2012 with interviews currently planned for the week beginning 19 March 2012.

Applications for this post are to be made online (vacancy reference 101946). To apply for this role and for further details, including the job description and selection criteria, please click on the link below: https://www.recruit.ox.ac.uk/pls/hrisliverecruit/erq_jobspec_version_4.jobspec?p_id=101946.

Postdoctoral Researcher in Flash Sintering of UHTC and Armour Ceramics
Grade 7: Salary in the range: £29,099 to £32,751 p.a. / Vacancy ID: 102086

Applications are invited for a postdoctoral research assistant position in the area of processing of ceramics. The post, which is available immediately and for up to four months’ duration, will be based in the Department of Materials at Oxford University and supervised by Professors Richard Todd and Peter Wilshaw. The researcher will be concerned mainly with the processing and densification of ceramic specimens and microstructural characterisation.

This project is funded by the MoD and will investigate the possibility of flash sintering various ceramics of interest in defence. The intention is to investigate the viability of this new process as an alternative to densification methods involving the application of pressure. The approach to be used in this short project is to begin by reproducing literature results on ZrO2 based ceramics and then to extend this work to SiC, ZrB2 and other ceramics on which the method has not yet been demonstrated. The mechanisms involved will be investigated by logging temperature and current during sintering. The microstructure, homogeneity and properties of the materials produced will be assessed using standard techniques.

Applicants should have a doctorate in materials science, preferably in the area of ceramic processing. Proven skills in some or all of the following are a requirement of the post: powder processing, sintering/hot pressing/SPS/FAST, microstructural characterisation. The ability to produce original work at a high scientific level and excellent communication skills are expected.

A starting date close to 1 March 2012 is anticipated. The closing date for applications is midday on Thursday 23 February 2012 with interviews currently planned for 2 March 2012.

Applications for this post are to be made online (vacancy reference 102086). To apply for this role and for further details, including the job description and selection criteria, please click on the link below: https://www.recruit.ox.ac.uk/pls/hrisliverecruit/erq_jobspec_version_4.jobspec?p_id=102086.

See also http://www.ox.ac.uk/jobs

Academic Staff Positions

Academic Job

No positions currently advertised.

See also http://www.ox.ac.uk/jobs

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

Support Staff Jobs

Support Job

See also http://www.ox.ac.uk/jobs

Electron Microscope Facility Technical Manager
Grade 8: Salary: £36,862 to £44,016 p.a. / Vacancy ID: 101946

The Department of Materials seeks a specialist facility technical manager of the highest calibre with the ability to provide strategic leadership for a large, world-class electron microscope facility.

The post holder will provide leadership for the technical support of the suite of electron microscopes as well as co-ordinating the design and development of modifications to EM and ancillary equipment to meet research aims within the department.

Candidates should have significant experience as a service or development engineer with electron microscopes or with other comparable sophisticated high-performance scientific instruments, and should demonstrate a high level of expertise and technical skill in supporting a similar facility elsewhere. Your application should, therefore, demonstrate your substantial expertise in related technical areas, which may be confirmed either by a degree or an equivalent high level technical qualification as well as high level management and leadership skills.

This permanent post is vacant due to the retirement of a long-standing member of staff. The closing date for applications is midday on Friday 24 February 2012 with interviews currently planned for the week beginning 19 March 2012.

Applications for this post are to be made online (vacancy reference 101946). To apply for this role and for further details, including the job description and selection criteria, please click on the link below: https://www.recruit.ox.ac.uk/pls/hrisliverecruit/erq_jobspec_version_4.jobspec?p_id=101946.

Part-time Chemicals and Materials Laboratory Support Technician – Maternity Cover
Grade 5 / Salary: £22,971 to £27,428 p.a. pro rata / Vacancy ID: 102032

Do you have a background in chemistry laboratories and experience in Health and Safety, and want to work in a lively, world-class University department? We need a suitably qualified person able to work for up to 50% full-time, covering the maternity leave for one of our technicians who supports the key area of chemical safety in the Department of Materials. The post is shared with another part-time technician, providing general support and advice to research groups, and also to work in our Undergraduate Teaching Laboratories. Your responsibilities will cover every aspect of the safe holding and disposal of chemicals and you will support all students and staff, advising them on the use of chemicals, carrying out regular checks of fume cupboards and emergency equipment, as well as being a member of the departmental Safety Committee. The Department operates over two sites: in central Oxford (where this post is mostly based), and at Begbroke Science Park. The post is expected to be for up to twelve months from 1 March 2012.

You will have an HNC, degree or equivalent qualification in Chemistry or a related discipline, have experience in handling and disposing of potentially hazardous chemicals, be expert in COSHH and CSE requirements, be able to keep accurate records, enjoy working with students and have extensive laboratory experience.

You will work with the Teaching Laboratory Technician during term time to support the practical classes provided for undergraduate students. Therefore any experience in teaching, particularly practical science or technology, would be an advantage.

The closing date for applications is midday on Friday 17 February 2012 with interviews currently planned for the week beginning 27 February 2012.

Applications for this post are to be made online (vacancy reference 102032). To apply for this role and for further details, including the job description and selection criteria, please click on the link below: https://www.recruit.ox.ac.uk/pls/hrisliverecruit/erq_jobspec_version_4.jobspec?p_id=102032.

Maternity Cover for Editorial Assistant and Personal Secretary (Part-time)
Grade 4: Salary £19,972 to £23,121 p.a. (pro rata) / Vacancy ID: 102192

We have an immediate vacancy for an enthusiastic Editorial Assistant/Personal Secretary in this dynamic, research-intensive, academic Department. You will be supporting Professor Richard Todd in his role as Senior Editor (Editor-in-Chief) of the Journal of the European Ceramic Society (JECS) and in his teaching and research role within the Department. This is a part-time post (20% FTE) with hours to be negotiated.

You will have administrative experience, good written and verbal communication skills, and a high level of numeracy. You will be a highly competent IT user with proven experience in a variety of applications, preferably with experience of web page production and maintenance. With proven ability in and experience of dealing with a wide range of business rapidly and efficiently, and in prioritising multiple jobs to meet deadlines, you will have excellent organisational skills combined with an eye for detail and a high level of personal initiative and problem solving ability. Good interpersonal skills demonstrating tact and discretion, and the ability to cooperate with staff and collaborators at all levels are essential. Experience of publishing and a scientific background are desirable. This post is available from 19 April 2012 until 20 June 2013.

The closing date for applications is midday on Monday, 5 March 2012 with interviews currently planned for 16 March 2012.

Applications for this post are to be made online (vacancy reference 102192). To apply for this role and for further details, including the job description and selection criteria, please click on the link below: https://www.recruit.ox.ac.uk/pls/hrisliverecruit/erq_jobspec_version_4.jobspec?p_id=102192.