SUPP111230

Recognised as an operational specialist in electron microscopy. Provides a specialist service, guidance, and trains others in carrying out sophisticated techniques related to sample characterisation by electron microscopy. Contributes creative and innovative solutions in electron imaging and related analytical techniques. Interpret and evaluate data or information from outputs based on developed understanding of context of specific area of practice.

What will you be doing?

The Chemical Imaging Facility provides solutions in advanced microscopy by providing a wide range of service to characterise samples generated by research from various departments within, but not exclusive to, the University. The facility hosts a suite of scanning probe, transmission and scanning electron microscopes to provide high-resolution and standard imaging, coupled with analytical equipment.

The EM role-holder will be providing a consultancy service to academic staff, students, and external users to provide specialist solutions related to electron microscopy characterisation services. They will provide advice, guidance and specialist knowledge to academic staff and students on technical procedures and analysis methods for research projects (for instance on specific sample preparation and/or synthesis modification to tailor specific electron imaging solutions, diffraction, spectroscopy, image analysis, statistical analysis). This includes support for the preparation of proposals for future projects, and planning and costing such projects accordingly. They will be required to plan, cost, and deliver projects providing specialist sample processing services, reporting results and assisting with analysis. In addition, the service will support work carried out in pilot studies and provide estimates of the potential cost and time required to complete the full projects.

• Detailed, current specialist knowledge and refined skills in transmission and scanning electron microscopy, image analysis, sample preparation (metal sputtering, staining, embedding, microtoming), CCD camera operation and calibration, and general maintenance of microscopes and equipment; significant experience in spectroscopy techniques such as EDS and EELS; experience in providing training and demonstration to users.


• Excellent IT skills, expert knowledge of relevant specialist software (Image analysis, microscope and camera control, spectroscopy software, data transfer)


• Excellent organisational skills, with the ability to deal with and prioritise a range of ongoing tasks at the same time, and to be able to cope under pressure


• Ability to devise, review and deliver complex and timely solutions


• Ability to work independently, and apply specialist knowledge to provide solutions


• Consistently maintaining a high level of accuracy and precision in all areas of work


• Innovative approach to work