Research Assistant / Research Associate in Biomedical Optics

Physics and Astronomy
Location: Canterbury
Salary: £28,762 to £40,931 per annum
Research Assistant (Grade 6): £28,762 - £32,348 per annum / Research Associate (Grade 7): £36,386 – 40,931 per annum
Grade: Grade 6 Research Assistant to Grade 7
Post Type: Full Time
Contract Type: Fixed Term - 36 Months
Release Date: Wednesday 04 January 2023
Closing Date: 23.59 hours GMT on Thursday 02 February 2023 (unless otherwise stated)
Interview Date: To be confirmed
Reference: NATS-159-22-R2

We are looking for an enthusiastic and ambitious researcher to join the Applied Optics Group (AOG) in the School of Physics and Astronomy at the University of Kent. You will work in the field of miniaturised endoscopic optical coherence tomography (OCT) on a project supported by the EPSRC grant, “FoVEnOCT: Compact Forward-Viewing Endoscopic Optical Coherence Tomography”.

The research will focus on exciting new technical solutions for forward-viewing OCT for clinical imaging, using fibre imaging bundles or miniature cameras. It will develop practical imaging systems which can be translated to the clinic, and will involve collaboration with partners in industry and medicine.

The successful candidate will work in the AOG lab suite in the University’s Photonics Centre with access to state of the art equipment, including Vytran glass processing unit. The work will build on the AOG’s highly active research programme and strong track record in optical coherence tomography and biomedical imaging.

As Research Assistant/Associate you will:

assemble and test innovative optical configurations to achieve the goals and milestones described in the research plan
provide practical advice and help to other lab members
design and execute experiments, maintaining an up to date log of all research activity undertaken
contribute to the dissemination of research results through peer-reviewed publications and conference presentations
To be successful in this role you will have/be:

a higher degree course in Physics/Optics/ Engineering or other relevant discipline
PhD in relevant area or research towards PhD completed and draft PhD thesis in an advanced state
experience in undertaking research in an optics lab or equivalent
developed prior research activity in OCT/microscopy or a related field
demonstrable experience of high-level programming of at least one of the following : Labview, C++, Matlab, Python or similar
excellent organisational skills
excellent communication skills, both written and verbal
You will be supported in your career development through mentorship and access to a range of courses via the Kent Researcher Development Programme. The Applied Optics Group has a regular programme of seminars from internal and external speakers and a journal club, as well as events such as industrial visits organised by the Optica Student Chapter. There are also regular opportunities to participate in outreach activities with the local community.

For informal enquiries, please contact Professor Adrian Podoleanu (PI) (a.g.h.podoleanu@kent.ac.uk), and Dr Michael Hughes (Co-I) (m.r.hughes@kent.ac.uk).

The successful candidate will be appointed at the appropriate level (either Research Assistant or Research Associate), where the essential criteria is met within the person specification.

The Applied Optics Group (AOG) has 5 permanent full time academics, 5 PDRAs, 8 PG students and several Erasmus students. We have an international reputation in OCT and sensing based on extensive publication, IP protection and a diverse portfolio of grants. Following an investment of £1.8M, the AOG laboratories occupy 700 m2 in the Photonics Centre, part of a University-wide initiative to strengthen its research in Optics, including optical laboratories, a workshop and a clean air room. The AOG is well equipped with state-of-the-art lasers and optical measurement equipment and well supported by technical services and workshops. The group has acquired extensive expertise in extending OCT technology to a wide range of applications in ophthalmology, otolaryngology, dentistry, dermatology, microscopy and embryology. The AOG has been highly active in translating OCT technology to industry and clinics in and outside UK.

Further information can be found at: http://research.kent.ac.uk/applied-optics

Physics and Astronomy is a friendly, dynamic and innovative department based on the Canterbury Campus of the University of Kent. It has modern teaching and research facilities, a result of sustained investment. We carry out internationally leading research in Astrophysics and Planetary Science, Applied Optics and Physics of Quantum Materials. Our outreach and public engagement activities have been a central part of our operations for many years and are leading across the country, as recognised by an NCCPE Silver Engage Watermark. The curriculum has been recently reviewed and modernised for all our programmes (BSc and MPhys in Physics, Physics with Astrophysics and Astronomy, Space Science and Astrophysics), with the goal of offering an excellent student experience, employability skills and training through research-led teaching.

Physics and Astronomy forms part of a wider Division of Natural Sciences. This is a thriving academic community with a strong tradition of interdisciplinarity. Our portfolio spans Physics & Astronomy, Chemistry & Forensic Science, Sport & Exercise Sciences, Medway School of Pharmacy and the newly founded Kent and Medway Medical School (KMMS). With a broad portfolio of undergraduate and postgraduate programmes offered at the University's campus’, the Division of Natural sciences provides a truly multidisciplinary community.

The University of Kent is a distinctive and attractive place to work. We employ around 6,000 staff, including academic and research staff and a full range of support and administration staff. Our stunning main campus in Canterbury, Kent was founded in 1965 and is set among green and tranquil open space overlooking the spectacular Cathedral. The historic city of Canterbury is close to the beautiful Kent coast and is also just an hour by high-speed train to central London. Our staff enjoy competitive salaries, an occupational pension scheme, generous holiday entitlements (43 days per year) and a great working environment.

Please see the links below to view the full job description and to apply for this post. You will be required to fill in the main details section of the application form as well as upload your CV and a cover letter. Your cover letter should clearly and explicitly address the requirements of the Person Specification and you should provide clear evidence and examples in your application which back-up any assertions you make in relation to each criterion. We recommend a maximum of 4 x A4 sides for this document. If you require further information regarding the application process, please contact the Human Resources team on: natshr@kent.ac.uk quoting ref number: NATS-159-22-R2.


We particularly welcome applications from black, Asian and minority ethnic candidates as they are under-represented at this level in this area
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Please note that we prioritise applications from current University of Kent redeployees. We will let you know if this post is to be filled by a redeployee as, in this instance, your application will unfortunately not be taken forward.

Applications must be made via the University’s online application system; CVs or details sent directly to the department or via email cannot be considered.

The University of Kent values diversity and promotes equality at all levels.