Gemini Experimental Scientist Industrial Placement

UK Research and Innovation

Sep 17, 2023

Applications are closed

Internship
Full-time
Placement Program
Research & Development
Science
£21.6K
Oxford

Requirements

Essential:
Currently be enrolled on an undergraduate degree course
Be required or have requested to take a placement year
Have the right to live and work in the UK for the duration of the placement
First two years of degree course in physics, or a closely related subject, with grades corresponding to a 2:1 or higher.
A-level Maths or equivalent
A-level Physics or equivalent
Desirable:
A-level Computing or Further Maths
Knowledge, skills and experience:
Essential:
Good understanding of fundamental physics concepts (electromagnetism, lasers, optics)
Undergraduate experimental laboratory course (or similar practical experience)
Desirable:
Computer programming experience (e.g. MATLAB, Python)
Experience in the design and building of technical equipment, e.g. robotics, electronics, or anything mechanical
Experience working in a research laboratory environment
Personal skills, qualities and attributes:
Essential:
Effective communication skills
Able to work effectively both in a team and independently
Good problem-solving skills
Responsible approach to Health and Safety
Special requirements:
Note: Working in a high-power laser laboratory is not physically demanding, but does have certain practical requirements: adequate vision in both eyes (with the aid of prescription glasses if required); being able to hear other team members so you are aware of hazards, standing for extended periods, and able to wearing PPE (laser goggles, gloves, mask etc). We encourage you to please speak to us about any adjustments you may require.

Responsibilities

The successful applicant will join the Gemini experimental delivery team, a small group of experienced laser-plasma scientists. Previous experience working with lasers and optics is desirable, but not essential. Initially, you will work closely with experienced team members to learn key skills and techniques before being expected to work more independently and direct your own work. However, undergraduate experience (or equivalent) in a laboratory setting is assumed, and a basic understanding of the theory that underpins our work, i.e. lasers, optics and electromagnetic theory, is essential. The ideal applicant would be able to demonstrate an interest or knowledge of these topics beyond an undergraduate level, knowledge of plasma physics would be beneficial.
Our team works primarily to facilitate experiments using the Gemini laser, as well as working on facility development projects to enhance the quality of the research conducted here. As such, the roles taken on by placement students are varied, and exact duties can be tailored to suit your particular interests and capabilities.
Facility delivery consists of support tasks such as experimental planning, procurement, and preparing diagnostics, as well as working on the experiments themselves, i.e. helping with the set-up, running diagnostics, and analysing data. This constitutes a genuine contribution to new research; our previous students have been credited as co-authors on journal articles and many have gone on to PhD studies with user groups that they worked with while at Gemini.
Facility development projects generally involve design, construction and testing of hardware and/or software to enhance the quality of the research carried out at the CLF. You would be fully encouraged to contribute your own ideas for projects corresponding to your own skills and interests. Any experience in the design or building of technical equipment would be beneficial, but not critical, as we do enjoy a high level of engineering and technical support. The ability to keep accurate records, and clearly and concisely communicate ideas and results to the group is essential.
Students are generally given a large amount of autonomy, so drive and enthusiasm is essential. Candidates should be self-motivated, with good time management and task prioritisation skills. The ability to work effectively in a team is also required because all projects require contributions from multiple individuals with different areas of expertise.
A high-power laser laboratory is a hazardous environment with a real risk of serious, life changing injury, so a responsible approach to health and safety is imperative. Experience working in such environments is desirable, but not essential, as full safety training will be given.

UK Research and Innovation

Government

Industry

1001-5000

Employees

2018

Founded Year

Mission & Purpose

UKRI convenes, catalyses and invests in close collaboration with others to build a thriving, inclusive research and innovation system that connects discovery to prosperity and public good. Our work is tackling 21st century challenges from climate and advancing technologies, to health, society, arts and culture. We bring together nine organisations with great depth and breadth of expertise, allowing us to connect research communities, institutions, businesses and wider society, in the UK and around the world. This combination enables us to work across the whole research and innovation system, informed by our networks and expertise. Our vision is for an outstanding research and innovation system in the UK that gives everyone the opportunity to contribute and to benefit, enriching lives locally, nationally and internationally.