Laser-Plasma Diagnostics Industrial Placement

UK Research and Innovation

Sep 16, 2023

Applications are closed

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

Requirements

Essential:
Currently enrolled on an undergraduate degree course
Are required or have requested to take an industrial placement year
Able to commence employment in summer 2024
Have the right to live and work in the UK for the duration of the placement
Good understanding of basic physics concepts (electromagnetism, lasers, optics)
Undergraduate experimental laboratory course
Practical laboratory skills (I) - this will be tested by a laboratory exercise.
Computer programming experience (e.g. MATLAB, Python, C++)
Effective communication skills
Demonstrate good team working capabilities
Highly motivated and able to work independently
Desirable:
Completed/undergoing undergraduate electromagnetism/optics modules

Responsibilities

The successful applicant will join the Experimental Science Group, working the Applications team to build and develop diagnostics to characterise the bright multi-modal emission from laser-plasma interactions. These diagnostics will vary from imaging detectors to spectrometers of both photons and particles. Previous experience working with optics and cameras 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 their own work. However, some experience in a laboratory setting is assumed, and a basic understanding of the theory that underpins our work, i.e. lasers, optics, radiation mechanisms, and electromagnetic theory, is essential. The ideal applicant would be able to demonstrate an interest or knowledge of these topics beyond an undergraduate level.
Diagnostic development requires a multitude of skills, both practical and theoretical, to deliver. From characterising the diagnostic with a known source, to estimating expected signal levels during an experiment and analysing the resultant data produced. We work closely with partners at TIFR Institutes in India through the EPIC programme, and academic groups across the UK/Europe, to develop complimentary diagnostics for a wide range of laser systems, experiments and applications. Through this role you will have the opportunity to collaborate with academic groups during their experiments on either Vulcan on Gemini, to test diagnostics or perform scientific measurements using a diagnostic. There is a real possibility to make a genuine contribution to research in this role, former students have appeared as authors on journal articles and many have gone on to PhD studies.
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 development 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. Ultimately, however, the complexity of the work we do means that all projects require contribution from multiple individuals with different areas of expertise, so the ability to work in a team and coordinate with others is required.
A high-power laser lab is a hazardous environment so a responsible approach to health and safety is imperative. Thorough safety training will be given as standard before any work is conducted in these areas, and experience working in such environments is desirable, but not essential.

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.