University of Bath
Research Assistant in Scanning Tunnelling Microscopy Luminescence
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Research Assistant in Scanning Tunnelling Microscopy Luminescence
Research Assistant in Scanning Tunnelling Microscopy Luminescence
About The Role
We seek to recruit a highly motivated researcher with a strong background in STM-induced single molecule manipulation or a closely related field for a 6-month Research Assistant position funded by the EPSRC award Shining light on single molecule dynamics: photon by photon (grant reference EP/X031934/1, PI: Dr Kristina Rusimova).
Your contributions will centre around developing and implementing a state-of-the-art scanning tunnelling microscope (STM) luminescence system capable of single-photon counting and photon correlation measurements. Working with a room-temperature ultrahigh vacuum STM, you will design and optimise the optical detection setup to investigate the temporal behaviour of molecular emitters and hot-electron-driven processes at the single-molecule level.
This role features a key focus on automated experimental workflows and instrument control using Python. You will integrate your work with our existing laboratory automation framework, combining hardware control, data acquisition, and analysis pipelines to facilitate reliable and high-throughput measurements.
Your responsibilities also extend to:
- Analysing, publishing, and presenting research findings through high-quality journal publications and international conference presentations
- Collaborating with project partners and contributing to a vibrant, interdisciplinary research environment
- Possibly supervising postgraduate researchers
- Developing expertise in single-molecule spectroscopy, scientific instrumentation, and laboratory automation at the interface of nanoscience, photonics, and quantum technologies
As a member of the Research Staff at the University of Bath, you will be encouraged to engage in a minimum of 10 days professional development (pro rata) per year annually.
Location & Duration
This is a full-time role (36.5 hours per week) with an expected start date of September 2026 until March 2027.
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About You
Eligibility and ideal experiences for the role:
- A Master's degree in Physics or a closely related discipline
- Hands-on experience in:
- Experimental scanning probe microscopy
- Room-temperature single-molecule manipulation and spectroscopy
- Strong laboratory skills and comprehensive understanding of relevant physical principles
- Scientific programming proficiency in Python, covering:
- Laboratory automation
- Instrument control
- Data acquisition
- Development of robust and reproducible data analysis workflows
- Experience with version control (e.g., Git) and scientific software development is beneficial
- A track record or demonstrated capacity for independent experimental research
- Ability to contribute to the design, implementation, and optimisation of advanced instrumentation for single-molecule spectroscopy
- Familiarity with (though not essential):
- Ultrahigh vacuum systems
- Scanning tunnelling microscopy
- STM-induced luminescence
- Single-photon detection
Additionally required:
- Excellent communication and organisational skills
- Ability to function both autonomously and within a collaborative research team
- An enthusiasm for developing new experimental techniques
Contact
For an informal discussion about the role, please contact Dr Kristina Rusimova at krr22@bath.ac.uk.
University Values
The University of Bath is proud to foster an environment that celebrates difference and actively promotes gender equity and intersectionality. Commitments include:
- Holding an Athena SWAN Silver Award
- Celebrating and supporting staff from over 60 nations
- An unwavering commitment to diversity of experience, perspectives, and backgrounds
Equally committed initiatives:
- Armed Forces Covenant adherence
- Accredited Disability Confident Leader with status as an autism-friendly university
- Reinforcement of Safer Recruitment for a safe, secure university environment
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What We Can Offer
Benefits Package
The University of Bath offers a comprehensive benefits package, including but not limited to:
- Generous annual leave allowance (including 5 discretionary days for work-life balance)
- Generous employer contributory pension schemes
- Access to:
- Cycle to work (and electric vehicle salary sacrifice) schemes
- Discounted membership to Team Bath gym
- Staff discounts such as:
- Postgraduate tuition and language courses
- A variety of professional development opportunities (including apprenticeships, LinkedIn Learning)
- Local perks, like free entry to the Holburne Museum in Bath
- Family-friendly work environment
- Excellent reward package recognizing the talent of our global workforce
- Relocation allowance
- Support for visa reimbursement and interest-free loans to help with immigration expenses
Additionally, we provide employee assistance services, including Health Assured, and access to the Wisdom app.
Be Well at Bath
The University of Bath is committed to health-supporting working environments, empowering staff to thrive. Resources available include:
- Staff support groups and networks
- A network of Staff Wellbeing Champions
- Suite of tools, resources, and frameworks to enhance well-being and job performance
Applying for This Position
Additional legal considerations within the recruitment process:
- Right to Work in the UK: Candidate assessment occurs post-offer stage. Visa sponsorship will not be guaranteed at the interview stage.
- Anonymous Shortlisting: The University endeavours to mitigate unconscious bias within recruitment processes by removing personal details, including the name, during initial shortlisting.
More details can be found within relevant webpages. To learn more about working at Bath, visit our [University of Bath careers page](insert URL if applicable) or follow us on X (Twitter) and LinkedIn for insights.
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