The University of Manchester
Senior Technical Specialist (Actinide Analysis and Spectroscopy)

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Role Overview
This role provides senior technical leadership in actinide analysis and spectroscopy within the Actinides Centre of Excellence (ACE; https://www.awe.co.uk/2026/06/awe-and-the-university-of-manchester-launch-actinides-centre-of-excellence/), a collaboration between the University of Manchester and AWE. ACE is a 5 year research programme across three key theme areas to undertake fundamental research into actinide materials, and has the intention to grow by the inclusion of other national partners and universities.
Key Responsibilities
- Lead the specification, operation, and optimisation of specialist equipment and processes used to support advanced nuclear research.
- Use spectroscopic and radiometric techniques to support the quantification of actinide containing samples in both solution and solid states.
- Collaborate with academic, technical, and external partners to deliver high-quality research support, specialist training, and technical innovation.
- Ensure safe, compliant, and efficient operation of nuclear laboratory facilities.
- Contribute to strengthening research capability, supporting growth of ACE activities, and delivering impactful outcomes for the nuclear sector.
- Lead the technical delivery of the analytical and spectroscopy requirements in actinides R&D.
- Work in conjunction with the ACE team of academics, PDRAs, and PhD students to meet specific aims.
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Specific Aims
- Develop advanced techniques and procedures for actinide analysis and spectroscopy needs in academic and industrial environments.
- Develop and implement actinide sample containment procedures to ensure worker safety, instrument preservation, and high-quality analytical/spectroscopic outputs.
- Provide specialist training and advice for ACE users, particularly when utilizing newly acquired and bespoke-designed instrumentation.
- Drive continuous improvement of technical services within ACE to strengthen research capability and outputs in nuclear science and engineering.
Benefits
- Fantastic market-leading Pension scheme
- Excellent employee health and wellbeing services including an Employee Assistance Programme
- Exceptional starting annual leave entitlement, plus bank holidays
- Additional paid closure over the Christmas period
- Local and national discounts at a range of major retailers
Equal Opportunities
As an equal opportunities employer, we welcome applicants from all sections of the community regardless of age, sex, gender (or gender identity), ethnicity, disability, sexual orientation, and transgender status. All appointments are made on merit.


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Flexible Working
Our University is positive about flexible working – you can find out more here.
Hybrid working arrangements may be considered.
Application Information
- We may not be able to provide individual feedback on your application due to the number of applications.
- We are unable to respond to enquiries, accept CVs, or applications from recruitment agencies.
- Recruitment enquiries from recruitment agencies should be directed to recruitmentservices.people@manchester.ac.uk. Any CV’s submitted by a recruitment agency will be considered a gift.
Contact Information
Enquiries about the vacancy, shortlisting, and interviews:
Name: Marc Schmidt (Senior Technical Specialist)
Email: marc.schmidt@manchester.ac.uk
General enquiries:
Email: recruitmentservices.people@manchester.ac.uk
Technical support:
0161 850 2004 https://jobseekersupport.jobtrain.co.uk/support/home
Closing Date
This vacancy will close for applications at midnight on the closing date.
Further Particulars:
Please see the link below for the Further Particulars document which contains the person specification criteria.
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