Research Associate

The University of Bristol is seeking a Senior Research Associate to join an ambitious, industrially funded programme focused on the development of advanced laser-based technologies for lithium isotope enrichment. Based within the Interface Analysis Centre, School of Physics, the role offers an exciting opportunity to contribute to a strategically important research programme that brings together laser physics, spectroscopy, vacuum engineering and process development.

Working within a multidisciplinary team led by Professor Tom Scott, Dr Jacek Wasik and Dr Dave Megson-Smith, you will provide specialist expertise in laser physics and optical systems while helping to establish a new experimental capability. The position offers a unique opportunity to work at the interface between academic research and industrial innovation, contributing to the development of novel technologies with the potential for significant scientific and commercial impact.

What will you be doing?

You will lead the development, commissioning and optimisation of advanced laser and optical systems that underpin the isotope enrichment process. This will include designing and integrating laser sources, spectroscopy tools and optical diagnostics, while ensuring the performance, stability and precision required for experimental success.

A major focus of the role will be planning and conducting spectroscopy and process-development experiments to investigate isotope-selective interactions and evaluate process performance. You will analyse data, interpret results and apply scientific insight to solve complex technical challenges, helping to guide future research activities.

Working closely with engineers, physicists and technical specialists, you will integrate laser systems with vacuum equipment, diagnostics, control systems and wider facility infrastructure. You will also contribute to project planning, equipment procurement, commissioning and technical reporting, taking responsibility for delivering key milestones and maintaining high standards of safety, quality and reproducibility.

As part of an industrially funded programme, you will work closely with private-sector partners and suppliers, contributing to technical reviews and ensuring research outputs are delivered to professional and commercial standards. Success in the role requires the ability to operate effectively within a collaborative environment while balancing scientific excellence, project delivery, confidentiality and stakeholder expectations.

You have a PhD, or equivalent research experience, in physics, optical engineering or a related discipline, together with significant hands-on experience in laser physics, optics and spectroscopy. You enjoy solving challenging experimental problems and have experience designing, commissioning and troubleshooting complex laser systems.

You will be highly organised, collaborative and capable of working independently while delivering results in a fast-paced research environment. Strong communication skills and the ability to build productive relationships with industrial partners are essential, as is a commitment to laboratory safety, research quality and technical excellence. This role would suit someone excited by the opportunity to help develop a unique UK capability in laser-enabled isotope science.