Nmr Specialist

This post requires expertise in working with small molecules in solution, but it is part of a project to build a system capable of making measurements of time-domain quantities relevant to MRI such as relaxivities and diffusion coefficients as well as measurements of fat and iron content of solutions via multiple methods. It’s a little different from standard analytical spectroscopy, but if you’re up for a unique challenge and want to do work that makes a big impact, then this is for you

Primary responsibilities include:

- Assisting with the design and build of a new, variable field NMR facility
- Acquiring and analysing MR data to support materials characterisation in multiple MR contrasts (quantitative T1, T2, diffusion, fat fraction, and iron content are current priorities, but this will change and expand with time)
- Designing and performing sets of experiments characterising materials across a range of main field strengths
- Working with collaborators and partners nationally and internationally, and with MR physicists in the NPL team and at our partner sites
- Investigating the uncertainties and biases associated with NMR acquisitions and analysis, and performing detailed numerical calculations
- Writing and publishing scientific research papers and giving presentations internally and externally
- Formulating and contributing to research proposals
- Contributing to the development and delivery of new measurement services
- Building and extending an internal and external network of collaborators and partners, working closely with scientists who are generating high-quality experimental data
- Assisting in PhD student supervision

The position would suit recent PhD graduate or junior postdoc with a background in NMR spectroscopy, or someone with equivalent experience elsewhere. The role involves a broad range of NMR skills, and a strong background in NMR physics is essential, as are strong communication skills and an ability to work adaptively to changing requirements as the project matures.

Skills required:

- PhD or equivalent experience within NMR
- A solid grasp of the physics of NMR spectroscopy and NMR spectrometer hardware
- A solid mathematical and computational background, including a working knowledge of at least one scientifically-appropriate language such as Python, R, C/C++, etc
- Strong written and verbal communication skills
- A proven ability to publish research results

The following may be advantageous but not essential:

- Experience in pulse programming
- Experience in NMR hardware and facility design
- Experience in quantitative MR parameter estimation (e.g. measurement of T1/T2/ADC) from NMR data, including time-domain data
- Experience across a variety of magnet frequencies / field strengths
- Experience with MRI or working with MRI specialists

The National Physical Laboratory (NPL) is a world-leading centre of excellence that provides cutting-edge measurement science, engineering and technology to underpin prosperity and quality of life in the UK.

At NPL, we believe our success is a result of the diversity and talent of our people. We strive to nurture and respect individuals to ensure everyone feels valued by treating everyone on the basis of their own individual merits and abilities regardless of their own or perceived identity, as part of our commitment to diversity & inclusion, we hold memberships and accreditations to ensure we’re creating an environment where all our colleagues feel supported and welcome, please see our Diversity & Inclusion page.

We are committed to the health and well-being of our employees. Flexible working and social activities are embedded in our culture to create a positive work-life balance, along with a broad range of benefits. Our values are at the heart of what we do, and they shape the way we interact, develop our people and celebrate success.

To ensure everyone has an equal chance, we’re always willing to make reasonable adjustments to the recruitment process. If you would like to discuss, please contact us.