Research Support Technician

UNIVERSITY OF BATH

Research Support Technician (Instrumentation & 3D Printing)

Starting from £26,243, rising to £32,236 pro rata, (part-time, fixed-term role)

Ref: CC6491

We are seeking a technician to join the Bath Open Instrumentation Group, where we produce high-precision scientific instruments using 3D printing and open-source electronics tools. The ideal candidate will have experience of CNC machining or 3D printing, including maintenance of machines and production of parts. Duties will include maintenance and operation of a number of 3D printers, producing parts in a conventional mechanical workshop, and maintenance and production of electronic parts.

The OpenFlexure project aims to use readily available 3D printers to produce positioning mechanisms with sub-micron precision, using plastic flexure hinges. This involves the design and testing of printed structures, including customising the toolpath followed by the extruder as it builds up the shape, to improve the mechanical performance of the part. One of our main instruments is a microscope, which we are currently testing out in Tanzania as part of a project to automate the diagnosis of malaria.

There is considerable scope for the successful candidate to be involved in the design of new instruments and the development of improved printing methods.  This might include work on improved positioning mechanisms, or automation of instruments using open-source software and microcontrollers. There will be opportunities to learn skills such as micro controller programming or parametric CAD, depending on your interests.

You will be based within the Centre for Photonics and Photonic Materials in the Department of Physics, which consists of about 30 researchers and academic staff and includes one full time technician.

This is a part-time role (0.5 fte) on a fixed-term basis for up to 2 years. A degree of flexibility is available in the working times, including the possibility to work full-time for a shorter period.

For an informal discussion about the role please email Dr Richard Bowman, however, please ensure that your application is submitted via the University website.

To apply visit our website by clicking the apply button.

Closing date: 13 February 2019.

The University of Bath is an equal opportunities employer and has an excellent international reputation with staff from over 60 different nations. To achieve our global aspirations, we welcome applicants from all backgrounds.