Transport of energy at the nanoscale in the form of excitons is a fundamental process in many natural processes such as photosynthesis and plays a key role in the operation of optoelectronic devices based on organic semiconductors such as solar cells and light-emitting diodes. The University of St Andrews has exceptional research facilities to study the properties of these organic semiconductors, ranging from infrastructure for device fabrication and characterisation to equipment for fundamental studies of light-emitting processes. A postdoctoral fellow position under joint supervision of Prof Samuel and Dr. Carlos Penedo is available immediately in the field of single-molecule spectroscopy of conjugated polymers. The successful candidate will develop and apply optical techniques to investigate exciton diffusion at single-molecule level and understand how the transport of energy takes place in disordered nanostructured materials.
 
You should hold a PhD in physics and have demonstrated experience in the development of single-molecule instrumentation both for microscopy and spectroscopy applications. Experience in one or more of the following will be a significant advantage: software engineering for equipment control (LabView, C++ or similar), fluorescence microscopy, optical instrumentation. Initiative and eagerness to work at the interface between disciplines and to explore new fields of research is essential.

The position is for an initial period of one year.

Applications are particularly welcome from women who are under-represented in Research posts at the University.

The University of St Andrews is committed to promoting equality of opportunity for all, which is further demonstrated through its working on the Gender and Race Equality Charters and being awarded the Athena SWAN award for women in science, HR Excellence in Research Award and the LGBT Charter;  http://www.st-andrews.ac.uk/hr/edi/diversityawards/.

Interview Date: 2 June 2015

Please quote ref: ML1642

Closing Date:  18 May 2015

Further Particulars: ML1642AR FPs.doc

School of Physics & Astronomy
Salary:  £31,342 - £37,394 per annum
Start Date:  As soon as possible
Fixed Term:  Initially for one year