Job Description template
Job title:
Instrument Specialist
Department/School:
Microscopy & Analysis Suite (MAS), Faculty of
Science
Grade:
7
Location:
3 West 2.11-2.16F
Job purpose
To (co-)manage the MAS microscopy, spectroscopy & analysis service (scanning electron
microscopy, field emission scanning electron microscopy, transmission electron microscopy,
raman spectroscopy, scanning probe microscopy, and x-ray analysis), and to give expert
advice and support on issues relating to this service to all users of the facility. To contribute to
user training and maintenance of the equipment within the service, and to carry out
consultancy activities to generate income and promote the University of Bath.
Reports to:
The Technical Manager of MAS
Staff management responsibility
None
Career and Professional Development Activities
To engage in knowledge transfer, continuous professional development, consultancy and
other external engagement related to the running of the MAS services, as appropriate.
From time to time you may be asked to assist in the facilitation of CPD activities. This will
form part of your substantive role and you will not receive additional payment for these
activities.
12/02/2016
Special conditions
Heavy lifting, skin exposure to allergens/irritants, respiratory exposure to irritants/allergens,
lone working
Main duties and responsibilities
1
As part of a team to assist in the day-to-day running of the Microscopy & Analysis
Suite (MAS) in the Faculty of Science. Provide day-to-day expert advice and support
on issues regarding microscopy, spectroscopy and analysis (particularly in regard to
materials) including image and data collection, help with image/data processing and
interpretation, and developing new techniques/methods.
2
In collaboration with other staff in MAS, deliver the microscopy, spectroscopy and
analysis service, including maintenance of the equipment, establishing protocols to
ensure a high standard of image and data quality. Coordinate sample recharging,
monitor an instrument booking system, prioritise and plan resources for updating the
equipment, ensure data archiving is carried out and all other necessary
administrative duties.
3
Assist MAS users with sample preparation for examination by microscopy,
spectroscopy and/or analysis. Train users in the use of sample preparation
instruments (evaporators, sputter coaters, polishing equipment, microtomes etc) and
develop novel preparation techniques to answer their research needs.
4
Carry out training courses for MAS users for all instruments within the microscopy,
spectroscopy and analysis service. Deliver training and support to students using
these facilities, including both postgraduate and undergraduates.
5
Co-facilitate an expansion in current microscopy, spectroscopy and analysis service
capability by working within the MAS team and alongside other researchers to
develop a range of services (hardware and software) to suit user’s needs.
6
Attend relevant conferences to stay abreast of developments in methodology,
technology and image and data interpretation, to ensure that the microscopy,
spectroscopy and analysis service is utilised to its full potential. Disseminate
information to relevant staff members within MAS and the Faculty of Science
generally.
7
Actively promote the microscopy, spectroscopy and analysis service by collaborating
with existing members of the Faculty of Science, as well as other academic and
industrial partners, of benefit to the University. This will involve working alongside
researchers for in-depth and complex microscopy, spectroscopy or analysis,
resulting in publications.
8
Develop and manage consultancy activity for the microscopy, spectroscopy and
analysis service to generate additional income.
9
Monitor the operation of a water circulating system that circulates cooling water
through instruments (particularly the electron microscopes). Liaise with the Estates
department to ensure a continuous reliable cooling system at all times.
Ensure health & safety regulations are complied with in regard to electrical
equipment, lasers, radiation and liquid nitrogen.
12/02/2016
10
Oversee and manage the data archiving requirements of the MAS.
You will from time to time be required to undertake other duties of a similar nature as
reasonably required by your line manager.
12/02/2016