Post-Doc Research Associate / Assistant at University of Cambridge: Multi-Dimensional Scanning Electron Diffraction (4D-STEM) and Analysis

Post-Doc Research Associate / Assistant at University of Cambridge: Multi-Dimensional Scanning Electron Diffraction (4D-STEM) and Analysis

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A Post-Doctoral Research Associate / Assistant position is available immediately in the development of ‘multi-dimensional’ electron diffraction using a combination of scanning electron diffraction (SED) (also known as 4D-STEM), electron tomography, and data analysis. Experimental work will be conducted primarily on a recently installed Thermo Fisher Spectra 300 (S)TEM, the first of its kind in the UK.

The successful candidate will be involved in two inter-related projects, running concurrently throughout the term of the post-doc.

• The first project is focused on using a combination of SED, precession diffraction, and electron tomography to enable crystal strain to be mapped quantitatively in three dimensions at the nanoscale. This project is an EPSRC-funded collaboration with the Universities of Manchester and Oxford in which strain tomography techniques are being developed across different lengthscales using electrons (in Cambridge), x-rays, and neutrons, together with novel approaches to tomographic reconstructions.
• The second project, which dovetails readily with the first, will focus on broader aspects of the SED technique, considering the acquisition and data analysis pipeline. Multi-dimensional techniques such as in the first project inevitably lead to ‘big data’ sets and this project will focus on further developing python-based data analysis software (e.g. pyXem) incorporating machine learning algorithms, in-painting, etc. Moreover, the project will consider ‘smarter’ ways to acquire data, reducing acquisition times (and dose), implementing novel scan geometries.

This post-doc position provides a great opportunity for networking and collaboration, the first project within the UK and the second as part of ESTEEM3, a well-established and successful pan-European microscopy network.

EXPECTED PROFILE

Applicants must have a strong background in (S)TEM and electron diffraction. Applicants should also have experience with analysing multi-dimensional data (using e.g. machine learning) and proficiency in Python programming would be highly beneficial. A working knowledge of tomography would also be desirable. The successful candidate must have (or be about to obtain) a relevant PhD and will have good communication skills.

OTHER DETAILS

• Job Ref: LJ26236
• Salary: £26,715 - £40,322
• Fixed-term: The funds for this post are available immediately for up to 3 years.

APPLICATIONS

• Closing date: 14 May 2021
• To apply online for this vacancy and to view further information about the role, please visit here.
• Informal enquiries may be sent to Professor Paul Midgley (pam33@cam.ac.uk).

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