NMR Spectroscopist

The Defence Science and Technology Laboratory (Dstl) delivers high-impact science for the UK's defence, security and prosperity. In order to do this, we need self-motivated people who can apply their skills to ensure we are at the forefront of science. We work in niche areas which are sensitive in nature, operationally-critical to the UK and internationally recognised in importance. Dstl’s Chemical, Biological and Radiological (CBR) Division is looking for an NMR Spectroscopist to work within its growing Chemical and Biological Analysis and Attribution Capability (CBAAC).

We are looking for a motivated individual with practical experience in NMR Spectroscopy to work within the NMR capability of the Analytical Chemistry Team where they will be part of a highly skilled and motivated team of scientists, working collaboratively to grow and mature the capability. The candidate will have the unique opportunity to work across the breadth of the capability, from fundamental research and development of novel methodologies, to validation and future exploitation of the methods for analysis of real world problems. This also includes participation in national and international proficiency testing, publishing patents and papers, representing Dstl nationally and internationally. The successful candidate will help maintain the operation of the facility through regular maintenance of the NMR spectrometers and upkeep of associated NMR supplies.

The well-equipped NMR facility hosts three high resolution NMR spectrometers (one 600MHz and two 400 MHz spectrometers), a benchtop NMR and hyperpolarisation kits, with ongoing procurement of an additional 600 MHz to be installed into a newly-built, state-of-the-art facility. A variety of probes allow liquid-state and solid-state experiments as well as MRI and cryogenic experiments. The capability offers wide expertise that spans from quantitative and qualitative analysis chemical and biological samples in solid and liquid state, biomolecular NMR in liquid and solid state.

The role will receive appropriate training to work safely and securely in our laboratories, within an ISO 17025 quality system.

Dstl recognises the importance of diversity and inclusion as people from diverse backgrounds bring fresh ideas. We are committed to building an inclusive working environment in which each employee fulfils their potential and maximises their contribution.

We particularly welcome female and ethnic minority applicants and those from the LGBTQI community, as they are under-represented within Dstl at these levels.

In this role you will:

• Perform a wide range of NMR experiments, troubleshoot issues, data interpretation and reporting.
• Handle and/or prepare samples, some of which are Acute Toxicity Category 1 materials.
• Perform routine up keep of the spectrometers and NMR laboratory including cryogen filling, reporting technical issues and hosting visits from internal and external scientists and engineers.
• Ensure NMR consumables are well stocked and ordered in a timely manner.
• Receive training on the analysis of samples using accredited methods, participate in competency assessments and annual proficiency testing schemes.
• Undertake R&D activities and method validations including planning, experimental and reporting.
• Work with the Quality Team to prepare for the annual UK Accreditation Services (UKAS) surveillance visits.
• Meet all appropriate health and safety legislation and standards.
• Network with specialists internal and external to Dstl to seek out developments in related technical areas and use these networks to boost innovation.
• Develop safety cases for laboratory based methodologies that meet appropriate health and safety legislation and standards.

Job Dimensions

The Analytical Chemistry (AC) team currently consists of 33 staff managed by 3 Team Leaders. The expertise within the team includes Lab Technicians, Trainee Analytical Chemists, Analytical Chemists, Senior Analytical Chemists, Principal Analytical Chemists and a Technical Leadership team. You will be part of the AC team providing NMR support to a wide range of projects which includes, equipment acquisition, research programmes and operational response. The NMR facility at Dstl utilises three high resolution spectrometers: a 600 MHz machine (with cryogenically cooled probe); a 400 MHz machine for traditional work with liquids, a 400 MHz wide bore machine equipped for solid-state and MRI, a benchtop NMR and hyperpolarisation kits with ongoing acquisition of a new 600 MHz spectrometer to be installed in a newly-built, state-of-the-art facility

We are looking for someone who has:

• Understanding and knowledge of NMR spectroscopy and its applications in wider chemistry.
• Experience in developing, optimising, and troubleshooting NMR methodologies.
• Self-motivated flexible approach with good organisational skills and ability to communicate in a scientific manner.
• Ability to keep abreast of current advances in NMR technology and apply them to solve key UK defence requirements.
• Delivers to a high standard and takes pride in their work.
• Desire to develop their personal and professional skills through training and mentorship.
• The potential to expand science and technology networks including developing national and international collaboration.

Memberships
Membership of a relevant scientific body (e.g. Royal Society of Chemistry) is desirable.

We'll assess you against these behaviours during the selection process:

• Communicating and Influencing
• Working Together
• Delivering at Pace
• Managing a Quality Service

We'll assess you against these technical skills during the selection process:

• Team work is fundamental in the work we do. Please give examples (no more than 3) of where you have worked within a team. You should give examples of the challenges you faced and how you overcame them.
• This role will require troubleshooting skills to overcome technical problems. Please give two examples of when you have used initiative and problem solving skills.
• Please detail what interests you in the role and how you believe you meet the knowledge, skills, and experience required.

Benefits

Dstl’s full range of great benefits can be found in the information pack which includes:

• Financial: An excellent pension scheme starting from 26% employer contribution (find out more here). In Year Rewarding Achievement bonuses and thank you vouchers. Rental deposit scheme and cycle to work scheme.

• Flexible working: Working options include alternative working patterns, compressed hours, job shares and annualised hours

• Flexible working hours: Ability to bank hours in a 12 month reference period including the ability to accrue and use 3 days per calendar month.

• Annual leave: A generous annual leave allowance starting at 25 days pro rata (rising to 30 after 5 years) plus 8 public holidays with the ability to buy/sell 5 additional days per annum.

• Family: Maternity, adoption or shared parental leave of up to 26 weeks with full pay, an additional 13 weeks statutory pay and a further 13 weeks unpaid

• Learning and Development: Encouragement and support on charterships, accreditations and access to fully funded apprenticeships up to level 7 (Masters Degree). Paid memberships with 2 relevant bodies/institutions. Employees have access to Civil Service Learning.

• Facilities: Onsite parking, EV Charging points, restaurants, cafés and gyms.

The information pack can be found attached to the job specification on Civil Service Jobs.

Diversity

We have a number of support networks to ensure all employees feel supported at work. These include the following:

• Sexual Orientation and Gender Identity Network

• Race, Faith and Culture Network

• Parents and Carer Support Network

• Alternative Working Network

• Gender Equality Network

• New Starters Network

• Enabled Network, for people with visible and non-visible disabilities.

For further information about Dstl please check out our LinkedIn page

Job contact :

Name :
Dstl Recruitment
Email :
DstlNMR@dstl.gov.uk

Recruitment team

Email :
DstlNMR@dstl.gov.uk