Ref: OD-2010-006-HRS

The National Physical Laboratory (NPL) is one of the UK's leading science facilities and research centres. It is a world-leading centre of excellence in developing and applying the most accurate standards, science and technology available.

NPL occupies a unique position as the UK's National Measurement Institute and sits at the intersection between scientific discovery and real world application. Its expertise and original research have underpinned quality of life, innovation and competitiveness for UK citizens and business for more than a century.

A physicist is required to work in the area of magnetic measurements.

Current research activities include improving the noise floor of the NPL low magnetic field laboratory (LMF) in which the ambient low frequency magnetic field (<1 Hz) is reduced to less than 1 nT at present. This is required to enable the development of novel magnetic sensors based on phenomenon exhibited by thin magnetic films and multilayers that can theoretically exhibit sensitivities in excess of the existing noise floor of the LMF. This project involves establishing, developing and implementing methods to reduce the noise floor to 1 pT. The work will also involve measurements in the LMF facility for a project funded by the European Space Agency on the development of a magnetic gradiometer for the LISA mission. The gradiometer is required to determine the magnetic force contribution to the uncertainty budget of the LISA project. Measurements are required at 0.1 mHz at the nT level. Experience in working in a low magnetic field environment, low magnetic field measurements and the properties of soft magnetic materials are essential. Other research activities include developing a pulse microwave magnetometer to determine the time domain dynamics of magnetic thin films with a thickness of 10 nm up to a frequency of 20 GHz. These properties are needed to optimise the permeability spectrum of the materials for application in high frequency electronics, memory and data storage.

Other research interests include the development of a measurement technique for determining the magnetic properties of soft magnetic materials at temperatures up to 450 °C and at stress levels of up to 450 MPa applied simultaneously. This supports the development of generators embedded in a gas turbine for MORE electric aircraft. Existing areas include magnetic instrument measurement at DC with magnetic fields ranging from 50,000 times lower to 400,000 times higher than the Earth's magnetic field and at frequencies up to 120 kHz. These measurements support regulations on exposure levels as well as providing characterisation of state of the art sensor technologies. Magnetic materials from the latest rare earth permanent magnets to high permeability soft magnetic materials are covered using a range of measurement methods and instrumentation. These measurements support users of materials in a number of sectors ranging from health to space exploration.

The successful applicant will have a good degree in a relevant subject, and be able to demonstrate a dynamic and innovative approach to challenging work, and significant interpersonal skills. The postholder will be involved in providing novel and innovative approaches to new and challenging issues in magnetic measurements and supporting services to industry in this area. This will involve extending measurement capabilities in magnetic materials to cover harsh environments.

As part of the Serco Group plc, we offer competitive salaries, a wealth of career opportunities and a wide range of benefits.

NPL is based in a unique research environment which is located in pleasant surroundings on the edge of Bushy Park in south-west London. We have a host of onsite facilities including a subsidised crèche, restaurant, and a sports and social club.

NPL Management Limited is committed to supporting their people to develop both personally and professionally and is committed to equal opportunities.

To apply for this post online, click on 'Apply for this vacancy' below. Alternatively, email your CV quoting the vacancy reference number OD-2010-006-HRS to recruitment@npl.co.uk

Apply for this vacancy

Date posted: 3 March 2010

Closing date: 19 March 2010

For further information, please contact:

Amber Lauchlan
Human Resources
Tel: +44 20 8943 6254
Email: amber.lauchlan@npl.co.uk