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The Particle Physics and Particle Astrophysics group at the University of Sheffield is seeking to recruit an enthusiastic research associate to work with Prof. Dan Tovey and Dr. Adam Brown on the LUX-ZEPLIN (LZ) liquid xenon dark matter search experiment at SURF in South Dakota. LZ is currently the world's most sensitive dark matter experiment. The post-holder will analyse LZ data to search for low energy nuclear recoil signals for WIMP dark matter, and also contribute to the maintenance, operation and calibration of the experiment. Experience of estimation and modelling of backgrounds to low energy nuclear recoil signals would be an advantage. The post-holder will also be expected to contribute to the production of Monte Carlo simulation samples for the experiment. The post is available from 1 October 2025 for a duration of 6 months initially, however it is expected that awarded funding will soon be released by STFC to extend the post by a further 18 months (24 months total). Further extensions are subject to future STFC Consolidated Grant funding bids.
*Main Duties And Responsibilities*
* Contribute effectively to the analysis of data from the LZ experiment, with a focus on the search for low energy nuclear recoil signals of WIMP dark matter.
* Contribute to the maintenance, operation and calibration of the LZ experiment.
* Contribute to the estimation and modelling of backgrounds in the LZ experiment.
* Contribute to the production of Monte Carlo background simulations for LZ.
* Prepare papers for journals/presentations in-house, in-collaboration or at national/international conferences or seminars to disseminate research findings.
* Write supporting documents to contribute to and support the work of the research group
* Read academic papers, journals and textbooks to keep abreast of developments.
* Plan for specific aspects of research programmes.
* If given a particular hypothesis to examine, plan for your own contribution up to three months ahead, incorporating issues such as the availability of resources, deadlines, project milestones and overall research aims.
* Coordinate and liaise with other members of the research group over work progress. Supervise research team/activities if required.
* Continuously monitor and check results. The unpredictability of research means that daily planning needs to accommodate new developments.
* Plan several months in advance to meet deadlines for journal publications and to prepare presentations and papers for collaboration meetings and conferences.
* Carry out other duties, commensurate with the grade and remit of the post.
Person Specification
Our diverse community of staff and students recognises the unique abilities, backgrounds, and beliefs of all. We foster a culture where everyone feels they belong and is respected. Even if your past experience doesn't match perfectly with this role's criteria, your contribution is valuable, and we encourage you to apply. Please ensure that you reference the application criteria in the application statement when you apply.
Criteria
*Essential Or Desirable
Stage(s) assessed at*
PhD or equivalent in particle physics or a related discipline (or equivalent experience)
Essential
Application
Experience of analysis of data from low background experiments
Essential
Application/interview
Experience of conducting searches for low energy nuclear recoil signals for dark matter
Desirable
Application/interview
Experience of using statistical data analysis tools for dark matter searches
Desirable
Application/interview
Experience of estimation and modelling of backgrounds in dark matter searches
Desirable
Application/interview
Effective communication skills, both written and verbal, report writing skills and experience of delivering presentations
Essential
Application/interview
Excellent team working and interpersonal skills
Essential
Application/interview
Ability to develop creative approaches to problem solving and have an appreciation of longer-term implications
Essential
Application/interview
Experience of developing and maintaining a network of contacts throughout own work area
Essential
Application/interview
Ability to work independently to achieve specific goals within tight deadlines
Essential
Application/interview
Essential
Experience of adapting own skills to new circumstances
Application/interview
Further Information
Grade
7
Salary
£38,784
Work arrangement
Full-time
Duration
1st October st March 2026
Line manager
Professor of Particle Physics
Direct reports
N/A
Our website
For informal enquiries about this job contact Professor Dan Tovey, Professor of Particle Physics: on
Next steps in the recruitment process
It is anticipated that the selection process will take place on Monday 15 September. This will consist of a brief presentation (with a maximum of 3 slides) and interview. We plan to let candidates know if they have progressed to the selection stage on the week commencing Monday 8 September. If you need any support, equipment or adjustments to enable you to participate in any element of the recruitment process you can contact
hicks-
.
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