Research Associate on the DarkSide-20k Dark Matter Experiment

Research Associate on the DarkSide-20k Dark Matter Experiment
Science and Technology Facilities Council
Duration: 2-year fixed term contract
Location: Rutherford Appleton Laboratory, Harwell, Oxfordshire OX11 0DE
Salary: £42,688 per annum
Hours: Full-time
Closing date for applications: 1st December 2026

Applications are invited for a Research Associate position in Experimental Particle Physics to work on novel background mitigation techniques and dark matter search analyses on the DarkSide-20k experiment, within the Particle Physics Department (PPD) at the STFC Rutherford Appleton Laboratory (RAL). The post will initially be for two years.

PPD is one of the largest Particle Physics (PP) groups in the UK and contributes to all major PP experiments in the UK. Since 2019, RAL has been involved with the DarkSide-20k experiment, the flagship global liquid argon (LAr) direct dark matter detection experiment. The 50-tonne detector, currently under construction at the LNGS laboratory in Gran Sasso, Italy, is expected to improve sensitivity to TeV-scale dark matter particles by more than an order of magnitude compared with current searches, while also providing unprecedented sensitivity to low-mass dark matter candidates. This goal is realised with low-radioactivity, low-noise silicon photomultiplier (SiPM) sensor and readout technology, custom designed for DarkSide-20k, and a comprehensive background mitigation strategy.

The successful applicant will join the DarkSide-20k neutron veto working group, led by RAL PPD, and take a leading role in developing crucial neutron background mitigation strategies for DarkSide-20k, which are the most dangerous background to the dark matter search. This work will involve interfacing with the data acquisition (DAQ), cosmogenic veto, calibration, and reconstruction working groups. The successful applicant will directly contribute to the flagship dark matter search analysis, alongside opportunities to contribute to complementary dark matter searches and sensitivity studies of additional physics signatures accessible with the DarkSide-20k detector. Furthermore, the candidate will have the option to undertake short overseas visits to LNGS, contributing directly to the construction and commissioning of the detector – a unique opportunity to play a hands-on role in a large-scale experiment built perhaps only once every ten years.

The successful applicant will also have the opportunity to get involved with low-temperature R&D related to the QUEST-DMC experiment in the newly established PPD cryogenics laboratory, home to a brand-new dilution refrigerator capable of reaching temperatures as low as 20 mK. QUEST-DMC is direct dark matter detection experiment that combines ultra-low temperature and particle physics expertise to search for sub-GeV dark matter candidates using a superfluid Helium-3 bolometer and quantum sensor readout.

The applicant must have or be about to receive a Ph.D. in Particle Physics or a similar field. Applications should consist of a CV and a covering letter explaining why the candidate is suited to this position and the names and addresses of three referees. For an informal discussion about the role, please contact Dr. Ashlea Kemp (ashlea.kemp@stfc.ac.uk).

Candidate Specification

To apply for this role, we are looking for the following [(S) will be measured at shortlisting, (I) will be measured at interview, (S&I) is both]:

Essential

• PhD. in Particle Physics or similar qualification (S).

• Relevant postgraduate experience in particle physics experiments, or equivalent (S&I).

• Familiarity with C++ and/or Python (S&I).

• Working knowledge of Monte Carlo simulations and/or data analysis techniques (S&I).

• Working knowledge of calibration and/or particle identification techniques (S&I).

• Ability to undertake original research (S&I).

• Ability to work independently (I).

• High degree of self-motivation (I).

• Ability to work on several activities in parallel (S&I).

• Fluent English (S&I).

• Ability to work collaboratively with large groups of people from a range of different countries (S&I).

• Good communication skills (I).

• Ability and willingness to acquire required knowledge (I).

Benefits

We recognise and value our employees as individuals and aim to provide a favourable pay and rewards package. We are committed to supporting employees' development and promote a culture of continuous learning!

Benefits include:

• An outstanding defined benefit pension scheme.

• 30 days' annual leave in addition to 10.5 public and privilege days (full-time equivalent).

• Employee discounts and offers on retail and leisure activities.

• Employee assistance programme, providing confidential help and advice.

• Flexible working options.

Plus many more benefits and wellbeing initiatives that enable our employees to have a great work-life balance! For further information on our benefits please see Benefits of working at UK Research and Innovation (UKRI).

UKRI is an Equal Opportunity & Disability Confident Employer.

Please apply online. If you experience any issues during your application, please contact Recruitment@ukri.org.

Please note, if you will require sponsorship to work in the UK, as part of your sponsorship application, you and any dependants travelling with you, will be required to pay costs directly to The Home Office for the application before you start your role with us. UKRI is normally able to reimburse some, or all of these fees after you have become an employee, and this can be discussed with the Hiring Manager. For more information, please visit https://www.gov.uk/skilled-worker-visa/how-much-it-costs or contact Recruitment@ukri.org.