The Aston Institute of Health and Neurodevelopment (IHN) is seeking to appoint a support officer for academic research projects across our two magnetoencephalography (MEG) facilities and in the context of our wider neuroimaging and virtual reality research infrastructure. The post-holder will drive technical and training aspects of the MEG activities, both on a day-to-day basis and in supporting development of the future applications of MEG.   

The IHN is a specialist research facility with a focus on research with children and young people, “from molecules to minds”. We have an active and well-established MEG research group, and are equipped with both cryogenic and helium-OPM MEG systems which are used in both basic and clinical research. 

Duties for the successful applicant will involve supporting facility users (academic staff and their research fellows and PhD students) to develop and deliver outstanding research.

This will include:

• Advanced technical support for experimental design and implementation of MEG studies.
• Developing and advancing techniques for data analysis pipelines.
• Training users to use the equipment safely and competently in best practice for MEG acquisition.
• Day-to-day management of MEG facilities.

The ideal candidate will:

• Have a strong technical background, and enjoy working with machines. 
• Be comfortable troubleshooting hardware and software challenges.
• Be a confident and adaptable programmer, able to work effectively with the key discipline-specific software environments including open-source packages for MEG data analysis.
• Be good at working with people, approachable, and able to help drive a productive and collegiate working environment. 
• Become able to train and support users.

Experience in offering training, and hands-on experience in neuroimaging are desirable but not essential.

What we offer:

• Aston University is a dynamic and vibrant campus located within Birmingham city centre, which has excellent transport links via bus or train.
• Excellent training and development opportunities.
• A generous annual leave scheme with 30 days bookable leave and a further 13 days bank holiday and University Closure days.
• Everyday discounts to a number of activities and retailers.
• Great family friendly policies.
• On site gym and pool with discounted staff membership available
• Further information on our Benefits and Rewards can be found here.

This role may meet the requirements for Skilled Worker visa sponsorship. If you require sponsorship, Aston University will assess eligibility if you are shortlisted for the role. Please note we are unable to confirm individual eligibility before shortlisting.

See here for more information on Skilled Worker visa eligibility: https://www.gov.uk/skilled-worker-visa