Research Associate in Colour X-ray Tomography

The University of Manchester - Science and Engineering - Department of Materials - School of Natural Sciences

Placed On: 24th February 2026

Closes: 23rd March 2026

Job Ref: SAE-030740

Job reference: SAE-030740

Salary: Grade 6 or 7: £37,694- £58,225 per annum, depending on relevant experience

Faculty/Organisational Unit: Science and Engineering

Location: Manchester

Employment type: Fixed Term

Division/Team: Department of Materials

Hours Per Week: Full time (1 FTE)

Closing date: 23/03/2026

Contract Duration: 24 Months (with possibility of extension)

School/Directorate: School of Natural Sciences

Join a World-Leading Research Team to work on Colour X-ray Imaging!

Are you ready to push the boundaries of imaging science? The University of Manchester invites applications for an exciting Postdoctoral Research Associate position in Colour X-ray Tomography, as part of the groundbreaking INCOLOURXF project.

This is your opportunity to work at the forefront of hyperspectral X-ray imaging, developing cutting-edge techniques that combine 3D imaging with elemental and structural analysis.

You’ll be part of the National Research Facility for lab X-ray CT (NXCT) and collaborate closely with the Ghent University Centre for X-ray Tomography (UGCT) in Ghent, Belgium.

What you will do:

• Develop and optimise a dedicated Colour X-ray CT test station.
• Integrate and enhance the use of HEXITEC detectors for advanced imaging.
• Create new workflows for hyperspectral data reconstruction, visualisation, and analysis.
• Lead experimental design, data acquisition, and interpret complex data sets to drive research outcomes.
• Collaborate internationally, including a planned one-year research visit to UGCT in Belgium.
• Publish high-impact research and contribute to future funding proposals.

Why join us?

• Be part of a vibrant, interdisciplinary team at one of the world’s top research universities.
• Use and develop state-of-the-art imaging facilities as part of an international collaboration.
• Contribute to a transformative project with real-world impact across science and industry.

What you will get in return:

• Fantastic market leading Pension scheme
• Excellent employee health and wellbeing services including an Employee Assistance Programme
• Exceptional starting annual leave entitlement, plus bank holidays
• Additional paid closure over the Christmas period
• Local and national discounts at a range of major retailers, and more.

As an equal opportunities employer we welcome applicants from all sections of the community regardless of age, sex, gender (or gender identity), ethnicity, disability, sexual orientation and transgender status. All appointments are made on merit.

Our University is positive about flexible working – you can find out more here.