Position Overview
- Ongoing | Full Time | $119k - $154k +15.4% super
- Lucas Heights | Work-life balance | Health & Wellbeing Programs
- Be involved in cutting-edge research at a world-class neutron facility
- Inelastic neutron scattering
About the Opportunity
The OPAL Reactor provides neutrons to a suite of 15 neutron-scattering instruments, within the Australian Centre for Neutron Scattering (ACNS), the leading centre for neutron scattering in the Southern Hemisphere.
We are seeking a suitably qualified scientist to step into an ongoing Instrument Scientist position responsible for Pelican Cold Neutron Chopper Spectrometer. For this role we are particularly interested in applicants with experience in inelastic neutron scattering.
For further details about all instruments, see https://www.ansto.gov.au/ACNS
An Instrument Scientist operates, maintains, and improves a neutron-scattering instrument or other capabilities at the OPAL research reactor for the benefit of the user community. Reporting to the Inelastic Neutron Scattering Group Manager, you will have experience undertaking experiments, supporting users, and be able to analyse neutron scattering data. You will also be required to undertake scientific research as well contribute to the technical development of ACNS’s neutron scattering capabilities.
About You
"The successful candidate will work together with our inelastic scattering team and technical staff to deliver excellent outcomes for our users, enabling cutting-edge science using our unique capabilities."
Kirrily Rule, Inelastic Neutron Scattering Group Manager, ACNS
Your Duties and Responsibilities
- Provide scientific and technical support, advice and training to national and international neutron-beam instrument users, including the making of scientific and technical decisions, ensuring outcomes from allocated beam-time are maximised and the user experience is optimal;
- Undertake aligned research and that delivers high-quality scientific outcomes;
- Reduce and correct user data and provide advice or further data processing and interpretation;
- Liaise with the scientific community to develop the user base for the neutron-scattering instrument to ensure maximum usage of equipment, develop the community of collaborators and users, and maximise revenue opportunities;
- Develop knowledge of industry best practice and technological developments to contribute to improvement of the instrument and associated facilities;
This position may be appointed at either the Instrument Scientist or Senior Instrument Scientist level, depending on the successful candidate’s qualifications, skills and experience. Two Position Descriptions are provided to outline the requirements and responsibilities applicable to each level.
Please click here to view the Position Description.
About Us
ANSTO leverages great science to deliver big outcomes. We partner with scientists and engineers and apply new technologies to provide real-world benefits. Our work improves human health, saves lives, builds our industries and protects the environment. ANSTO is the home of Australia's most significant landmark and national infrastructure for research. Thousands of scientists from industry and academia benefit from gaining access to state-of-the-art instruments every year.
Working with us you will enjoy
ANSTO offers training and development, performance base salary increases and an extensive range of leave provisions to help employees balance work and personal commitments.
We support and reward our employees through eligibility for:
- Training, development and mentoring opportunities
- Support flexible working where possible
- 20 days of recreation leave annually
- 18 days personal/carers leave annually
- 3 days paid leave (Christmas to New Year)
- Parental leave: 18 weeks (primary carer), 8 weeks (secondary carer, increasing to 18 weeks by 2027)
- Annual flu vaccinations
- Cultural, NAIDOC, and First Nations ceremonial leave
If you want to join a world class organisation that's making a difference in the lives of Australians, apply now!
How to Apply
For further technical information relating to this position please refer to the Position Description or contact Richard Mole on +61 (02) 9717 7271 or Richard.Mole@ansto.gov.au. For all other queries please contact Talent Acquisition on +61 (02) 9717 3740.
To be eligible for appointment, applicants will require a security and pre-employment medical assessment.
Application closing date: 6th December 2026 at 11:59pm
Australian Citizens Preferred
In order to solve great challenges, we need great minds and great teams. At ANSTO, we understand that diverse teams produce better outcomes and we value the merit that a diverse perspective can bring to our team. We encourage people from diverse backgrounds to apply for our roles including Aboriginal and Torres Strait Islander people, primary carers, those with a disability, and women in STEM. ANSTO is a charter member of the Science in Australia Gender Equity (SAGE) initiative and is proudly taking action to create a gender-inclusive workforce.