Steven Hindmarsh - Senior Research Group Technician, Electron Microscopy Research Technology Platform (RTP)

Steven tells us about his current role, how he became involved in electron microscopy and his future plans.

What does your role involve?

Working within the Electron Microscopy RTP I have a highly diverse technical role. Much of my time is spent using the microscopes for both internal research and external industrial work. I train new users from a variety of backgrounds and offer continued advice on technology and methodology. I also design and manufacture components and devices to allows new or enable improved experiments. On a daily basis, I run maintenance and troubleshooting duties help keep the facility running smoothly.

When did you join Warwick?

I joined the Department of Physics in 2011, initially as a trainee technician working within the Microscopy and Surface Physics groups. I applied hoping for a career change, and eager for a new challenge that made better use of my product development background.

What qualifications and roles did you have prior to this?

Previous roles included Measured Building surveying and Building Efficiency surveying, producing architectural plans of buildings and Energy Performance Certificates. I have a degree in Product Design from Bournemouth University, with a year spent in industry designing street furniture and lighting.

What training and development have you completed at Warwick?

My first year at Warwick involved gaining experience within different areas in Physics, including the mechanical and electronic workshops, electron microscopy, thermal analysis and X-ray. I then spent two years in Electron Microscopy as a Research Group Technician, learning about the equipment from highly experienced technical and academic staff.
In 2014 I transferred to my current position as a Senior Research Group Technician in the newly created Electron Microscopy RTP. Within this role I’ve received manufacturer training for new technology and equipment, alongside external courses on topics such as vacuum maintenance.

What are your future plans?

I’m hoping to start a Masters by Research later in the year, sponsored by industry. I hope that this will enable me to expand my knowledge of different techniques and capabilities, which will in turn benefit the research community at Warwick.

Anything you would have done differently or advice you would give to others?

The opportunity to work in a number of areas helped me to build relationships, and understand more about what is possible at the University. Make sure you use of the vast amount of knowledge available at the University, from both the technical and academic communities.