Salary: £37,694 - £46,049
FTE: 1.0 (35 hours/week)
Contract Type: Fixed Term (17 months)
Closing Date: 18th September 2026
Applications are invited for the position of Research Associate (Grade 7). The successful candidate will hold a full-time appointment in the University of Strathclyde’s Institute of Photonics, in the Department of Physics (1.0 Full Time Equivalent, FTE). The candidate will be based in IoP’s microfabrication facility and in the optics labs, combining tasks on design and microfabrication of photonic components with optical and radiofrequency characterization of optoelectronic devices and photonic integrated circuits.
The appointment encompasses the design, implementation and characterisation of co-packaged solutions for neuromorphic photonic components to answer the project objectives. The successful candidate will work closely with established academics and experienced microfabrication personnel. The project objectives completion is relying on the expertise of the IoP in the characterization and processing of optoelectronic devices and photonic integrated circuits spanning over a decade of international leading demonstrators both with academics and industrial partners.
To be considered for the role, you will have a PhD in an appropriate discipline (ideally physics or engineering), significant relevant research and technical experience in photonics, optoelectronic device microfabrication and characterisation. You will have experience in photonic design using python-based libraries (GDS-helpers, K-layout), in planning and organising workloads, including the ability to develop microfabrication processes and apply best practice, and you will have a demonstrated ability to be fully autonomous in employing a full suite of cleanroom equipment, including wire bonding and flipchip bonding. You will have experience in laser direct writing photolithography systems. The role necessitates the ability to execute electrical and optical devices characterisation within photonic laboratory and therefore requires the essential understanding of optoelectronic devices.
Excellent interpersonal and communication skills, with the ability to listen, engage and explain, and to present experimental results in an adequate way to partners, and stakeholders. The University welcomes applications from candidates across a broad range of backgrounds, recognising that diversity strengthens our academic community and enriches our research and teaching mission. As an employer committed to equality, diversity, and inclusion, we strive to cultivate a supportive and respectful environment in which all colleagues can succeed. The University offers highquality working conditions, including flexible working arrangements where appropriate, to enable staff to balance their professional commitments with personal and family responsibilities.
Extension of contract may be awarded to answer future industrial contracts and other academic research projects.
Initial interviews have been scheduled for late September/ early October 2026.
For informal enquiries, please contact Javier Porte Parera, Senior Lecturer at javier.porte-parera@strath.ac.uk