Research Assistant/Associate in Optical Engineering (Fixed Term)

A position exists, for a Research Assistant/Associate in the Department of Engineering, to work on Optical Engineering.

The post holder will be located in West Cambridge, Cambridgeshire, UK.

The key responsibilities and duties include: conducting research and the development of novel high- precision optical measurements in photonic devices, in particular in the context of spatial light modulators with subpixel-accuracy hologram setting for precise beam steering, system design and implementation and performance benchmarking and optimisation; research and design tests and experiments to address research objective and find solutions; compile and analyse quantitative and qualitative data, prepare reports and present results to summarise main findings and conclusions; write journal articles to reveal research findings if possible; manage own research and administrative activities, with guidance if required; work in a team and provide support to other work when required; and may assist in the development of student research skills.

The skills, qualifications and experience required to perform the role are: having obtained or being close to obtaining a PhD in a relevant specialist subject of physics, optics, and/or optical engineering, and demonstrating the ability to perform key responsibilities and duties as described, in the context of a strong publication record. Research experience in high-accuracy optical measurement, including subpixel-accuracy concept, optical design, system implementation and computation evaluation and benchmarking is essential, and development experience in point spread function modelling, machine learning and/or optical simulation is desirable.

Appointment at Research Associate level is dependent on having a PhD. Those who have submitted but not yet received their PhD will be appointed at Research Assistant level, which will be amended to Research Associate once the PhD has been awarded.

Salary Ranges: Research Assistant: £31,396 - £33,966, Research Associate: £36,024 - £44,263.

Fixed-term: The funds for this post are available for 12 months in the first instance.

The University actively supports equality, diversity and inclusion and encourages applications from all sections of society.

The University has a responsibility to ensure that all employees are eligible to live and work in the UK.