Research Assistant/Research Associate (Fixed Term)

University of Cambridge - Department of Chemical Engineering and Biotechnology

Location: Cambridge

Salary: £33,002 to £46,049 per annum

Hours: Full Time

Contract Type: Fixed-Term/Contract

Placed On: 19th March 2026

Closes: 18th May 2026

Job Ref: NQ49154

Applications are invited for a Post-Doctoral Research Associate (PDRA) to work on vapour deposition of high-performance halide perovskite multijunction (tandem and triple-junction) solar cells. The candidate would be working as part of the ERC Consolidator Grant project VAPOURISE working on new deposition tools dedicated to the project. This project seeks to develop epitaxial growth of halide perovskites to enable new devices for energy generation (solar cells), conversion (solar fuels) and use (quantum emission) utilising multimodal characterisation platforms and automated analysis pipelines. This work builds on recent work in our group developing epitaxial growth by vapour deposition (Science 2025) and multimodal understanding of materials (Nature 2020, 2022, Science 2021, Nature Energy 2025).

We are looking for a highly motivated and enthusiastic candidate with a PhD in Physics, Chemistry, Materials Science, Engineering, Chemical Engineering or a related area. A proven track record of scientific publication and presentation at international conferences is essential.

Experience in perovskite solar cell (and/or other optoelectronic device) fabrication and characterisation is essential. Experience with multijunction perovskite solar cells and/or vapour deposition of halide perovskites is highly desired. Experience working with coding, automation and algorithm development is desired. The ability to conduct self-directed work whilst working together with colleagues in a wider programme will be essential. The role holder will also manage the key experimental setups associated with their work and extend existing capabilities. The PDRA will be team-oriented and work closely with other students (including some daily supervision) and PDRAs and international collaborators.

The successful PDRA candidate for this post will join the Optoelectronic Materials and Device Spectroscopy group in the Department of Chemical Engineering & Biotechnology, and will also be part of the Optoelectronics Group. We are an inclusive and diverse group driving a number of active outreach and widening participation activities. Collectively, the PDRA will have access to world-leading expertise and facilities in the field of hybrid and organic electronics.

The successful candidate would start anytime from 1st September 2026, with some flexibility.

Those who have submitted but not yet received their PhD will initially be appointed as a Research Assistant and promoted to Research Associate when the PhD is awarded.

Fixed-term: The funds for this post are available for 2 years in the first instance.

To apply online for this vacancy and to view further information about the role, please click the 'Apply' button above.

Should you require any further details on the role, please email Mr Vito Candela, HR Administrator, at hr@ceb.cam.ac.uk.

Applications closing date 18th of May 2026.

Please quote reference NQ49154 on your application and in any correspondence about this vacancy.

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.