Academic ConnectResearch Associate (Fixed Term)
Research Associate (Fixed Term)
A Research Assistant/Associate is sought to work on the development of efficient and highly resilient solar cells for space applications within the Department of Physics under the supervision of Prof. Louise Hirst.
In this role the successful candidate will develop new process methodologies to fabricate ultra-thin III-V photovoltaic devices in the state-of-the-art Cavendish Nanofabrication facility at the Ray Dolby Centre, the new home for Physics in Cambridge. This will include designing new process flows for the fabrication of high performance, larger area devices, resilient to the hostile conditions found in space environments, with a focus on uniformity and reproducibility.
They will use semiconductor device simulation tools including drift-diffusion and optical simulation tools including transfer-matrix method and rigorous coupled-wave analysis to understand device behaviour and improve design.
They will use techniques including quantum efficiency, light and dark IV and ellipsometry to characterise performance of fabricated devices and correlate with device and optical simulation to identify design limitations.
They will undertake particle radiation testing of devices and use space environment simulation tools to estimate performance for technologically important mission profiles.
The successful candidate will hold (or be close to obtaining) a PhD in Physics or a closely related field with a proven track record in pursuing independent scientific investigation.
Candidates with experience in design, simulation and characterization of solar cells and/or experience with III-V optoelectronic device fabrication are sought. A demonstrated ability to write reports, present results and contribute to academic papers and experience managing own workload are also desirable. Proven organisational, communication and team working skills are also desirable.
Fixed-term: The funds for this post are available until 30 June 2027 in the first instance.
Click the 'Apply' button below to register an account with our recruitment system (if you have not already) and apply online.
Please ensure that you upload a covering letter and CV in the Upload section of the online application. The covering letter should outline how you match the criteria for the post and why you are applying for this role. If you upload any additional documents which have not been requested, we will not be able to consider these as part of your application.
Informal enquiries should be directed to Prof Louise Hirst, lh619@cam.ac.uk
Please quote reference KA49227 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.
Key information
Department/location
Salary
£34,610-£35,608
£37,694-£46,049
Reference
KA49227
Category
Date published
26 March 2026
Closing date
26 April 2026
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