"Research Associate in III-V Devices (Fixed Term)"

University of Cambridge - Department of Physics

Location: Cambridge

Salary: £33,002 to £46,049

Hours: Full Time

Contract Type: Fixed-Term/Contract

Placed On: 27th March 2026

Closes: 26th April 2026

Job Ref: KA49239

A Research Assistant/Associate is sought to work on the development of InGaAs/InP Single Photon Avalanche Diodes (SPADs) funded by the UKRI Quantum Hub on Quantum Enabled Position, Navigation and Timing Hub (QEPNT), working under the supervision of Prof. Louise Hirst and Dr. Dave Ellis.

In this role you will design novel SPAD architectures in III-V epitaxial materials using electrical and photonic simulation methods to target key performance parameters needed for position, navigation and timing (PNT) applications including detectors for imaging LiDAR.

You will develop new process methodologies and fabricate SPADs in the state-of-the-art Cavendish Nanofabrication facility at the Ray Dolby Centre, the new home for Physics in Cambridge.

You will develop and maintain optical, spectroscopic and electrical characterisation set-ups for SPADs, characterise devices and analyse performance.

You will work with QEPNT project partners to integrate devices into PNT demonstrator systems.

You will prepare manuscripts for publication and present the results in national and international conferences.

You will work collaboratively with team members, support with supervision and training of students working towards programme deliverables, and engage with the wider QEPNT Hub participating in partner meetings and events.

Your role will support and maintain the University's national and international reputation for excellence in research.

Fixed-term: The funds for this post are available until 30 November 2027 in the first instance.

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

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.

Candidates may also be interested in this vacancy within the Department of Materials Science and Metallurgy https://www.cam.ac.uk/jobs/postdoctoral-research-associate-fixed-term-lj49226

Informal enquiries should be directed to Prof Louise Hirst, lh619@cam.ac.uk or Dr Davie Ellis, djpe2@cam.ac.uk

Please quote reference KA49239 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.