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- Tasks: Lead the manufacturing of innovative optical fibres and collaborate on high-impact research projects.
- Company: Join the University of Southampton's pioneering Hollow Core Fibre Research Group.
- Benefits: Enjoy hands-on training, a supportive team, and opportunities for professional growth.
- Why this job: Be at the forefront of advanced optical technology and make a real-world impact.
- Qualifications: Experience in optical component manufacturing and a strong desire to learn and grow.
- Other info: This role offers potential for independence and career development in a diverse environment.
The predicted salary is between 36000 - 60000 £ per year.
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Join to apply for the Senior Research Technician role at Cyber Security Academy Southampton
Join the pioneering Hollow Core Fibre Research Group at the University of Southampton. We are a team of scientists, engineers, and technicians working together to push the boundaries of optical fibre technology, through innovative research on hollow core fibres (HCFs). Exploiting collaborations with a host of industry partners we look to develop novel optical fibres that bring progress to society.
Role Overview
We are seeking a Senior Research Technician for an industrially-funded project sponsored by Microsoft Azure Fiber, aiming to develop HCFs for high-capacity, ultrafast data communications. The position is funded until December 2027, with a strong possibility of renewal beyond that. You will be working on fabrication of novel optical preforms and fibres, including all aspects of glass preform manufacture, optical fibre drawing, polymer coating optimisation and fibre characterisation. The project will involve a close interaction with the design and development teams to successfully transfer novel research ideas into manufacturing.
As Part Of Our Project Team, You Will
- Lead manufacturing processes necessary to produce microstructured/hollow preforms and optical fibres
- Provide a repair and fault-finding service, including planned maintenance of equipment and devices within the work environment
- Collaborate with equipment suppliers on process and equipment improvements
- Support the development and transfer of manufacturing processes
- Develop process control tools and identify trends and correlations
- Develop operating procedures and process control documentation
- Disseminate and present results to internal and external stakeholders
Essential Skills & Experience
- Substantial experience in manufacturing of optical components
- Knowledge of cleanroom working environment and equipment
- Excellent problem-solving ability, and substantial experience troubleshooting complex devices or systems
- A strong desire to learn and grow professionally
- Excellent teamwork and communication skills
Desirable Skills & Experience
- Practical knowledge of optical fibres and their properties
- Experience with specialty optical fibres, ideally hollow core fibres
- Experience in the use of a glass-working lathe and/or a fibre draw tower
- Knowledge of CAD and basic workshop tools
- Proficiency with basic optical test equipment
- Hands-on experience with optoelectronics lab devices and equipment (e.g. lasers, detectors, lens systems, OSAs, OTDRs, oscilloscopes)
- Experience with test and measurement lab automation and scripting experience in relevant environments (e.g. Python, LabVIEW, MATLAB)
What We Offer
- Hands-on training in the fabrication procedures used for our cutting-edge hollow core fibres
- A supportive team environment with colleagues committed to your growth and success
- Opportunities to work on high-impact research projects that can change our world with leading scientific and industrial organisations worldwide
This position will suit an applicant who aims to rapidly grow their knowledge, cultivate high-impact and valuable skills on the forefront of advanced optical technology, and achieve mastery in a range of cutting-edge fibre-optic fabrication techniques. With the growth in these skills, it is expected that the position will evolve into an increasingly independent role, so you should possess the ability to self-organise and plan your schedule of work to align with the larger team goals.
To informally discuss this position, please contact Francesco Poletti, fp@soton.ac.uk
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Further Details
- Job Description and Person Specification
We are committed to equality, diversity and inclusion and welcome applicants who support our mission of inclusivity.
The University is a signatory of the Technician Commitment and a partner affiliate of the National Technician Development Centre (NTDC). We are committed to supporting our technical staff and offer a wide range of opportunities including networking, mentoring, training, professional registration and career development. We really value all our technical staff and recognise the broad range of skills they have in support of education, research and enterprise activities. By joining you will be part of a bigger technical community, offering support and guidance.
Apply by 11.59 pm GMT on the closing date. For assistance contact Recruitment on +44(0)2380 592750 or recruitment@soton.ac.uk quoting the job number.
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Senior Research Technician employer: Cyber Security Academy Southampton
Contact Detail:
Cyber Security Academy Southampton Recruiting Team
StudySmarter Expert Advice 🤫
We think this is how you could land Senior Research Technician
✨Tip Number 1
Familiarise yourself with the latest advancements in hollow core fibre technology. Understanding the current trends and innovations in this field will not only help you during interviews but also demonstrate your genuine interest in the role.
✨Tip Number 2
Network with professionals in the optical fibre industry, especially those who have experience with cleanroom environments and optical components. Engaging with these individuals can provide valuable insights and potentially lead to referrals.
✨Tip Number 3
Prepare to discuss specific examples of your problem-solving skills and troubleshooting experiences. The role requires excellent problem-solving abilities, so having concrete examples ready will showcase your capability to handle complex systems.
✨Tip Number 4
Consider reaching out to Francesco Poletti for an informal chat about the position. This can give you a better understanding of the team dynamics and expectations, while also making a positive impression before the formal application.
We think you need these skills to ace Senior Research Technician
Some tips for your application 🫡
Tailor Your CV: Make sure your CV highlights relevant experience in optical component manufacturing and any specific skills mentioned in the job description, such as cleanroom experience or knowledge of optical fibres.
Craft a Compelling Cover Letter: Write a cover letter that not only outlines your qualifications but also demonstrates your enthusiasm for the role. Mention your desire to grow professionally and how you can contribute to the Hollow Core Fibre Research Group.
Showcase Problem-Solving Skills: In your application, provide examples of past experiences where you successfully solved complex problems or troubleshot devices. This will align with the essential skills required for the position.
Highlight Teamwork and Communication: Emphasise your teamwork and communication skills in your application. Provide examples of how you've collaborated with others in previous roles, especially in research or technical environments.
How to prepare for a job interview at Cyber Security Academy Southampton
✨Showcase Your Technical Expertise
Be prepared to discuss your substantial experience in manufacturing optical components. Highlight specific projects or challenges you've faced, particularly those involving hollow core fibres or cleanroom environments.
✨Demonstrate Problem-Solving Skills
Expect questions that assess your troubleshooting abilities. Prepare examples of complex devices or systems you've repaired or improved, and explain your thought process during these situations.
✨Emphasise Team Collaboration
Since the role involves close interaction with design and development teams, be ready to share experiences where you successfully collaborated with others. Discuss how you communicate effectively within a team setting.
✨Express Your Desire to Learn
The position is designed for someone eager to grow professionally. Convey your enthusiasm for mastering new techniques and technologies, and mention any relevant training or courses you've undertaken.
