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- Tasks: Design and test RF power amplifiers and active antenna arrays.
- Company: Join Heriot-Watt University’s leading microwave and antenna engineering group.
- Benefits: Enjoy 33 days of annual leave, competitive salary, and a collaborative work environment.
- Why this job: Make a real impact in cutting-edge RF and microwave research.
- Qualifications: Honours degree in Electrical Engineering or related fields required.
- Other info: Be part of a vibrant team driving innovation in wireless technology.
The predicted salary is between 31236 - 33002 £ per year.
Role: Research Assistant
Grade and Salary: Grade 6, £31,236.00- £33,002.00 per annum
FTE and working pattern: Part time, Fixed Term Contract for 18 Months
Holiday Entitlement: 33 days annual leave plus 9 buildings closed days (and Christmas Eve when it falls on a weekday)
Purpose of Role
The Research Assistant is expected to carry out power amplifier design and measurement, and integrated direct-to-cell active antenna array design. The start date is expected in Jan/Feb 2026. It will be carried out under the supervision of Dr Haijun Fan.
Key Duties & Responsibilities
- Develop RF circuits and microwave power amplifiers
- Conduct power amplifier testing and measurement
- Set up USRP platform for wireless end-to-end demonstration
- Carry out other general tasks involved in scientific research as analysis and interpretation of data
- Collaborate with partners within the project and others as appropriate
- Attend group and project meetings, communicating progress on a regular basis
- Deliver presentations to project collaborators and the wider research community
Essential & Desirable Criteria
- Honours degree in Electrical engineering, or other relevant subjects
- The ideal candidate will have a strong experimental background in one or more of the following fields: power amplifier, GaN, active antenna array, microwave engineering, and wireless communication
- Commitment to adopting principles of diversity, equity, and inclusion in the workplace
Desirable Previous Experience With One Or More Of The Following
- GaN power amplifier development
- Active antenna array development
- Wireless communication system demonstration with USRP and LabVIEW
- Capability to be self-directed and think innovatively
How To Apply
Applications can be submitted up to midnight (UK time) on Wednesday 11th February 2026. Please submit your CV & covering letter via the Heriot‑Watt online recruitment.
About The Team
The Institute of Signals, Sensors, and Systems (ISSS) at Heriot‑Watt University (HWU) hosts Scotland’s largest and most dynamic microwave and antenna engineering group. Internationally acclaimed for its cutting‑edge RF and microwave research, the group leads innovation in space and next‑generation wireless applications.
About Heriot‑Watt University
At Heriot‑Watt we are passionate about our values and look to them to connect our people globally and to help us collaborate and celebrate our success through working together.
Research Assistant in RF Power Amplifier in Kilmarnock employer: Heriot-Watt University
Contact Detail:
Heriot-Watt University Recruiting Team
StudySmarter Expert Advice 🤫
We think this is how you could land Research Assistant in RF Power Amplifier in Kilmarnock
✨Tip Number 1
Network like a pro! Reach out to current or former employees at Heriot-Watt University, especially in the Microwaves & Antenna Engineering Group. A friendly chat can give you insider info and maybe even a referral!
✨Tip Number 2
Prepare for your interview by brushing up on your RF circuits and microwave power amplifiers knowledge. We want to see your passion and expertise shine through, so practice explaining your projects and experiences clearly.
✨Tip Number 3
Show off your collaborative spirit! Be ready to discuss how you've worked in teams before and how you can contribute to the group dynamic at Heriot-Watt. We love candidates who can communicate and work well with others.
✨Tip Number 4
Don’t forget to apply through our website! It’s the best way to ensure your application gets seen. Plus, make sure your CV and cover letter highlight your relevant skills and enthusiasm for the role.
We think you need these skills to ace Research Assistant in RF Power Amplifier in Kilmarnock
Some tips for your application 🫡
Craft a Compelling Cover Letter: Your cover letter is your chance to shine! Make sure to explain why you're excited about the Research Assistant role and how your background aligns with the project. Highlight your relevant experience in RF circuits or power amplifiers to grab our attention.
Tailor Your CV: Don’t just send a generic CV! Tailor it to showcase your skills and experiences that are most relevant to the job. We want to see how you meet the essential criteria, so make it easy for us to spot those connections.
Show Your Team Spirit: Since collaboration is key in our group, mention any past experiences where you worked well in a team. We love candidates who can communicate effectively and contribute positively to a team environment!
Apply Through Our Website: Make sure to submit your application through the Heriot-Watt online recruitment portal. It’s the easiest way for us to receive your CV and cover letter, and we can’t wait to see what you bring to the table!
How to prepare for a job interview at Heriot-Watt University
✨Know Your Stuff
Make sure you brush up on your knowledge of RF circuits, power amplifiers, and active antenna arrays. Be ready to discuss your previous experience in these areas and how it relates to the role. This will show that you're not just interested but also knowledgeable about the field.
✨Tailor Your Application
When writing your CV and cover letter, highlight specific experiences that align with the job description. Mention any relevant projects or research you've done, especially those involving GaN or wireless communication systems. This personal touch can make a big difference!
✨Practice Makes Perfect
Conduct mock interviews with friends or mentors to get comfortable discussing your skills and experiences. Focus on articulating your thought process when solving technical problems, as this is likely to come up during the interview.
✨Show Your Team Spirit
Since collaboration is key in this role, be prepared to discuss how you've worked effectively in teams before. Share examples of how you communicated progress in past projects and how you contributed to group success. This will demonstrate your ability to fit into their team environment.
