At a Glance
- Tasks: Conduct groundbreaking research in digital olfactory sensing and communications.
- Company: Join the prestigious King's College London, a top global university.
- Benefits: Enjoy professional development days, competitive salary, and a collaborative environment.
- Other info: Work in a dynamic team at the Centre for Telecommunications Research.
- Why this job: Be part of an innovative project shaping the future of scent technology.
- Qualifications: PhD in smell sensing or related field; experience with olfactory sensors preferred.
The predicted salary is between 34380 - 42020 £ per year.
Applications are invited for one position as research associate in digital olfactory sensing and communications.
The positions are full-time at King's College London, and fixed term for 24 months (2 years).
The post is due to start on 1st of Oct. 2026 or shortly after.
The role will be part of a £1.3 million ERC fellowship of Prof.
Deng on "Real-time Chemical signal processing for microfluidic molecular communications: design, theory, prototype, and application (REACTION)" with description in this link, contributing to the vision of Internet of Smells.
In this role, you are expected conduct interdisciplinary research at the intersection of sensor technologies, artificial intelligence, chemistry, electronics, and communication systems to enable the digital capture, transmission, and reproduction of odors.
You will be a conscientious, innovative scientist who has successfully completed a Ph D (or equivalent) in the topics related to smell sensing and detection.
Experience in olfactory sensors, including but not limited to gas chromatography-mass spectrometry, optical based sensors, ion mobility spectrometers, metal-oxide sensors, are preferred.
At King's, you will join a research-leading and multi-disciplinary team, including Prof.
Yansha Deng.
You will be based at the Centre for Telecommunications Research (CTR) at the Department of Engineering.
The successful candidate will also be expected to collaborate with the project partners and members of the research group.
This is a full time post (35 hours per week), and you will be offered a fixed term contract until Nov. 30th 2028.
Research staff at King's are entitled to at least 10 days per year (pro-rata) for professional development.
This entitlement, from the , applies to Postdocs, Research Assistants, Research and Teaching Technicians, Teaching Fellows and AEP equivalent up to and including grade 7.
Visit the for more information.
About you
The roles will involve carrying out research in digital olfactory sensing and communications, with the objective of developing new digital olfactory devices with the capability of gas-phase scent profile detection, transmission, and recreation for the Internet of Smells.
The successful candidate will be able to develop skills in the exciting and emerging field of digital olfactory sensing and airborne molecular communications.
The role may involve irregular hours, with intense periods of activity leading up to deadlines such as publications or deliverable milestones.
The key challenges on which the applicant will focus can be briefly defined as the following:
- Work closely with the Principal Investigators (PIs) to ensure that the aims and objectives of the project are achieved in a timely and effective way.
- Write papers for publication in journals and for presentation at conferences, seminars and other research meetings.
- Participate in relevant events within the institution or externally, in order to build contacts to facilitate the exchange of information and advance thinking.
- Support events, conferences and workshops run by the project to develop the project outputs and research agenda.
- Contribute to the development of further research proposals.
To be successful in this role, we are looking for candidates to have the following skills and experience:
Essential criteria Education/qualification and training
- 1. BSc in related area.
- 2.
Ph D awarded in relevant topics of smell sensing and detection or related area (or near completion).
Please note that this is a Ph D level role but candidates who have submitted their thesis and are awaiting the award of their Ph Ds will be considered.
Should the successful candidate be awaiting the award of the Ph D, the appointment will be made at Grade 5, spinal point 30 with the title of Research Assistant until confirmation of the award of the Ph Ds has been received.
Upon confirmation of the award of the Ph D, the job title will become Research Associate and the salary will increase to Grade 6, spine point 32.
- 3. Ability to demonstrate a record of peer-reviewed high-quality journal publications.
- 4. Publications demonstrating his/her experience in digital olfactory sensing and communications.
- 5. Knowledge in smell detection and real-time sensing.
- 6. Experimental experience in digital olfactory sensors.
- Personal characteristics/other requirements
- 7. Ability to attend regular meetings with project partners, and work collaboratively and independently.
- 8. Good interpersonal / team working skills.
Desirable criteria
- 1. Knowledge of airborne molecular detection and communication system.
- 2. Experience in basic AI algorithms.
- 3. Strong background in interdisciplinary research, and collaborative innovation.
- King's College London
King's College London is a globally renowned university ranked among the top 40 institutions worldwide in the QS World University Rankings 2025.
The Centre for Telecommunication Research (CTR) at the Faculty of Natural, Mathematical & Engineering Sciences (NMES) has a long history of performing world-class research in wireless communication research.
- CTR was established in 1994, as one of the first centre of excellence for telecom in the UK.
- CTR has made extensive research contribution and portfolio in 2G, 3G, 4G, 5G and 6G mobile communications, networking, and applications.
- Scientific contribution as well as standard, innovation and proof-of-concept.
- Active collaboration with national and international industry.
- Some of the first-in-the-world concept 5G demonstrations., At King's, we believe that the diversity of our community and a culture that is welcoming, open, inclusive and collaborative, are great strengths of the university.
- #J-18808-Ljbffr
research associate in digital olfactory sensing and communications employer: Kings College London
At King's College London, we pride ourselves on being an exceptional employer that fosters a collaborative and innovative work culture. As a Senior Engineering Education Technician, you will have the opportunity to contribute to a vibrant academic environment while enjoying comprehensive benefits and professional development opportunities that support your growth. Located in the heart of London, our Strand Campus offers a dynamic setting where you can make a meaningful impact on students' educational journeys.
StudySmarter Expert Advice🤫
We think this is how you could land research associate in digital olfactory sensing and communications
✨Get Involved in Research Communities
Dive headfirst into the scientific research world by joining relevant communities and forums. Engage in discussions, share your insights, and even attend conferences or seminars in your field. This not only boosts your visibility but can also lead to potential job opportunities—don't forget to connect with like-minded folks!
✨Show Off Your Research Projects
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✨Utilise Professional Networks
Networking is key in scientific research. Join professional bodies or organisations related to your field. They often have job boards and resources tailored for job seekers. Make connections with professionals who may know about openings or can give you tips on landing a full-time position.
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We think you need these skills to ace research associate in digital olfactory sensing and communications
Some tips for your application 🫡
Highlight Your Research Experience:When applying for a full-time role in scientific research, make sure to emphasise your research experience prominently in your CV. Share specific projects you’ve worked on, the methodologies you used, and any significant findings. If you’ve published papers or presented at conferences, definitely include that too – it shows you’re on it in the academic world!
Tailor Your Cover Letter to the Research Area:Your cover letter should reflect your passion for the specific area of research at Kings College London. Mention relevant experiences that align with the organisation’s goals or projects. This shows that you’ve done your homework and are genuinely interested in the position – plus, it helps us see how you’d fit into the team dynamics.
Showcase Your Data Analysis Skills:In scientific research, data analysis skills are a big deal! Make sure to detail any relevant analytical tools or software you’re familiar with, like R, Python, or statistical packages. Employers are keen to know you can handle the data-heavy elements of the role, so add specific examples where you’ve used these skills effectively.
Discuss Your Future Research Goals:In your motivation section, it’s a great idea to talk about your future research goals and how they align with the work being done at Kings College London. This shows that you’re not just looking for any job, but rather a chance to contribute meaningfully to the field. We love to see applicants who are forward-thinking and enthusiastic about their research journey!
How to prepare for a job interview at Kings College London
✨Showcase Your Research Skills
In scientific research, it’s crucial to demonstrate your ability to design and conduct experiments. Come armed with examples of past projects where you've developed hypotheses, collected data, and analysed results. Be ready to discuss any specific methodologies or tools you’ve used, like PCR techniques or statistical software.
✨Prepare for Technical Questions
Expect some technical questions specific to your field. Make sure you're up to speed with recent advancements in scientific research related to the role at Kings College London. Brush up on concepts relevant to their projects and be prepared to discuss how you would approach a specific research problem or challenge they might face.
✨Know Your Publications
If you've authored or co-authored any papers, be prepared to discuss them! Highlighting your contributions to published research can really set you apart. It shows not only your expertise but also your ability to communicate complex ideas clearly, which is key in scientific research roles.
✨Exhibit Your Team Spirit
In full-time roles, collaboration is often at the heart of scientific research. Prepare examples that show how you've successfully worked in teams, dealt with conflicts, or contributed to group projects. We want to know how you can work effectively with the team at Kings College London to drive research projects forward.