At a Glance
- Tasks: Join a dynamic team to research MASER-enabled RF and antenna systems for innovative communication.
- Company: Northumbria University, a top-ranked research institution with a vibrant community.
- Benefits: Competitive salary, flexible working, generous holidays, and excellent career development opportunities.
- Other info: Join a diverse and inclusive environment with strong academic and industrial partnerships.
- Why this job: Make a real impact in cutting-edge microwave communication research while collaborating with experts.
- Qualifications: PhD in Electrical Engineering or Physics with expertise in RF and microwave engineering.
The predicted salary is between 41064 - 46049 ÂŁ per year.
Working as part of multi‑disciplinary teams, you will support the Principal Investigator in delivering research on MASER‑enabled RF, antenna, and free‑space microwave communication systems. You will design, model, and experimentally validate RF front‑ends, antenna systems, and downstream modulation and transmission architectures interfacing with a room‑temperature solid‑state MASER. Responsibilities include system‑level integration, free‑space communication measurements under varying environmental conditions, detailed performance analysis, and contributing to technical reports and high‑quality publications. You will work collaboratively with colleagues within the Photonics Technology Group, as well as wider academic and industrial partners.
This role is fixed term from 1 July 2026 to 30 June 2027 (12 months), with potential for extension depending on performance and the availability of further funding.
ABOUT THE TEAM
This research project is based within the School of Engineering, Physics and Mathematics at Northumbria University, working under the supervision of Dr Juna Sathian, Associate Professor and an expert in MASER and laser technologies. You will join the MASER research group within the Photonics Technology Group, a team conducting internationally recognised work in room‑temperature MASER‑enabled microwave communication systems, with recent outputs published in high‑impact journals. You will work closely with the existing MASER team, including current PhD researchers and Postdoctoral Research Associates, contributing to an active and collaborative research environment. The group maintains strong academic and industrial partnerships and offers excellent opportunities for technical development and career progression.
ABOUT YOU
Applicants should hold a PhD in Electrical and Electronic Engineering, Physics, or a related discipline, and have demonstrable specialist expertise in RF and microwave engineering, antenna design and testing, free‑space microwave communication, and the analysis and reporting of experimental results.
If you would like an informal discussion about the role, please contact Dr Juna Sathian.
To apply for this vacancy please click 'Apply Now'. Your application should include a covering letter and a CV.
ABOUT US
Join Northumbria University, a research-intensive institution unlocking potential and changing lives locally and globally. Named Times Higher Education's University of the Year in 2022 and Modern University of the Year in 2025, we rank top 25 in the UK for research power. With over 37,000 students from over 140 countries, we offer world-leading research, award-winning partnerships, and an outstanding student experience. We empower our exceptional staff, promoting a positive work-life balance and offering great benefits, including excellent pension schemes, flexible working, generous holiday entitlement and more.
Our Northumbria Values, co-created by our team, define who we are: Academic Excellence, Innovation, Inclusivity, Collaboration, and Ambition. Our Behaviours shape our work culture: We listen and learn, support one another, respect everyone, trust each other, and are bold.
Based in Newcastle upon Tyne and London, we are an on-campus organisation and offer flexible hours and location where the role allows. We pride ourselves on diversity and inclusivity, holding numerous awards for gender and race equality, disability confidence, and research excellence. We also hold the HR Excellence in Research award for implementing the concordat supporting the career Development of Researchers and are members of the Euraxess initiative to deliver information and support to professional researchers. The University has implemented a range of flexible working arrangements, and we are happy to explore candidate requirements as part of the recruitment process.
Apply now and join a community committed to transforming society and the economy.
Postdoctoral Research Associate in RF and Antenna Systems for MASER-based Communications - Newcastle upon Tyne in Thornley employer: Northumbria University Newcastle
Contact Detail:
Northumbria University Newcastle Recruiting Team
StudySmarter Expert Advice 🤫
We think this is how you could land Postdoctoral Research Associate in RF and Antenna Systems for MASER-based Communications - Newcastle upon Tyne in Thornley
✨Tip Number 1
Network like a pro! Reach out to current or former employees at Northumbria University, especially those in the Photonics Technology Group. A friendly chat can give you insider info and maybe even a referral!
✨Tip Number 2
Prepare for the interview by brushing up on your RF and microwave engineering knowledge. Be ready to discuss your past projects and how they relate to MASER technology. Show us your passion for the field!
✨Tip Number 3
Don’t just focus on technical skills; highlight your teamwork experience too. This role is all about collaboration, so share examples of how you've worked effectively in multi-disciplinary teams.
✨Tip Number 4
Apply through our website! It’s the best way to ensure your application gets seen. Plus, it shows you’re serious about joining our innovative team at Northumbria University.
We think you need these skills to ace Postdoctoral Research Associate in RF and Antenna Systems for MASER-based Communications - Newcastle upon Tyne in Thornley
Some tips for your application 🫡
Craft a Compelling Cover Letter: Your cover letter is your chance to shine! Make sure to highlight your relevant experience in RF and microwave engineering, and how it aligns with the MASER project. We want to see your passion for the field and how you can contribute to our team.
Tailor Your CV: Don’t just send a generic CV! Tailor it to showcase your skills in antenna design and testing, as well as any collaborative projects you've been part of. We love seeing how your background fits with our research goals.
Showcase Your Research Impact: When detailing your previous work, focus on the impact of your research. Mention any publications or presentations, especially those related to free-space microwave communication. We’re keen on candidates who can contribute to high-quality publications!
Apply Through Our Website: Make sure to apply through our website by clicking 'Apply Now'. It’s the easiest way for us to receive your application and ensures you don’t miss out on any important updates from our team!
How to prepare for a job interview at Northumbria University Newcastle
✨Know Your Stuff
Make sure you brush up on your knowledge of RF and microwave engineering, antenna design, and MASER technologies. Be prepared to discuss your previous research and how it relates to the role. This will show that you're not just a good fit on paper but also in practice.
✨Show Your Collaborative Spirit
Since this role involves working with multi-disciplinary teams, highlight your experience in collaborative projects. Share examples of how you've successfully worked with others, especially in research settings, to demonstrate your ability to contribute to the team.
✨Prepare for Technical Questions
Expect some technical questions related to system-level integration and performance analysis. Practise explaining complex concepts in simple terms, as this will showcase your understanding and communication skills, which are crucial for contributing to technical reports and publications.
✨Ask Insightful Questions
At the end of the interview, have a few thoughtful questions ready about the research group or ongoing projects. This shows your genuine interest in the role and helps you assess if the environment aligns with your career goals.