At a Glance
- Tasks: Join our R&D team to innovate next-gen data storage technologies and tackle exciting challenges.
- Company: Seagate, a global leader in data storage solutions, shaping the future of technology.
- Benefits: Enjoy private healthcare, flexible working, gym access, and professional development opportunities.
- Other info: Dynamic workplace with diverse employee groups and community engagement opportunities.
- Why this job: Make a real impact in tech by developing cutting-edge HAMR technologies with a collaborative team.
- Qualifications: PhD in Materials Science, Physics, or related field; strong analytical and communication skills.
The predicted salary is between 28000 - 35000 £ per year.
About our group: Seagate is a global leader in data storage solutions. We strive to create precision-engineered data storage technologies that deliver superior capacity, speed, safety, and performance. Seagate is where the future is read and written, with continuous innovation proving that a hard drive is not “just” a hard drive. Find out how we are shaping a new era of storage as we craft the datasphere.
We are recruiting Graduate Research and Development Scientists to support the next generation of Heat Assisted Magnetic Recording (HAMR) technologies. Roles span photonics integration, materials technology, plasmonics, and test development. You will join an established R&D team, reporting to the R&D Manager, and contribute directly to defining and delivering future HAMR products.
About the role - you will:
- Leverage our advanced cleanroom facilities and manufacturing capabilities to develop and integrate HAMR, thin film, and wafer process technologies into new products, delivering against critical performance and reliability requirements.
- Fabricate and characterise next generation HAMR transducers.
- Perform process characterization, troubleshooting, and continuous improvement.
- Develop process methods across photolithography, deposition, and dry/wet etch.
- Develop optical and electrical test capabilities for magnetic recording devices.
- Plan projects and collaborate with cross functional teams and internal customers.
- Stay current with advances in wafer processing and industry best practices.
- Document and clearly present technical results and findings.
About you:
- You are familiar with Si and III V semiconductor processing technologies and equipment.
- You are knowledgeable in thin film materials characterization and test techniques.
- You are familiar with optoelectronics, plasmonics, and integrated photonic devices.
- You are comfortable with electrical test methods and instrumentation.
- You are a strong communicator with excellent written and presentation skills.
- You are a collaborative team player who thrives in a cross functional environment.
Your experience includes:
- Recently completed or are in the final year of a PhD program.
- A relevant degree in Materials Science, Physics, Optoelectronics, or similar.
- A strong background in photonic, semiconductor, or laser device fabrication.
- Strong analytical skills, including experience with Six Sigma tools and R, JMP, or similar software.
- Experience with laser integration and semiconductor process development (desirable).
Completed applications should be submitted no later than midnight on Monday, 1st June 2026. This is a Full-Time position working 39 hours per week.
Please demonstrate on your Cover Letter or CV how you meet the criteria set out in the job description identified above. Testing may be used as part of the selection process.
At Seagate we are committed to building a diverse, inclusive and authentic workplace. Seagate Technology is committed to equal opportunity in employment and welcomes applications from all sections of the community irrespective of sex, marital status, religious affiliation, age, disability or ethnic origin.
Location: Springtown, Derry / Londonderry, Northern Ireland
Our Springtown site is Derry/Londonderry’s largest manufacturer, we’re proud that Seagate is a flexible and inclusive place to work. We have more than 1,550 employees spanning research and development, manufacturing, and many other functions.
Here at work, you can grab breakfast, lunch, dinner and snacks at our subsidized on-site cafe. Looking for an active break from your workday? We’ve got you covered. Take a group or individual exercise class during lunch or after work at our on-site gym.
Network with your colleagues through the Young Professionals Network, Women’s Leadership Group, the Carers Café (for caregivers of individuals with disabilities), Volunteer in the community with our support! Join our creative network, which includes a choir, foreign language classes and even a cookery class!
Join our Employee Resource Groups (ERG), a voluntary, employee-led community built on a shared diversity identity and/or an appreciation of that identity, open to ALL current employees at Seagate!
See list below of many of our Springtown Company Benefits:
- Health – Private healthcare, for employees and dependents, Company sick pay and medical leave, Occupational healthcare service, Employee assistance programmes, Group income protection and On-site gym/ exercise classes / personal trainer.
- Work Life Balance – Annual leave, Part-time working, Enhanced maternity pay, Enhanced paternity pay, Bereavement leave.
- Finance – Pension – employer contributory scheme, Life assurance, Employee stock purchase plan, Competitive base pay, Company bonus scheme, Reward and recognition, Perks at work discount programmes, Pay for civil / jury duty.
- Career – Degree / non degree assistance Externally accredited training and development opportunities, Service awards, LinkedIn learning, Learning & development programmes.
Location: Springtown, United Kingdom Travel: None
Graduate PhD Research and Development Scientist employer: Our Group
Seagate is an exceptional employer, offering a dynamic and inclusive work environment at our Springtown site in Derry/Londonderry, where innovation thrives. With a strong focus on employee well-being, we provide comprehensive benefits including private healthcare, flexible working arrangements, and extensive career development opportunities, ensuring that our Graduate PhD Research and Development Scientists can grow and excel in their roles while contributing to cutting-edge technology advancements.
StudySmarter Expert Advice🤫
We think this is how you could land Graduate PhD Research and Development Scientist
✨Tip Number 1
Network like a pro! Reach out to current employees at Seagate on LinkedIn or through your university connections. A friendly chat can give you insider info and maybe even a referral!
✨Tip Number 2
Prepare for the interview by diving deep into Seagate's latest innovations in HAMR technology. Show them you’re not just interested in the role, but also passionate about their mission in data storage.
✨Tip Number 3
Practice your presentation skills! You’ll need to clearly communicate your technical findings, so get comfortable explaining complex ideas in simple terms. Maybe even do a mock presentation with friends.
✨Tip Number 4
Don’t forget to apply through our website! It’s the best way to ensure your application gets seen. Plus, keep an eye on our Talent Network for future opportunities that might pop up!
We think you need these skills to ace Graduate PhD Research and Development Scientist
Some tips for your application 🫡
Tailor Your CV:Make sure your CV is tailored to the role of Graduate PhD Research and Development Scientist. Highlight your relevant experience in semiconductor processing, thin film materials, and any projects that showcase your skills in photonics and optoelectronics.
Craft a Compelling Cover Letter:Your cover letter should tell us why you're the perfect fit for this role. Use it to connect your academic background and research experience directly to the responsibilities outlined in the job description. Show us your passion for innovation in data storage!
Showcase Your Communication Skills:Since strong communication is key, make sure your written application is clear and concise. Use bullet points where necessary and avoid jargon unless it's relevant. We want to see how well you can present technical information!
Apply Through Our Website:Don’t forget to apply through our website! It’s the best way to ensure your application gets to us directly. Plus, you can explore other opportunities while you’re there. We can’t wait to see what you bring to the table!
How to prepare for a job interview at Our Group
✨Know Your Stuff
Make sure you brush up on your knowledge of semiconductor processing technologies and thin film materials. Be ready to discuss your experience with photonics integration and any relevant projects you've worked on during your PhD. This will show that you're not just familiar with the theory but can also apply it practically.
✨Showcase Your Skills
Prepare to highlight your analytical skills, especially if you've used Six Sigma tools or software like R or JMP. Bring examples of how you've applied these skills in past projects, particularly in process characterisation or troubleshooting. This will demonstrate your ability to contribute to Seagate's continuous improvement efforts.
✨Communicate Clearly
As a strong communicator, you'll need to present your technical results effectively. Practice explaining complex concepts in simple terms, as you may have to collaborate with cross-functional teams. Consider preparing a brief presentation on a past project to showcase your communication skills during the interview.
✨Be a Team Player
Seagate values collaboration, so be prepared to discuss how you've worked in teams during your research. Share specific examples of how you contributed to group projects and how you handle differing opinions. This will help illustrate that you're not just a brilliant scientist but also a great colleague.
