At a Glance
- Tasks: Develop cutting-edge 3D metamaterials and architected electromagnetic materials.
- Company: Join Queen Mary University of London, a leader in research excellence.
- Benefits: Enjoy competitive salary, 30 days leave, flexible working, and professional development.
- Other info: Collaborative environment with opportunities for career growth and mentorship.
- Why this job: Make a real impact in advanced materials research and innovation.
- Qualifications: PhD in relevant field and expertise in 3D metamaterials required.
The predicted salary is between 38419 - 49130 £ per year.
Postdoctoral Research Associate – Metamaterials and Architected Materials
The School of Electronic Engineering and Computer Science (EECS) at Queen Mary University of London is seeking a dedicated and qualified Postdoctoral Research Associate.
The postholder will focus on developing three-dimensional metamaterials and architected electromagnetic materials, with a strong research emphasis on advanced fabrication, characterisation, and scalable manufacturing strategies.
About the School and
Institution: The School of EECS is renowned for its world-leading research, ranking joint first in the UK for the impact of Computer Science research and second for Electronic Engineering research output (REF 2021).
Queen Mary University of London provides an inclusive, flexible, and supportive work environment committed to social justice, academic excellence, and diversity.
Employment
Benefits: Queen Mary University of London offers a competitive salary, institutional pension scheme, 30 days of annual leave per annum (pro-rata for fixed-term contracts), a season ticket loan scheme, flexible working arrangements, family-friendly policies, and access to comprehensive personal and professional development opportunities.
- Eligibility Criteria
- Holds a Ph D (or equivalent qualification) in Materials Science, Nanotechnology, Applied Physics, Electrical Engineering, or a closely related academic discipline.
- Proven expertise working with 3D metamaterials or architected materials.
- Demonstrated experience working in cleanroom environments.
- Required expertise/skills
- Hands-on expertise in nano- and micro-fabrication techniques, such as electron-beam lithography (EBL), focused ion beam (FIB), nanoimprint lithography, or micro/nanoscale 3D printing.
- Strong knowledge and practical capability in materials characterisation methods, including Scanning Electron Microscopy (SEM), Atomic Force Microscopy (AFM), and optical or electromagnetic measurement techniques.
- Deep understanding of the electromagnetic behaviour of structured materials and ability to design, optimize, and troubleshoot fabrication workflows from initial concept to device demonstration.
- Strong publication record in metamaterials, nanofabrication, or functional materials.
- Excellent analytical, problem-solving, and collaborative skills suited for multidisciplinary team environments.
- Desirable/Advantageous: Experience with low-loss dielectric or ferroelectric materials, scalable manufacturing approaches, multi-physics modelling, or mentoring junior researchers.
- Salary details: £38,419 to £49,130 per annum Full-Time, Fixed-Term Contract
- #J-18808-Ljbffr
Postdoctoral Research Associate – Metamaterials and Architected Materials employer: RFCSR
Imperial College London is an exceptional employer, offering a vibrant and collaborative work culture that fosters innovation and interdisciplinary research. As a Research Associate, you will have access to cutting-edge facilities and the opportunity for professional growth through mentorship and publishing your findings, all while contributing to impactful advancements in biomedical engineering within a prestigious academic environment.
StudySmarter Expert Advice🤫
We think this is how you could land Postdoctoral Research Associate – Metamaterials and Architected Materials
✨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
Have you worked on any cool research projects? Make it easy for potential employers to see your work by creating a portfolio or a personal website. This way, when you apply for roles like the one at RFCSR, you can point them to your projects and publications, showcasing your expertise directly.
✨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.
✨Keep Your Eyes on Openings & Apply Directly
Don’t just rely on job boards! Keep an eye on the careers section of the websites of companies like RFCSR. Apply directly through their website because sometimes they post jobs there before anywhere else. Plus, it shows your proactive approach!
We think you need these skills to ace Postdoctoral Research Associate – Metamaterials and Architected Materials
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 RFCSR. 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 RFCSR. 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 RFCSR
✨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 RFCSR. 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 RFCSR to drive research projects forward.