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- Tasks: Join a team to develop next-gen photonic technologies and processes.
- Company: Seagate, a leader in data storage innovation.
- Benefits: Private healthcare, flexible working, gym access, and career development opportunities.
- Why this job: Be at the forefront of technology and make a real impact in the datasphere.
- Qualifications: PhD in materials science, physics, or optoelectronics with a passion for photonics.
- Other info: Dynamic workplace with diverse employee resource groups and community engagement.
The predicted salary is between 30000 - 50000 £ per year.
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Graduate PHD Photonic Scientist
Location: Derry/Londonderry, GB
Posting Date: Aug 27, 2025
Job ID: 11482
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.
As an industry leader, Seagate provides unique career opportunities to be part of today’s major technology shifts. They can be found around the globe and on our website.
We are excited to announce that we are recruiting photonic scientists to fill roles in the areas of photonics integration, materials technology, plasmonics and test development to help deliver our next generation photonic technologies. You will work as part of an established team reporting to the R&D Manager defining and delivering future photonic technologies and products. If you’re excited by new technologies, are naturally creative and passionate about seeing ideas come to life then this is the ideal research role for you.
About the role – you will:
Working as a process engineer, leveraging our high-tech clean room fabrication facility using the most advanced manufacturing processes and design tools you’ll be responsible for the development of new and improved processes in the areas of plasmonics, photonics integration, optical test & thin-film wafer processing. You will collaborate with an established team, driving groundbreaking projects and leveraging Seagate’s unique materials and HAMR technologies to push the boundaries of photonics technology.
You will:
- Develop & optimize wafer fabrication processes for photonic integrated devices, structures & systems.
- Conduct process characterization, troubleshooting, and continuous improvement activities.
- Develop process methods in the area of photolithography, deposition, dry and wet etch techniques.
- Implement and maintain process control methodologies to ensure high yield and reliability.
- Project plan and collaborate with adjacent teams and internal customers.
- Stay current with advancements in wafer processing technologies and industry best practices.
- Document and present process development results and findings.
About you:
If you have already applied for this role within the past 6 months, there is no requirement for you to apply again.
- Familiar with Si, III-V semiconductor processing technologies and equipment
- Knowledgeable in thin film materials characterization, test methods and techniques.
- Familiar with opto-electronics, plasmonics and integrated photonic devices and systems.
- Familiar with electrical test methods and instrumentation.
- A good communicator with excellent presentation and written skills.
- A dedicated team player who works effectively in a cross-functional team environment.
Your experience includes:
- In the final year or recently graduated from a PhD degree program.
- Relevant degree in materials science, physics, optoelectronics.
- Strong background in photonic, semiconductor or laser device fabrication.
- Strong analytical skills, knowledge in 6 Sigma tools; R, JMP or similar statistical analysis software.
- Experience with laser integration and semiconductor process development is a plus.
Completed applications should be submitted no later than midnight on Wednesday, 24th September 2025
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. To see all vacancies that Seagate has available, please sign up – Register your interest for career updates with our Talent Network and to be considered for future opportunities: Seagate Careers
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. All applications will be considered strictly on the basis of merit.
Seagate will provide reasonable accommodation with the application process upon request as required to comply with applicable laws. If you need assistance or accommodation due to a disability, you may contact us at accommodations@seagate.com.
All Seagate jobs will remain open for a minimum of seven days.
For information on how Seagate collects and uses your personal information during the application process, please review the Applicant Privacy Statement.
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 1,400 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. Onsite gym
- 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
About Us
With more than four decades of storage innovation, Seagate empowers humanity to thrive in the data age and helps people and businesses navigate the ever-expanding data landscape.
We craft precision-engineered, cutting-edge solutions that help the world store and manage exponential data growth.
Seagate is powered by our talented and passionate workforce of 29,000 employees across the globe who embody our core values: integrity, innovation, and inclusion. Striving towards excellence every single day, we show up with these values for our customers, business partners, shareholders, and communities alike.
Join us and get inspired to make a difference in the datasphere!
Seagate is an equal opportunity employer. All qualified applicants will receive consideration for employment without regard to age, race, color, ancestry, national origin, citizenship status, physical or mental disability, genetic information, marital status, sex (which includes pregnancy, childbirth, breastfeeding, or related medical conditions), gender, gender identity, gender expression, sexual orientation, religion, military and veteran status, or other status protected by applicable law. We will consider for employment qualified applicants with arrest and conviction records. EEO Know Your Rights Poster
Seagate will provide reasonable accommodation with the application process upon request as required to comply with applicable laws. If you need assistance or accommodation due to a disability, you may contact us at accommodations@seagate.com.
All Seagate jobs will remain open for a minimum of seven days.
For information on how Seagate collects and uses your personal information during the application process, please review the Applicant Privacy Statement.
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Graduate PHD Photonic Scientist employer: Seagate Technology
Contact Detail:
Seagate Technology Recruiting Team
StudySmarter Expert Advice 🤫
We think this is how you could land Graduate PHD Photonic Scientist
✨Tip Number 1
Network like a pro! Reach out to current employees at Seagate through LinkedIn or professional groups. 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 projects in photonics. Show us your passion for innovation and how you can contribute to shaping the future of storage.
✨Tip Number 3
Practice your presentation skills! You’ll need to communicate your ideas clearly, so rehearse explaining complex concepts in simple terms. We love good communicators!
✨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!
We think you need these skills to ace Graduate PHD Photonic Scientist
Some tips for your application 🫡
Tailor Your CV: Make sure your CV is tailored to the Graduate PHD Photonic Scientist role. Highlight your relevant experience in photonics, semiconductor processing, and any specific projects that align with what Seagate is looking for.
Craft a Compelling Cover Letter: Your cover letter should tell your story! Explain why you're passionate about photonics and how your background makes you a great fit for the team at Seagate. Don’t forget to mention any innovative ideas you have!
Showcase Your Skills: Be sure to showcase your analytical skills and familiarity with tools like 6 Sigma or statistical analysis software. Mention any hands-on experience you have with photolithography or optical testing methods.
Apply Through Our Website: We encourage you to apply through our website for the best chance of being noticed. It’s super easy, and you’ll be able to keep track of your application status directly!
How to prepare for a job interview at Seagate Technology
✨Know Your Photonics
Make sure you brush up on your knowledge of photonics integration, plasmonics, and optical test methods. Be ready to discuss how your academic background and any projects you've worked on relate to these areas. This will show that you're not just a candidate but someone who understands the field deeply.
✨Showcase Your Problem-Solving Skills
Prepare to share specific examples of how you've tackled challenges in your previous research or projects. Use the STAR method (Situation, Task, Action, Result) to structure your answers. This will demonstrate your analytical skills and ability to troubleshoot, which are crucial for a role in process engineering.
✨Communicate Clearly
Since excellent communication is key, practice explaining complex concepts in simple terms. You might be asked to present your findings or ideas during the interview, so being able to articulate your thoughts clearly will set you apart from other candidates.
✨Be a Team Player
Seagate values collaboration, so be prepared to discuss your experience working in cross-functional teams. Highlight instances where you contributed to team success and how you can bring that collaborative spirit to their R&D environment.
