At a Glance
- Tasks: Conduct cutting-edge research in photonic metamaterials and ultrafast spectroscopy.
- Company: Join a collaboration between top UK universities focused on innovative materials science.
- Benefits: Enjoy a competitive salary, 41 days off, and dedicated career support.
- Other info: Full-time role with opportunities for professional growth and networking.
- Why this job: Make a real impact in a diverse and inclusive research environment.
- Qualifications: Experience in experimental spectroscopy and project management is essential.
The predicted salary is between 35000 - 45000 £ per year.
The post arises from a collaboration funded by the EPSRC between the University of Exeter, King's College London, and Imperial College London with the objective of advancing our understanding of materials that vary in time. The successful applicant will be expected to work with Professor Rupert Oulton and Professor Riccardo Sapienza in London and our experimental collaborators to develop experiments in the field of metamaterials that vary in space and time.
What you would be doing:
- The successful applicant will be expected to carry out research programmes in photonic metamaterials, nanophotonics, ultrafast spectroscopy and structured light generation.
- Undertake project management and/or supervise multi-disciplinary teams.
- Submit publications to refereed journals and attract external research funding.
What we are looking for:
- Develop ultrafast optical experiments to study optical metamaterials.
- Structure light in space and time using spatial light modulators and digital micromirrors.
- Characterisation of time-varying photonic metamaterials to identify and develop suitable techniques and apparatus for the collection and analysis of data.
- Assist with the analysis of data and ensure the validity and reliability of data at all times.
- Maintain accurate and complete records of all findings.
- Assist with the writing of reports to research sponsors and present findings to colleagues.
- Provide advice to other staff and students and assist with the publication of findings.
- Attend relevant workshops and conferences as necessary.
- Develop contacts within the College and the wider community.
- Promote the reputation of the Group, the Department and the College.
What we can offer you:
- The opportunity to continue your career at a world‑leading institution and be part of our mission to continue science for humanity.
- Gain access to Imperial’s sector‑leading dedicated career support for researchers as well as opportunities for promotion and progression.
- As a member of research staff, you have 10 development days to use to develop your skills and explore your career prospects.
- Sector‑leading salary and remuneration package (including 41 days off a year and generous pension schemes).
- Be part of a diverse, inclusive and collaborative work culture with various staff networks and resources to support your personal and professional wellbeing.
This is a full‑time post for a fixed‑term contract for 24 months. Candidates who have not yet been officially awarded their PhD will be appointed as Research Assistant. Please note that job descriptions are not exhaustive, and you may be asked to take on additional duties that align with the key responsibilities mentioned above.
Research Assistant or Associate in London employer: SONICOM
Join a world-leading institution where you can advance your career in cutting-edge research on photonic metamaterials. With access to dedicated career support, generous leave, and a collaborative work culture, you'll thrive in an environment that values diversity and personal growth. This role offers the unique opportunity to contribute to impactful scientific advancements while enjoying a supportive community in the heart of London.
StudySmarter Expert Advice🤫
We think this is how you could land Research Assistant or Associate in London
✨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 SONICOM, 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 SONICOM. 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 Research Assistant or Associate in London
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 SONICOM. 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 SONICOM. 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 SONICOM
✨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 SONICOM. 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 SONICOM to drive research projects forward.
