At a Glance
- Tasks: Design and fabricate cutting-edge semiconductor and quantum devices while conducting exciting experimental studies.
- Company: Join the University of Manchester's dynamic research team in Electrical and Electronic Engineering.
- Benefits: Enjoy 29 days annual leave, generous pension contributions, and access to world-class research facilities.
- Other info: Inclusive environment with excellent professional development opportunities.
- Why this job: Make a real impact in advanced device research and collaborate with top universities.
- Qualifications: PhD (or near completion) in relevant fields and strong experience in semiconductor device fabrication.
The predicted salary is between 30000 - 40000 £ per year.
We are seeking a motivated and collaborative individual to join our team as a research associate in semiconductor device manufacture and characterisation. This role offers an exciting opportunity to contribute to cutting‑edge research within the Department of Electrical and Electronic Engineering and the Photon Science Institute at the University of Manchester. You will work in a dynamic and inclusive research environment, contributing to the EPSRC‑funded Materials Engineering for Advanced Devices (MEAD) programme grant, a major collaboration between the University of Manchester, Imperial College London and the University of Leeds. This is a full‑time, fixed‑term post for 36 months from 1 September 2026.
Responsibilities
- Designing, simulating and fabricating semiconductor and quantum devices
- Developing and delivering experimental studies and measurement protocols for device characterisation
- Using advanced cryogenic, magnetic field, photonic and electronic characterisation facilities
- Collaborating with academic partners within the MEAD programme and externally to deliver research outcomes
- Disseminating research through high‑quality publications, reports and conference presentations
About You
We welcome candidates who bring diverse perspectives, experiences, and approaches to their work. You should demonstrate:
Essential Criteria
- A PhD (or close to completion) in Physics, Materials Science, Electrical/Electronic Engineering or a closely related discipline
- Strong experience in the design and fabrication of semiconductor or quantum devices
- Experience using cryogenic and magnetic‑field‑based characterisation techniques
- Ability to analyse, interpret and communicate complex experimental data
- Excellent communication, organisational and team‑working skills
Desirable Criteria
- Experience with focused ion beam technologies or advanced semiconductor processing
- Experience with photonic or microwave characterisation techniques
- Experience using modelling and simulation tools (COMSOL, MATLAB, LabVIEW, Python)
- Experience mentoring students or early‑career researchers
Benefits
- Generous employer pension contribution
- 29 days annual leave plus bank holidays, along with Christmas closure
- Access to world‑class research facilities and extensive professional development support
Enquiries About the Role and Interviews
Name: Professor Richard Curry
Email Address: richard.curry@manchester.ac.uk
General Enquiries and Administrative Support
Email: recruitmentservices.people@manchester.ac.uk
Technical and Job Portal Support
https://jobseekersupport.jobtrain.co.uk/support/home
Applications close at midnight on the closing date.
Research Associate in Semiconductor Device Manufacture and Characterisation in Manchester employer: The University of Manchester
The University of Manchester is an exceptional employer, offering a vibrant and inclusive research environment that fosters collaboration and innovation. As a Research Associate in Semiconductor Device Manufacture and Characterisation, you will benefit from access to world-class facilities, generous annual leave, and a strong commitment to professional development, making it an ideal place for those seeking meaningful contributions to cutting-edge research.
Contact Details:
The University of Manchester Recruitment Team
StudySmarter Expert Advice🤫
We think this is how you could land Research Associate in Semiconductor Device Manufacture and Characterisation in Manchester
✨Get Involved in Research Communities
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We think you need these skills to ace Research Associate in Semiconductor Device Manufacture and Characterisation in Manchester
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 The University of Manchester. 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 The University of Manchester. 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 The University of Manchester
✨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.
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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 The University of Manchester. 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.
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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 The University of Manchester to drive research projects forward.
