At a Glance
- Tasks: Design and fabricate cutting-edge quantum sensor chips for innovative ecosystem interventions.
- Company: Join the University of Sheffield, a leader in quantum technologies and research.
- Benefits: Enjoy 41+ days of annual leave, flexible working, and a generous pension scheme.
- Other info: Opportunity to mentor students and present at international conferences.
- Why this job: Make a real impact in quantum sensing while collaborating with top researchers.
- Qualifications: PhD in relevant field and strong cleanroom fabrication experience required.
The predicted salary is between 38784 - 41064 £ per year.
The University of Sheffield invites applications for an innovative role in developing a novel "magnetobiotics" platform that combines chip‑integrated quantum sensors with magnetically‑labelled microbes for next‑generation ecosystem interventions. The successful candidate will design, fabricate and package a photonic‑integrated quantum sensor chip based on nitrogen‑vacancy (NV) centres in diamond using our world‑class cleanroom facilities.
Main Duties and Responsibilities
- Design, simulate and fabricate photonic‑integrated quantum sensor chips using cleanroom micro/nanofabrication processes (e‑beam lithography, photolithography, thin‑film deposition, dry etching).
- Package and integrate the sensor chip into a robust testbed suitable for interfacing with ecological and biological samples.
- Characterise magnetic backgrounds in representative environmental media, calibrate sensor arrays and perform systematic drift and noise characterisation.
- Operate optical and microwave measurement setups for NV‑centre‑based quantum magnetometry, including OTDM experiments.
- Develop and iterate sensor designs to optimise standoff distance and sensitivity for detecting magnetically‑labelled microbes.
- Develop Python‑based software for experiment automation, data acquisition and analysis.
- Collaborate with the microbiology team at Queen Mary University of London on system integration.
- Analyse experimental data, prepare results for publication in high‑impact peer‑reviewed journals and present at international conferences.
- Contribute to the supervision of PhD and Master’s students.
- Carry out other duties commensurate with the grade and remit of the post.
Qualifications
- Hold or be close to completing a PhD in electronic engineering, physics, materials science or a related discipline (or have equivalent experience).
- Strong cleanroom fabrication experience including e‑beam lithography, photolithography, thin‑film deposition and dry etching.
- Experience designing and fabricating micro/nanophotonic or microelectronic devices.
- Experience developing, refining and documenting fabrication process flows for research devices and using characterisation results to guide process improvement.
- Proficiency in programming for experiment control and data analysis (Python).
- Experience publishing in peer‑reviewed journals.
- Excellent written and verbal communication skills, including experience writing publications/reports and presenting findings to a range of audiences.
- Ability to work effectively within a team environment with internal and external collaborators.
- Ability to plan own workload and prioritise conflicting deadlines.
- Desire to mentor undergraduate and PhD students.
- Experience with quantum sensing, optically detected magnetic resonance or NV‑centre magnetometry.
Desirable Qualifications
- Experience with semiconductor foundry processes, process development or photonic circuit design (Raith Elphy, Klayout, IPKISS, GDSfactory).
- Simulation experience (Lumerical, COMSOL) is also desirable.
- Knowledge of semiconductor foundry processes and photonic circuit design software.
Benefits
- Minimum 41 days annual leave (including bank holidays and university closure days), with option to purchase additional days.
- Flexible working opportunities, including hybrid arrangements.
- Generous pension scheme.
- Wide range of retail discounts and rewards.
- Access to staff networks and professional development programmes.
- Recognition awards and family‑friendly policies (including paid time off for parenting, caring emergencies, menopause support, fertility treatment).
Job Details
- Grade: 7
- Salary: £38,784 – £41,064
- Work arrangement: Full‑time
- Duration: Fixed term until 30 April 2028 (immediate start)
- Line manager: Dr Joe Smith, Lecturer in Quantum Technologies
EEO Statement
We are a Disability Confident Employer. If you have a disability and meet the essential criteria for this job you will be invited to take part in the next stage of the selection process.
Closing Date 05/06/2026
Research Associate in Quantum Sensor Nanofabrication in Sheffield employer: The University of Sheffield
The University of Sheffield is an exceptional employer, offering a dynamic work environment that fosters innovation and collaboration in cutting-edge research. With access to world-class cleanroom facilities and a commitment to employee development, including generous leave policies and flexible working arrangements, staff are empowered to thrive both professionally and personally. The opportunity to contribute to groundbreaking projects in quantum sensor nanofabrication while mentoring students makes this role particularly rewarding.
Contact Details:
The University of Sheffield Recruitment Team
StudySmarter Expert Advice🤫
We think this is how you could land Research Associate in Quantum Sensor Nanofabrication in Sheffield
✨Tip Number 1
Network like a pro! Reach out to people in your field, especially those connected to the University of Sheffield or quantum technologies. A friendly chat can lead to insider info about job openings and even recommendations.
✨Tip Number 2
Show off your skills! Prepare a portfolio showcasing your cleanroom fabrication projects and any relevant programming work in Python. This will give you an edge during interviews and help us see your hands-on experience.
✨Tip Number 3
Practice makes perfect! Get comfortable with common interview questions related to quantum sensing and nanofabrication. Mock interviews with friends or mentors can help you articulate your thoughts clearly.
✨Tip Number 4
Apply through our website! It’s the best way to ensure your application gets noticed. Plus, it shows you’re genuinely interested in joining our team at the University of Sheffield.
We think you need these skills to ace Research Associate in Quantum Sensor Nanofabrication in Sheffield
Some tips for your application 🫡
Tailor Your Application:Make sure to customise your CV and cover letter to highlight your relevant experience in cleanroom fabrication and quantum sensing. We want to see how your skills align with the role, so don’t hold back on showcasing your expertise!
Show Off Your Projects:If you've worked on any projects related to photonic-integrated devices or programming in Python, be sure to mention them! We love seeing practical examples of your work that demonstrate your capabilities and creativity.
Be Clear and Concise:When writing your application, keep it clear and to the point. Use straightforward language to explain your experiences and achievements. We appreciate well-structured applications that are easy to read!
Apply Through Our Website:Don’t forget to submit your application through our official website! It’s the best way to ensure your application gets the attention it deserves. Plus, it makes the process smoother for both you and us.
How to prepare for a job interview at The University of Sheffield
✨Know Your Quantum Stuff
Make sure you brush up on your knowledge of quantum sensors and NV-centres in diamond. Be ready to discuss how your previous experience with cleanroom fabrication processes like e-beam lithography and photolithography can contribute to the role. Showing that you understand the technical aspects will impress the interviewers.
✨Show Off Your Collaboration Skills
Since this role involves working with teams from different universities, be prepared to share examples of how you've successfully collaborated in the past. Highlight any experiences where you’ve worked with microbiology teams or similar fields, as this will demonstrate your ability to integrate into their collaborative environment.
✨Prepare for Technical Questions
Expect some deep dives into your technical skills, especially around programming in Python for experiment automation and data analysis. Brush up on your coding skills and be ready to discuss specific projects where you’ve used these skills to solve problems or improve processes.
✨Practice Your Presentation Skills
You’ll likely need to present your findings at conferences, so practice explaining complex concepts clearly and concisely. Prepare a short presentation on a relevant project you’ve worked on, focusing on your results and how they could apply to the new role. This will show your communication skills and your ability to engage an audience.
