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- Tasks: Conduct innovative research on nitride materials and devices for sustainable power electronics.
- Company: Join the prestigious University of Cambridge's cutting-edge research centre.
- Benefits: Competitive salary, collaborative environment, and opportunities for professional growth.
- Why this job: Make a real impact in sustainable technology while advancing your research career.
- Qualifications: PhD in relevant field and experience in nitride crystal growth and characterisation techniques.
- Other info: Fixed-term position with potential for interdisciplinary collaboration and career advancement.
The predicted salary is between 37694 - 46049 £ per year.
A talented and creative postdoctoral researcher is sought to work in the Cambridge Centre for Gallium Nitride performing growth of nitride materials and devices for applications in power electronics and characterising the resulting materials. The Cambridge Centre for Gallium Nitride is part of the Department of Materials Science and Metallurgy at the University of Cambridge and leads the nitride activity within the EPSRC National Epitaxy Facility. This post is available under the Compound Semiconductor Manufacturing Hub for a Sustainable Future (funded by EPSRC) in collaboration with the University of Cardiff and other partners.
In the context of developing more sustainable and less resource intensive routes to the manufacturing of nitride semiconductor devices, the successful candidate will contribute to research on the growth of high electron mobility transistors (HEMTs) on 200 mm silicon substrates and to the development of routes to reuse substrates in the nitride transistor supply chain. The role may also present the opportunity for basic device fabrication to facilitate epitaxy characterisation, and hence experience of device fabrication is desirable.
Responsibilities
- Manage research activities, generate high quality data, and develop scientific techniques related to nitride growth and epitaxy.
- Contribute intellectually to the direction of the nitride research within the Centre and present data locally at lab meetings and seminars, and more widely at international conferences.
- Draft scientific manuscripts with support from Prof Oliver and contribute to day-to-day supervision of Masters or PhD students.
- Collaborate in interdisciplinary research and work both independently and as part of a team.
Qualifications and Skills
- PhD (or expected to complete within 3 months) in Materials Science, Physics, Electrical Engineering or a related area.
- Extensive experience of nitride crystal growth, preferably using metal-organic vapour phase epitaxy (MOVPE).
- Experience with characterization techniques such as two or more of the following: scanning probe microscopy, X-ray diffraction, scanning electron microscopy, cathodoluminescence spectroscopy, photoluminescence spectroscopy, transmission electron microscopy, Hall probe measurements, or C-V measurements.
- Ability to present data clearly in verbal and written form.
- Commitment to collaborative and interdisciplinary research and ability to work independently and in a team.
Additional Information
- Salary range for a Research Associate: £37,694–£46,049 per annum. Candidates appointed prior to PhD completion as a Research Assistant will receive £34,610 per annum with promotion to Research Associate on attainment of PhD.
- Fixed-term: funds available for 42 months.
- Applications should include a CV and a research statement.
- EOE: The University actively supports equality, diversity and inclusion and encourages applications from all sections of society. Applications from women, Black and minority ethnic candidates are particularly welcome.
- Queries: Professor Rachel Oliver (rao28@cam.ac.uk), with copies to ajt69@cam.ac.uk and hrmsm@msm.cam.ac.uk.
- Apply online through the University recruitment system. PhD project applications should also be submitted via the University Application Portal: www.postgraduate.study.cam.ac.uk/apply. Early applications are encouraged as positions may be filled before the deadline.
- Please quote reference LJ48766 on your application and in any correspondence about this vacancy.
- The University has a responsibility to ensure that all employees are eligible to live and work in the UK.
Post-Doctoral Research Associate (Fixed Term) in Cambridge employer: University of Cambridge Vet School
Contact Detail:
University of Cambridge Vet School Recruiting Team
StudySmarter Expert Advice 🤫
We think this is how you could land Post-Doctoral Research Associate (Fixed Term) in Cambridge
✨Tip Number 1
Network like a pro! Reach out to your contacts in the field of materials science and nitride research. Attend conferences, seminars, or even local meet-ups to connect with potential collaborators or employers. You never know who might have the inside scoop on job openings!
✨Tip Number 2
Show off your skills! Prepare a portfolio showcasing your research projects, data analysis, and any publications. This will help you stand out during interviews and give you something tangible to discuss with potential employers.
✨Tip Number 3
Practice makes perfect! Conduct mock interviews with friends or mentors to refine your presentation skills. Be ready to discuss your experience with nitride crystal growth and characterisation techniques in detail, as these are key to landing that post-doc position.
✨Tip Number 4
Apply through our website! We encourage you to submit your application directly via the University recruitment system. It’s the best way to ensure your application gets the attention it deserves, and you can easily keep track of your submissions.
We think you need these skills to ace Post-Doctoral Research Associate (Fixed Term) in Cambridge
Some tips for your application 🫡
Craft a Stellar CV: Your CV is your first impression, so make it count! Highlight your PhD, relevant experience in nitride crystal growth, and any cool projects you've worked on. Tailor it to show how your skills align with the role at the Cambridge Centre for Gallium Nitride.
Write a Compelling Research Statement: This is your chance to showcase your research interests and how they fit into our mission. Be clear about your past work, future goals, and how you can contribute to sustainable semiconductor manufacturing. Keep it engaging and focused!
Show Off Your Collaboration Skills: We love teamwork! In your application, mention any collaborative projects or interdisciplinary research you've been part of. This shows us you're not just a lone wolf but someone who thrives in a team environment.
Apply Early and Follow Instructions: Don't wait until the last minute! Apply through our website as soon as you can. Make sure to quote reference LJ48766 in your application and any correspondence. Following instructions shows attention to detail, which is crucial in research!
How to prepare for a job interview at University of Cambridge Vet School
✨Know Your Stuff
Make sure you brush up on your knowledge of nitride crystal growth and the specific techniques mentioned in the job description, like MOVPE. Being able to discuss your experience with characterisation techniques will show that you're not just familiar with the theory but have practical skills too.
✨Show Your Collaborative Spirit
This role emphasises teamwork and interdisciplinary research, so be ready to share examples of how you've successfully collaborated in the past. Highlight any experiences where you contributed to a team project or mentored students, as this will demonstrate your ability to work well with others.
✨Prepare for Technical Questions
Expect some technical questions related to your field. Think about potential challenges in nitride growth and how you would address them. Practising answers to common technical questions can help you feel more confident during the interview.
✨Craft Your Research Statement
Since you'll need to submit a research statement, make sure it’s clear, concise, and showcases your passion for the subject. Be prepared to discuss it in detail during the interview, as it’s a great opportunity to highlight your research interests and how they align with the Centre's goals.
