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- Tasks: Join a dynamic team to develop novel infrared spectroscopy for cutting-edge NanoPhotonics research.
- Company: Be part of the UK NanoPhotonics Centre at the University of Cambridge.
- Benefits: Competitive salary, collaborative environment, and opportunities for interdisciplinary work.
- Why this job: Make a real impact in advanced optical engineering and nanoscale research.
- Qualifications: Strong physics or chemistry PhD, with experience in optical dynamics and plasmonics.
- Other info: Collaborate with top researchers and gain exposure to international projects.
The predicted salary is between 30700 - 38400 £ per year.
Fixed-term: The funds for this post are available for 2 years in the first instance. Applications are invited for an experimental researcher post available from July 2026 for 2 years. The researcher will be part of the NanoPhotonics group, which looks at nanoscale assembly and NanoPhotonics interactions. The candidate will join a dynamic and diverse team that values collaboration.
The role holder will develop novel infrared spectroscopy on self-assembled plasmonic nanocavities to study nonlinear interactions. This project aims to exploit plasmonic confinement of light in nanoscale cavities including molecules, to upconvert light from the infrared to the visible where it can be easily detected. This will continue our work building nanoscale assembly with molecular layers and plasmonic confinement from colloidal-assembly nanoparticle gaps. This research will require strong knowledge and experience of advanced optical engineering, plasmonic spectroscopies, and nano-optics. We therefore welcome applications with aligned scientific backgrounds. Experience in Raman scattering, self-assembled monolayers and attachment, and plasmonic self-assembly would be advantageous.
Job requirements (Qualifications)
Candidates will have, or be close to obtaining, a strong physics or chemistry PhD or a related discipline, with proven experience in measuring optical dynamics on the nanoscale in the THz domain as well as near-field spectroscopy, and in developing both plasmonics and metasurface devices. In addition to proven experimental skills the candidate should ideally have experience in working across disciplinary boundaries. They should expect to be involved in both construction of new optical spectroscopy rigs using lasers as well as a variety of chemical sample preparations or synthesis. Experience in the field of plasmonics or metamaterials or soft materials would be helpful, as well as with surface-enhanced Raman scattering and chemistry of nano-assembly and nano-systems.
Collaboration and context
The UK NanoPhotonics Centre collaborates widely across the University of Cambridge including the Departments of Chemistry, Engineering, Physics of Medicine, Cancer Research UK, Chemical Engineering, Materials as well as many international partners, industry, with several major EU programmes. Recent publications can be seen on our website. Prof JJ Baumberg, FRS, is an acknowledged leader in discovering and assembling nanomaterials for novel photonics.
Salary and appointments
A successful candidate with a PhD will be appointed at Grade 7 (Research Associate £37,694 to £46,049 per annum). A candidate who has not been awarded their PhD will initially be appointed at Grade 5 (Research Assistant £34,610) and, upon award of PhD, promoted to Grade 7.
How to apply
Click the 'Apply' button below to register an application.
Research Associate in NanoPhotonics (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 Research Associate in NanoPhotonics (Fixed Term) in Cambridge
✨Network Like a Pro
Get out there and connect with people in the NanoPhotonics field! Attend conferences, workshops, or even local meetups. We all know that sometimes it’s not just what you know, but who you know that can help you land that dream job.
✨Show Off Your Skills
When you get the chance to chat with potential employers, make sure to highlight your hands-on experience with optical engineering and plasmonic spectroscopies. We want to see how your unique skills can contribute to their projects, so don’t hold back!
✨Be Ready for Technical Questions
Brush up on your knowledge of advanced optical techniques and nano-optics before interviews. We recommend preparing for some technical questions that might come your way, especially around THz domain measurements and near-field spectroscopy.
✨Apply Through Our Website
Don’t forget to apply through our website! It’s the best way to ensure your application gets seen by the right people. Plus, we love seeing candidates who are proactive about their job search.
We think you need these skills to ace Research Associate in NanoPhotonics (Fixed Term) in Cambridge
Some tips for your application 🫡
Tailor Your CV: Make sure your CV is tailored to highlight your experience in advanced optical engineering and plasmonic spectroscopies. We want to see how your background aligns with the exciting work we do in NanoPhotonics!
Craft a Compelling Cover Letter: Your cover letter is your chance to shine! Use it to explain why you're passionate about this role and how your skills can contribute to our team. Don’t forget to mention any relevant projects or experiences that showcase your expertise.
Showcase Your Collaborative Spirit: Since we value collaboration, make sure to include examples of how you've worked effectively in teams. Highlight any interdisciplinary projects you've been involved in, as this will resonate well with us.
Apply Through Our Website: We encourage you to apply through our website for a smooth application process. It’s the best way to ensure your application gets into the right hands and shows your enthusiasm for joining our dynamic team!
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 advanced optical engineering and plasmonic spectroscopies. Be ready to discuss your experience with nanoscale measurements and any relevant projects you've worked on, especially those involving infrared spectroscopy or Raman scattering.
✨Show Your Collaborative Spirit
Since the role involves working in a dynamic team, highlight your experience in collaborative projects. Share examples of how you've successfully worked across different disciplines and how you can contribute to the NanoPhotonics group’s goals.
✨Prepare for Technical Questions
Expect some technical questions related to nano-optics and the specific techniques mentioned in the job description. Practise explaining complex concepts in a simple way, as this will demonstrate your understanding and communication skills.
✨Ask Insightful Questions
At the end of the interview, have a few thoughtful questions ready about the research group's current projects or future directions. This shows your genuine interest in the role and helps you assess if it's the right fit for you.
