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- Tasks: Join a dynamic team to develop novel infrared spectroscopy in nano-photonics.
- Company: Be part of the UK NanoPhotonics Centre at the University of Cambridge.
- Benefits: Competitive salary, opportunities for promotion, and collaboration with leading researchers.
- Why this job: Make groundbreaking discoveries in nano-photonics and work on innovative projects.
- Qualifications: Strong physics or chemistry PhD, experience in optical dynamics and nano-optics.
- Other info: Collaborate across disciplines and contribute to cutting-edge research.
The predicted salary is between 33700 - 46000 £ 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 nano-photonics 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.
The 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
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.
Institutional 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 and 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 Promotions
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 the PhD, promoted to Grade 7.
Application Process
Click the 'Apply' button below to register an account with our recruitment system (if you have not already) and apply online.
Contact Information
Informal enquiries are welcome and should be addressed to Prof Jeremy Baumberg, jjb12@cam.ac.uk. If you have any queries regarding the application process, please contact: hr@phy.cam.ac.uk. Please quote reference KA48469 on your application and in any correspondence about this vacancy.
Equality, Diversity & Inclusion
The University actively supports equality, diversity and inclusion and encourages applications from all sections of society. The University has a responsibility to ensure that all employees are eligible to live and work in the UK.
Research Associate in NanoPhotonics (Fixed Term) in Cambridge employer: University of Cambridge
Contact Detail:
University of Cambridge Recruiting Team
StudySmarter Expert Advice 🤫
We think this is how you could land Research Associate in NanoPhotonics (Fixed Term) in Cambridge
✨Tip Number 1
Network like a pro! Reach out to current or former employees in the NanoPhotonics group. A friendly chat can give us insights into the team culture and maybe even a referral!
✨Tip Number 2
Prepare for the interview by diving deep into recent publications from the group. Knowing their latest work will show us that you're genuinely interested and ready to contribute.
✨Tip Number 3
Showcase your hands-on experience! Be ready to discuss specific projects where you've used advanced optical engineering or plasmonic spectroscopies. We love seeing practical skills in action.
✨Tip Number 4
Don’t forget to apply through our website! It’s the best way to ensure your application gets the attention it deserves. Plus, we’re always on the lookout for passionate candidates like you!
We think you need these skills to ace Research Associate in NanoPhotonics (Fixed Term) in Cambridge
Some tips for your application 🫡
Tailor Your Application: Make sure to customise your CV and cover letter to highlight your experience in nano-optics and plasmonic spectroscopies. We want to see how your background aligns with the specific requirements of the Research Associate role.
Show Off Your Skills: Don’t hold back on showcasing your experimental skills! Include any relevant projects or research that demonstrate your expertise in optical dynamics and near-field spectroscopy. We love seeing what you can bring to the table.
Be Clear and Concise: Keep your application clear and to the point. Use straightforward language to explain your experience and how it relates to the role. We appreciate clarity, and it helps us understand your qualifications better.
Apply Through Our Website: Remember to apply through our website by clicking the 'Apply' button. It’s the easiest way for us to receive your application and ensures you’re considered for the position. We can’t wait to hear from you!
How to prepare for a job interview at University of Cambridge
✨Know Your Stuff
Make sure you brush up on your knowledge of advanced optical engineering and plasmonic spectroscopies. Familiarise yourself with recent research in the field, especially the work being done at the UK NanoPhotonics Centre. This will not only help you answer technical questions but also show your genuine interest in the role.
✨Showcase Your Experience
Prepare to discuss your hands-on experience with nanoscale measurements and optical dynamics. Be ready to share specific examples of projects you've worked on, particularly those involving Raman scattering or self-assembled monolayers. This will demonstrate your practical skills and how they align with the job requirements.
✨Emphasise Collaboration
Since the role involves working within a diverse team, highlight your ability to collaborate across disciplines. Share experiences where you successfully worked with others from different backgrounds, as this will resonate well with the team's values and culture.
✨Ask Insightful Questions
Prepare thoughtful questions about the NanoPhotonics group and ongoing projects. Inquire about the specific challenges they face in developing new optical spectroscopy rigs or the future direction of their research. This shows that you're not just interested in the position, but also in contributing to their goals.
