Marie Curie ITN Researcher in Glasgow

To carry out research relevant to the research project HiPOVor: Photonic integrated chip-based beam forming for seeding amplified high-power Vortices working with Professor Martin Lavery. HiPOVor aims to train 15 ESRs as the first generation of a workforce skilled in all aspects concerning the generation of optical vortices with high power and high modal purity and its application as a key enabling technology widely in light-matter interaction aspects.

High‑power optical signals are critical to a range of technology sectors, including space communications, laser cutting, optical power transfer, and biomedical research. In this project, you will investigate the use of integrated photonics as a tool for pre‑shaping optical fields before high‑power amplification. You will develop core, in‑demand skills in the design, layout, and real‑time control of integrated photonic systems. Supported by the Structured Photonics Research Group at the University of Glasgow, you have the opportunity to apply your research to a range of communication, sensing applications, ranging from quantum optics, environmental sensors, and next‑generation biomedical technology development. As the project focuses on training, there is an expectation that the candidate will submit a PhD in the field relevant to the project and publish the results in journals of good impact. The candidate is also expected to attend and contribute to the workshops and secondments as specified in the project programme.

Main Duties and Responsibilities:

• To undertake high quality research in the area of integrated photonics as a tool for pre‑shaping optical fields before high‑power amplification.
• To contribute to research papers, present reports at lab meetings, give internal seminars, as well as talks and posters at national and international meetings in order to maintain University recognition and enhance the research profile of the group.
• To develop professional skills in laboratory studies in the design, layout, and real‑time control of integrated photonic systems.
• To collaborate with members of the group in order to deliver the research results.
• To support colleagues and supervise less experienced members of the group to assist the development of research skills and the delivery of results.
• To keep up to date with current developments and research literature in the field.
• To train in areas relevant to the Marie Curie research programme and submit a PhD.
• To contribute to Departmental/School research‑related activities and research‑related administration.
• To attend and contribute to the workshops and secondments specified in the programme.
• Engage in personal, professional and career development to enhance both specialist and transferable skills in accordance with desired career trajectory.
• Undertake any other duties of equivalent standing as assigned by the Head of School and/or PI.

Knowledge, Qualifications, Skills and Experience:

Knowledge/Qualifications – Essential:

• A1 – Good (equivalent to first class or upper second) BSc or equivalent undergraduate degree in relevant area.
• A2 – Up to date knowledge of subject area, practical and theoretical.

Knowledge/Qualifications – Desirable:

• B1 – Knowledge of integrated photonics as a tool for pre‑shaping optical fields at undergraduate level or above.
• B2 – A Master’s degree or equivalent in the relevant area, which makes the candidate eligible for initiating a PhD.
• B3 – Practical and theoretical knowledge in the research areas of integrated photonics.

Skills – Essential:

• C1 – Excellent interpersonal skills to allow working as part of a team.
• C2 – Strong writing and presenting skills.
• C3 – Ability to plan, design and develop laboratory experiments involving fabrication and characterisation of sensors and electronics device and their modelling.
• C4 – Appropriate workload/time/project/budget/people management skills.
• C5 – Extensive IT and data analysis/interpretation skills as appropriate.
• C6 – Self‑motivation, initiative and independent thought/working.
• C7 – Problem‑solving skills including a flexible and pragmatic approach.

Experience – Essential:

• E1 – Relevant research experience as per requirements of Marie Curie ITNs.
• E2 – Experience of scientific writing.
• E3 – Proven ability to deliver quality outputs in a timely and efficient manner.

Experience – Desirable:

• F1 – Writing reports or research papers.

Terms and Conditions:

Salary: Approx. £45,000 – £50,000 per annum. Final salary will be determined according to the Marie Curie – Doctoral Networks rates. Researchers will receive a mobility allowance and if applicable a family allowance. Approximate gross salary stated above is subject to employers NI deductions and the amount varies according to the living costs of host country. This post is full time (35 hours per week) and fixed term for 3 years.

Eligibility requirements:

According to the regulations for mobility within the Marie Curie programme, the researcher must not have carried out their main activity (work, studies, etc) in the country of their host organisation (in this case, the United Kingdom) for more than 12 months in the 3 years immediately prior to recruitment. The researcher should not have obtained a PhD degree and should not have more than 4 years full‑time or equivalent research experience since obtaining the degree which makes them eligible for starting the PhD degree.

Equality, Diversity and Inclusion:

We believe that we can only reach our full potential through the talents of all. Equality, diversity and inclusion are at the heart of our values. Applications are particularly welcome from across our communities and in particular people from the Black, Asian and Minority Ethnic (BAME) community, and other protected characteristics who are under‑represented within the University. The University promotes and embeds all aspects of equality and diversity within our community. We endorse the principles of Athena Swan and hold bronze, silver and gold awards across the University.

Closing Date: 20 May 2026