Graduate PHD Photonic Scientist

Seagate Technology; Derry/Londonderry; On-site; GBP 30,000 - 50,000; Full time

Job summary

A global leader in data storage solutions is seeking a Process Engineer to develop and optimize wafer fabrication processes. This role involves working closely with a team on groundbreaking projects in photonics technology. Ideal candidates are PhD graduates or final-year students in materials science or physics with strong analytical skills. This position offers competitive compensation and numerous employee benefits.

Benefits

Private healthcare

Annual leave

Pension employer contributory scheme

Externally accredited training opportunities

Qualifications

• In the final year or recently graduated from a PhD degree program.
• Strong background in photonic, semiconductor or laser device fabrication.
• Experience with laser integration and semiconductor process development is a plus.

Responsibilities

• Develop & optimize wafer fabrication processes for photonic integrated devices.
• Conduct process characterization and troubleshooting.
• Implement and maintain process control methodologies.

Skills

Si, III-V semiconductor processing technologies

Thin-film materials characterization

Opto-electronics knowledge

Electrical test methods

Communication skills

Team player

Education

PhD degree in materials science, physics, optoelectronics

Tools

6 Sigma tools

R, JMP or similar statistical analysis software

Job description

About our group

Seagate is a global leader in data storage solutions. We strive to create precision‑engineered data storage technologies that deliver superior capacity, speed, safety, and performance. Seagate is where the future is read and written, with continuous innovation proving that a hard drive is not "just a hard drive". Find out how we are "shaping a new era of storage" as we craft the datasphere. As an industry leader, Seagate provides unique career opportunities to be part of today’s major technology shifts around the globe and on our website.

About the role

Working as a process engineer, you will leverage our high‑tech clean room fabrication facility using the most advanced manufacturing processes and design tools. You’ll be responsible for the development of new and improved processes in the areas of plasmonics, photonics integration, optical test & thin‑film wafer processing. You will collaborate with an established team, driving groundbreaking projects and leveraging Seagate’s unique materials and HAMR technologies to push the boundaries of photonics technology.

Responsibilities

• Develop & optimize wafer fabrication processes for photonic integrated devices, structures & systems.
• Conduct process characterization, troubleshooting, and continuous improvement activities.
• Develop process methods in the area of photolithography, deposition, dry and wet etch techniques.
• Implement and maintain process control methodologies to ensure high yield and reliability.
• Project plan and collaborate with adjacent teams and internal customers.
• Stay current with advancements in wafer processing technologies and industry best practices.
• Document and present process development results and findings.

About you

• Familiar with Si, III‑V semiconductor processing technologies and equipment.
• Knowledgeable in thin‑film materials characterization, test methods and techniques.
• Familiar with opto‑electronics, plasmonics and integrated photonic devices and systems.
• Familiar with electrical test methods and instrumentation.
• A good communicator with excellent presentation and written skills.
• A dedicated team player who works effectively in a cross‑functional team environment.

Your experience includes

• In the final year or recently graduated from a PhD degree program.
• Relevant degree in materials science, physics, optoelectronics.
• Strong background in photonic, semiconductor or laser device fabrication.
• Strong analytical skills, knowledge in 6 Sigma tools; R, JMP or similar statistical analysis software.
• Experience with laser integration and semiconductor process development is a plus.

Completed applications should be submitted no later than midnight on Tuesday, 9th December 2025.

This is a Full‑Time position working 39 hours per week.

Please demonstrate on your Cover Letter or CV how you meet the criteria set out in the job description identified above. Testing may be used as part of the selection process.

Equal Opportunity

Seagate Technology is committed to equal opportunity in employment and welcomes applications from all sections of the community irrespective of sex, marital status, religious affiliation, age, disability or ethnic origin. The Company specifically welcomes applications from the Protestant community who are currently underrepresented in this job category. All applications will be considered strictly on the basis of merit.

Location

Springtown, Derry / Londonderry, Northern Ireland. Our Springtown site is Derry/Londonderry’s largest manufacturer; we’re proud that Seagate is a flexible and inclusive place to work. We have more than 1,400 employees spanning research and development, manufacturing, and many other functions.

Benefits

• Health – Private healthcare for employees and dependents, company sick pay and medical leave, occupational healthcare service, employee assistance programmes, group income protection, on‑site gym/exercise classes or personal trainer.
• Work Life Balance – Annual leave, part‑time working, enhanced maternity pay, enhanced paternity pay, bereavement leave, on‑site gym.
• Finance – Pension employer contributory scheme, life assurance, employee stock purchase plan, competitive base pay, company bonus scheme, reward and recognition, perks at work discount programmes, pay for civil/jury duty.
• Career – Degree or non‑degree assistance, externally accredited training and development opportunities, service awards, LinkedIn learning, learning & development programmes.

Travel

None.