KTP Associate – Thin Film Technologist

The Knowledge Transfer Network Limited; Stirling; Hybrid; GBP 29,000 - 36,000; Full time

Job summary

Integrated Graphene Ltd (iGii) and the University of the West of Scotland invite applications for a materials/thin film technologist on a 36-month Knowledge Transfer Partnership (KTP). You will develop self-powered sensors using Triboelectric Nanogenerator and Piezoresistive mat tech, while replacing wet chemistry with plasma-assisted sputtering methods for energy storage coatings.

You will be employed by the University of the West of Scotland, splitting time between iGii and the ITFSI, with

Qualifications

• Minimum BSc and preferably a PhD in physics/engineering/materials/thin films.
• Knowledge of surface analysis and characterisation techniques (SEM, TEM, AFM, optical and engineering thin film measurements).
• Experience with thin films, measurements, and familiarity with physical vapour deposition processes.
• Experience in research methods and project management.
• Hands-on problem solving and troubleshooting abilities.

Responsibilities

• Lead the KTP project between university and industry partners.
• Collaborate with senior management to realise business benefits.
• Receive training in Chartered Management Institute (up to level 5).
• Work across UWS ITFSI and Integrated Graphene Ltd with mentoring support.

Skills

Surface analysis

Thin film measurement

Research methods

Problem solving

Physical Vapour Deposition

Education

BSc in physics/engineering/materials/thin films

PhD preferred

Tools

SEM

TEM

AFM

Job description

An exciting opportunity for a materials/thin film technologist has become available to work full time on a 36-month Knowledge Transfer Partnership (KTP). The primary aims of the project are to develop self powered sensors and transducers that eliminate the need for external power sources by utilising emerging Triboelectric Nanogenerator (TENG) and Piezoresistive mat technologies.

Also replace existing wet chemistry processes with a more efficient, sustainable, controllable and scalable method for coating Gii® for energy storage applications, through the adoption of Plasma-Assisted Reactive Magnetron Sputtering (PARMS). PARMS was researched and previously developed within an Integrated Graphene Ltd (iGii) PhD project within University of the West of Scotland (UWS) Institute of Thin Films, Sensors & Imaging (ITFSI) resulting in a PARMS patent application.

The candidate will receive training in Chartered Management Institute (up to level 5), working with senior company management to realise benefits to the business and apply their degree and lead their own project in a business environment.

The successful candidate must possess a minimum BSc and preferably a PhD in physics/ engineering/ materials/ thin films-related subject.

The ideal candidate will have knowledge and/or experience in some of the following areas:

• Surface analysis and characterisation techniques, such as SEM, TEM, AFM, optical and engineering thin film measurements & analysis.
• Thin films and measurement experience.
• Knowledge of research methods and project management.
• Hands on approach to problem solving & trouble shooting
• Familiarity with physical vapour deposition processes.

The successful candidate will be employed by the University of the West of Scotland however time will be split between Integrated Graphene Ltd (iGii) and the Institute of Thin Films, Sensors & Imaging, University of the West of Scotland . The associate will be fully supported by both company staff and staff at UWS. In addition, the associate will receive mentoring support from a local KTP Advisor and will have access to staff from the UWS KTP Centre; providing further support and guidance during your period as a KTP Associate and providing access to an extensive network of KTP projects throughout the UK.

About the business

Integrated Graphene Ltd (iGii) have developed a novel patented 3D carbon nanomaterial, Gii® , a material that replicates the properties of graphene but offers lower cost and greater sustainability. The project aligns with iGii`s strategic vision to deliver sustainable, high performance Gii® materials and sensor technologies at industrial scale.