Photonics Research and Development Manager

Seagate Technology; Derry/Londonderry; On-site; GBP 100,000 - 125,000; Full time

Job summary

A leading data storage solutions provider in Derry/Londonderry is looking for a Photonics Research Manager to lead a cutting-edge research group. The role involves defining strategic research directions aligned with company goals and mentoring a multidisciplinary team. Applicants should hold a PhD in a relevant field and have significant experience in photonics. The position offers competitive benefits including health care, work-life balance initiatives, and career development opportunities.

Benefits

Private healthcare for employees

On-site gym

Enhanced maternity and paternity pay

Pension contribution

Competitive base pay

Qualifications

• Proven track record in integrated photonics applications.
• Minimum 3 years in photonics-focused process engineering.
• Experience in collaborating with foundries and packaging teams.

Responsibilities

• Lead a cutting-edge photonics research group focused on advanced materials.
• Define strategic research directions aligned with company goals.
• Mentor and manage a multidisciplinary team of scientists and engineers.

Skills

Leadership Skills

Data Analysis

Technical Communication

Interdisciplinary Collaboration

Education

PhD in Optics, Physics, Electro-Optics, or Electrical Engineering

Tools

Photonics Device Fabrication

IC Layout

Optical Testing Techniques

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. They can be found around the globe and on our website.

Are you ready to shape the future of photonics? We’re looking for a visionary and driven Photonics Research Manager to lead the creation of a cutting‑edge research group. This is a unique opportunity to define the direction of a new research initiative and make a lasting impact in a fast‑evolving field.

About the role - you will:

• Lead a cutting‑edge photonics research group focused on advanced materials and device innovation.
• Define strategic research directions aligned with company goals in photonics.
• Leverage Seagate HAMR proprietary technologies to develop photonic solutions.
• Mentor and manage a multidisciplinary team of scientists and engineers.
• Work with industry and academia to drive advancements for commercial applications.
• Stay up to date with the latest photonic device research trends and technologies.
• Ensure compliance with safety and quality standards.

About you:

• Ability to inspire, guide, and empower a high‑performing research team.
• A forward‑thinking mindset to generate innovative ideas and solutions in photonics.
• Skilled at working across disciplines with internal teams, industry and academic collaborators.
• Proficient in data analysis, modelling and interpretation to support evidence‑based decisions.
• Able to clearly articulate complex technical concepts to diverse audiences.
• Committed to developing talent and fostering a culture of curiosity and continuous learning.
• Upholds high standards of research ethics, safety and intellectual property management.

Your experience includes:

• PhD in Optics, Physics, Electro‑Optics, Electrical Engineering or a closely related discipline.
• Minimum 3 years of experience in photonics‑focused process engineering within industry or advanced research environments.
• Strong expertise in photonic device fabrication and IC layout, including lithography, etching, thin‑film deposition and metrology.
• Proven track record in integrated photonics applications, such as silicon photonics, quantum photonics or high‑speed optical interconnects.
• Experience collaborating with foundries, packaging teams and system‑level integration groups.
• Strong communication skills and ability to present complex technical concepts to stakeholders.

You might also have:

• Experience of photonic customer/supplier relations, quality and regulatory requirements.
• Hands‑on experience of optical testing and characterization techniques.
• Demonstrated success in the preparation of technical proposals, publications and patents.

Completed applications should be submitted no later than midnight on Sunday, 18th January 2026.

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.

At Seagate we are committed to building a diverse, inclusive and authentic workplace. To see all vacancies that Seagate has available, please sign up – register your interest for career updates with our talent network and to be considered for future opportunities: Seagate Careers.

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.

Here at work, you can grab breakfast, lunch, dinner and snacks at our subsidised on‑site cafe.

Looking for an active break from your workday? We’ve got you covered. Take a group or individual exercise class during lunch or after work at our on‑site gym.

Network with your colleagues through our Young Professionals Network, Women’s Leadership Group, the Carers Café (for caregivers of individuals with disabilities), volunteer in the community with our support! Join our creative network, which includes a choir, foreign language classes and even a cookery class.

Join our Employee Resource Groups (ERG), a voluntary, employee‑led community built on a shared diversity identity and/or an appreciation of that identity, open to ALL current employees at Seagate.

See list below of many of our Springtown Company Benefits:

• Health – Private healthcare for employees and dependents, company sick pay and medical leave, occupational healthcare service, employee assistance programmes, group income protection and on‑site gym/exercise classes/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/non‑degree assistance, externally accredited training and development opportunities, service awards, LinkedIn learning, learning & development programmes.

Travel

None.