Postdoctoral Research Fellow in Electromagnetic Engineering Ref: 44224 (Fixed Term, Part Time)

University of Sussex; Brighton; On-site; GBP 39,000 - 46,000; Part time

Job summary

The University of Sussex is seeking a highly motivated researcher to undertake design and computational work on graphene-based programmable metasurface devices for nanoscale beamforming. You will contribute to simulations, data interpretation, and model refinement within a collaborative 6G Lab and Graphene Centre team.

The role requires a PhD or equivalent, strong EM knowledge, and proficiency in CST/COMSOL/HFSS and Python/MATLAB.

Qualifications

• PhD or equivalent research experience in engineering, physics, electromagnetics or materials science.
• Experience with computational EM modelling and design using CST, COMSOL, HFSS.
• Ability to interpret experimental data and validate/refine models.

Responsibilities

• Perform design and computational work on graphene-based programmable metasurface devices.
• Collaborate with university teams and publish findings.

Skills

Python

MATLAB

EM theory

Education

PhD or equivalent

Tools

CST

COMSOL

HFSS

Job description

About the role

You will undertake design and computational work on the project “Graphene-Based Programmable Holographic Metasurface Devices for Magnetic Field Beamforming and Beam-Steering at the Nanoscale. The project is funded by a pump-prime grant from the UK Metamaterials Networks, supported by the EPSRC and is a collaboration between the 6G Lab at the University of Sussex and the Graphene Centre at the University of Cambridge.

The project is led by Prof. Maziar Nekovee at the University of Sussex.

About you

The successful candidate will hold a PhD, or equivalent research experience, in engineering, physics, electromagnetics, materials science or a related discipline, with strong knowledge of electromagnetic theory, metasurfaces, graphene or related areas. Essential experience includes computational electromagnetic modelling and design using CST, COMSOL, HFSS or equivalent, analysis and design of resonant structures and electromagnetic fields, and scientific programming using Python, MATLAB or similar. Candidates should also be able to interpret experimental data, validate and refine models, and work effectively both independently and collaboratively.

Desirable experience includes graphene plasmonics, terahertz devices, split-ring resonators, programmable metasurfaces, holographic beamforming or phased arrays, together with an emerging record of high-quality publications and research or knowledge-exchange activity.

About our School

In the School of Engineering and Informatics we cover the disciplines of computer, electrical and electronic engineering, mechanical, and automotive engineering, product design, digital media, computer science and informatics. Our distinctive characteristics are: creativity, interdisciplinarity, strong links with industries, and an international outlook in both research and teaching. £10m (£4.9m from HEFCE) has been invested in the Future Technologies Laboratory as a result of a 60% surge in applications for the School’s degrees.

Our interdisciplinary approach applies to our research, with current and recent externally funded projects with researchers in a wide range of other subject areas. Innovative research across the School has led to a number of patents which are being commercialised including: novel electric potential sensors (EPS) licensed to Plessey Semiconductors and marketed as the EPIC sensor chip; and University spin-out companies, including InCrowd Sports, and TexRAD.

Please find further information regarding the School of Engineering and Informatics.

The School of Engineering and Informatics is proud to hold a BronzeAthena SwannAward.

Why work here

Our university is situated off the A27, next to the beautiful South Downs where you will enjoy everything that our 150-acre campus has to offer.

Further Key Information

Please contact Maziar Nekovee ([e-mail]) for informal enquiries.

The University of Sussex values the diversity of its staff and students, and we welcome applicants from all backgrounds.

Eligibility

Visa Sponsorship Queries:This role has been assigned an eligible SOC code, however, the role does not meet the eligibility for sponsorship due to its part-time nature. Please consult our Skilled Worker Visa information page for further information about Visa Sponsorship.

The University requires that work undertaken for the University is performed in the UK.

Attachments:Job_Description_Ref_44223.pdf

Expected Interview Date:To Be Confirmed.

Expected Start Date:20 November 2026

Fixed Term Contract Duration:Fixed Term until 19 May 2027.

£38,784 to £46,049. Grade 7, per annum, pro rata if part time.