Research Associate in III-V devices (Fixed Term)

University of Cambridge; Cambridge; On-site; GBP 30,000 - 40,000; Full time

Job summary

A leading research institution in Cambridge seeks a research assistant/associate for developing efficient solar cells for space applications. Candidates should have a PhD in Physics or a related field and experience with III-V material systems. Enjoy a collaborative environment within the Department of Physics while advancing solar technology research. Apply online by submitting your CV and cover letter.

Qualifications

• Proven track record in independent scientific investigation.
• Experience in simulation, fabrication, and characterization of solar cells.
• Ability to write reports and present results.

Responsibilities

• Develop process methodologies for solar cells fabrication.
• Design flows for resilient solar devices.
• Characterize device performance using various techniques.
• Conduct particle radiation testing and simulation.

Skills

Independent scientific investigation

Simulation and characterization of solar cells

Organizational skills

Communication and teamwork

Education

PhD in Physics or related field

Job description

Overview

Fixed-term: The funds for this post are available until 30 June 2027 in the first instance.

A research assistant/associate is sought to work on the development of efficient and highly resilient solar cells for space applications within the Department of Physics under the supervision of Prof. Louise Hirst.

Responsibilities

• Develop new process methodologies to fabricate ultra-thin III-V photovoltaic devices in the Cavendish Nanofabrication facility at the Ray Dolby Centre, the new home for Physics in Cambridge.
• Design new process flows for the fabrication of high performance, larger area devices that are resilient to hostile space environments, with a focus on uniformity and reproducibility.
• Use techniques including quantum efficiency, light and dark IV to characterise device performance and correlate with device and optical simulation to identify design limitations.
• Undertake particle radiation testing of devices and use space environment simulation tools to estimate performance for mission profiles relevant to technology applications.

Qualifications and experience

• The successful candidate will hold (or be close to obtaining) a PhD in Physics or a closely related field with a proven track record in pursuing independent scientific investigation.
• Preference will be given to candidates with experience in simulation, fabrication and characterization of solar cells based on III-V material systems.
• A demonstrated ability to write reports, present results and contribute to academic papers and experience managing own workload are desirable.
• Proven organisational, communication and team working skills are desirable.

How to apply

Click the 'Apply' button below to register an account with our recruitment system (if you have not already) and apply online.

Please ensure that you upload your Curriculum Vitae (CV) and a covering letter, in the upload section of the online application. If you upload any additional documents which have not been requested, we will not be able to consider these as part of your application. Please submit your application by midnight on the closing date.

Contacts

If you have any questions about this vacancy please contact Prof Louise Hirst ([e-mail]). If you have any questions about the application process, please contact [e-mail].

Please quote reference KA47366 on your application and in any correspondence about this vacancy.

Equality and eligibility

The University actively supports equality, diversity and inclusion and encourages applications from all sections of society.

The University has a responsibility to ensure that all employees are eligible to live and work in the UK.