Research Associate in Optoelectronic Devices and Photonic Integrated Circuits

University of Strathclyde; Glasgow; On-site; GBP 36,000 - 48,000; Part time

Job summary

The University of Strathclyde invites applications for a Research Associate in Optoelectronic Devices and Photonic Integrated Circuits. The role focuses on design, implementation and characterization of co-packaged solutions for neuromorphic photonic components, working with academics and experienced microfabrication staff to meet project objectives.

The successful candidate will have a PhD in physics or engineering, strong experience in photonics and optoelectronic device fabrication and an

Qualifications

• PhD in physics or engineering with significant photonics research.
• Experience in photonic device microfabrication and characterisation.
• Proficiency in photonic design using Python libraries (GDS-helpers, K-layout).
• Ability to plan workload and develop microfabrication processes with best practices.
• Autonomy in using cleanroom equipment including wire bonding and flip-chip bonding.
• Experience in laser direct writing lithography systems.
• Solid understanding of optoelectronic devices.

Responsibilities

• Design, implement and characterise co-packaged neuromorphic photonic components.
• Collaborate with academics and microfabrication personnel.
• Develop and optimise photonic integrated circuits.
• Conduct electrical and optical device characterisation in the photonics lab.
• Contribute to project objectives and disseminate results.

Skills

PhD required

Photonics research

Optoelectronic device fabrication

Python-based photonics design

Cleanroom equipment mastery

Wire bonding and flip-chip bonding

Laser direct writing lithography

Understanding of optoelectronicdevices

Education

PhD in physics or engineering

Tools

GDS-helpers

K-layout

Python photonics libraries

Job description

Research Associate in Optoelectronic Devices and Photonic Integrated Circuits (845637)

FTE:1.0 (35 hours/week)

Contract Type:Fixed Term (17 months)

Closing Date:18th September 2026

The appointment encompasses the design, implementation andcharacterisation of co-packaged solutions for neuromorphicphotonic components to answer the project objectives. The successful candidate will work closely with establishedacademics and experienced microfabrication personnel.The project objectives completion is relying on the expertise ofthe IoP in the characterization and processing of optoelectronicdevices and photonic integrated circuits spanning over a decadeof international leading demonstrators both with academics andindustrial partners.

To be considered for the role, you will have a PhD in anappropriate discipline (ideally physics or engineering), significantrelevant research and technical experience in photonics,optoelectronic device microfabrication and characterisation. Youwill have experience in photonic design using python-basedlibraries (GDS-helpers, K-layout), in planning and organisingworkloads, including the ability to develop microfabricationprocesses and apply best practice, and you will have ademonstrated ability to be fully autonomous in employing a fullsuite of cleanroom equipment, including wire bonding and flipchip bonding. You will have experience in laser direct writingphotolithography systems. The role necessitates the ability toexecute electrical and optical devices characterisation withinphotonic laboratory and therefore requires the essentialunderstanding of optoelectronic devices.

Excellent interpersonal and communication skills, with the abilityto listen, engage and explain, and to present experimentalresults in an adequate way to partners, and stakeholders.The University welcomes applications from candidates across abroad range of backgrounds, recognising that diversitystrengthens our academic community and enriches our researchand teaching mission. As an employer committed to equality,diversity, and inclusion, we strive to cultivate a supportive andrespectful environment in which all colleagues can succeed. TheUniversity offers highquality working conditions, including flexibleworking arrangements where appropriate, to enable staff tobalance their professional commitments with personal and familyresponsibilities.

Extension of contract may be awarded to answer future industrialcontracts and other academic research projects.

Initial interviews have been scheduled for late September/ early October 2026.

For informal enquiries, please contactJavier Porte Parera, Senior Lecturer [e-mail]

Research Associate in Optoelectronic Devices and Photonic Integrated Circuits (845637)