Research Associate in Physics

Loughborough University; Loughborough; On-site; GBP 35,000 - 46,000; Full time

Job summary

A leading UK university in Loughborough is inviting applications for a Postdoctoral Research Associate to work on a project in spintronics and two-dimensional materials. The role includes conducting experimental research, leading fabrication efforts, and collaborating within a multidisciplinary team. Applicants should have a PhD and experience in device fabrication and programming. The position offers a salary ranging from £35,116 to £45,413.

Qualifications

• Ability to conduct experimental research in 2D quantum materials.
• Experience in cryogenic electrical and magnetic characterisation.

Responsibilities

• Conduct cutting-edge experimental research in 2D quantum materials and spin transport.
• Lead efforts in van der Waals heterostructure fabrication.
• Collaborate closely with a multidisciplinary team.

Skills

Device fabrication

AFM and SEM experience

Magneto-transport expertise

Programming in LabVIEW, Python, MATLAB, C++

Familiarity with micromagnetic simulations

Collaborative mindset

Education

PhD in physics, materials science, or electrical engineering

Job description

School of Science

We invite applications for a Postdoctoral Research Associate (PDRA) to join a research project in spintronics, two-dimensional (2D) materials and quantum transport. The successful candidate will contribute to the design, fabrication, and characterisation of novel spintronic devices using 2D van der Waals materials as part of the EPSRC-funded project “Symmetry-Demanded Spin Current Generation in Quantum Materials.”

This project aims to exploit reduced crystalline symmetry in two-dimensional materials to generate spin and orbital currents with unconventional spin-polarisation thereby enabling electrical manipulation of magnetic states without applied magnetic fields. This approach offers exciting prospects for next-generation, low-power magnetic memory and computing technologies.

What you will do

• Conduct cutting-edge experimental research in 2D quantum materials and spin transport
• Lead efforts in van der Waals heterostructure fabrication, cryogenic electrical and magnetic characterisation at low- temperature and high-magnetic fields
• Collaborate closely with a multidisciplinary team passionate about unlocking new physics and building transformative technologies

We’re looking for a motivated researcher who has completed (or is about to complete) a PhD in physics, materials science or electrical engineering, ideally with a background in condensed matter physics, magnetism, spintronics, or 2D material physics and their fabrication. In addition, we expect the candidate to have:

• Hands-on experience with device fabrication, AFM, SEM, magneto-transport, and related instrumentation
• Strong programming ability (e.g., LabVIEW, Python, MATLAB, C++)
• Familiarity with micromagnetic or Multiphysics simulations
• A collaborative mindset, with clear communication skills and a genuine enthusiasm for scientific discovery For more details or an informal chat, please contact Dr Fasil Dejene at [e-mail].

Applications:

The closing date for the receipt of applications is 30/09/2025. Interviews will be conducted on 15/10/2025. The position must start in 2025.

For more information refer to the Job Description and Person Specification.

£35,116 to £45,413. Specialist and Supporting Academic Research Grade 6. Subject to annual pay award.