Research Fellow/Senior Research Fellow in Nanomaterials Engineering with AI

University of Southampton Malaysia; Southampton; On-site; GBP 32,000 - 46,000; Full time

Job summary

The University of Southampton Malaysia seeks a Research Fellow/Senior Research Fellow to enhance nanofabrication techniques with artificial intelligence. Ideal candidates will hold a PhD in Materials Science or Engineering, demonstrating collaborative skills and a commitment to innovative research in nanophotonics. The role offers a flexible working environment, considerable benefits, and aims to foster an inclusive community within a prestigious research center. Applications close at 11.59 pm GMT on the specified date.

Benefits

Generous holiday allowance

Access to Universities Superannuation Scheme (USS)

Subsidized health and fitness facilities

Qualifications

• Proven practical knowledge and expertise in experimental nanostructured materials research.
• Strong track record of research dissemination through peer-reviewed publications and conference presentations.

Responsibilities

• Develop novel, ‘artificially intelligent’ approaches to nanofabrication techniques.
• Improve the efficacy, efficiency, and reproducibility of focused ion beam nanofabrication processes for advanced photonic materials and devices.

Skills

Problem-solving skills

Self-motivation

Collaboration in multidisciplinary teams

Education

PhD or equivalent qualification in Materials Science/Engineering

Tools

Micro/nanofabrication tools

Materials characterization tools

Computational multi-physics/electromagnetics modelling

Machine learning algorithms

Experimental optics research

Job description

We are seeking an outstanding, creative researcher with the skills to develop novel, ‘artificially intelligent’ approaches to nanofabrication techniques. Our project, sponsored by the UK’s Engineering and Physical Sciences Research Council, aims to improve the efficacy, efficiency, and reproducibility of focused ion beam nanofabrication processes for advanced photonic materials and devices, enhancing their functionality, optical performance, and energy efficiency.

To Be Successful In This Role, You Will Have

• a PhD or equivalent qualification (or be nearing completion) in Materials Science/Engineering or a relevant field related to nanostructured materials;
• proven practical knowledge and expertise in experimental nanostructured materials research;
• strong problem-solving skills, self-motivation, and the ability to collaborate in multidisciplinary teams;
• a strong track record of research dissemination through peer-reviewed publications and conference presentations.

It will be advantageous, but not essential, to have recent experience in:

• micro/nanofabrication and materials characterization tools;
• computational multi-physics/electromagnetics modelling and/or machine learning algorithms;
• experimental optics/(nano)photonics research.

In this role, you will join an interdisciplinary research group at the Optoelectronics Research Centre (ORC), focusing on nanophotonics, nanostructured/nanomechanical (meta)materials, optical metrology, and deep learning applications in photonics.

The ORC holds an Athena Swan Bronze Award, supporting the advancement of women in science. Our diverse community includes over 49 nationalities, and we offer initiatives like mentoring schemes, an Early Career Researchers Forum, and the Women in Optics group. We provide flexible, hybrid, and part-time working arrangements.

We offer a world-class research environment with benefits such as a generous holiday allowance, access to the Universities Superannuation Scheme (USS), and subsidized health and fitness facilities.

This is a full-time fixed-term position for up to 3 years from October 2025.

The position is available at the level of Research Fellow or Senior Research Fellow, depending on experience. For Senior Research Fellow consideration, candidates should have several years of postdoctoral experience, including project management, supervision, and contribution to research funding proposals. Candidates working towards a relevant PhD are eligible for the Research Fellow role, with the title of Research Fellow awarded upon completion, and the title of Senior Research Assistant prior to qualification.

For informal enquiries, contact Prof Kevin MacDonald at [e-mail].

Further details and application links are available on our website. We are committed to creating an inclusive environment that supports diversity, respect, and equality of opportunity, offering flexible working arrangements.

Apply by 11.59 pm GMT on the closing date. For assistance, contact Recruitment at [phone] or [e-mail], quoting the job number.