Research Scientist in Single-Photon Detectors

Toshiba EMEA; Cambridge; On-site; GBP 60,000 - 85,000; Full time

Job summary

Toshiba Europe Ltd is seeking a Research Scientist to advance development of next-generation SPAD detectors. You will research, develop, and characterize InGaAs/InP SPADs with high sensitivity around 1550 nm in the C-band, combining fundamental and applied work.

The role requires strong knowledge of light-matter interactions, single-photon detection, and high-speed electronics, with emphasis on experimental design and collaboration with partners.

Qualifications

• PhD in Physics, Electrical Engineering, or a related field.
• Hands-on research experience with avalanche photodiodes, SPADs, or related semiconductor photonic devices.
• Strong publication record demonstrating scientific impact and technical expertise.
• Experience performing RF measurements and characterization.
• Practical experience designing, assembling, and operating complex experimental setups.
• Proficiency in scientific programming using Python and/or LabVIEW.

Responsibilities

• Characterize and evaluate the performance of SPAD sensors and systems.
• Specify, procure, and integrate optical, electronic, and mechanical components for experimental platforms.
• Design, build, optimize, and maintain high-performance experimental setups.
• Develop software for experimental control, automation, and data acquisition.
• Collaborate with academic and industrial partners on research projects.
• Disseminate research outcomes through publications, conferences, and reports.
• Contribute to a collaborative, multidisciplinary research environment.

Skills

Hands-on research experience

Strong publication record

RF measurements

Experiment design and assembly

Education

PhD in Physics or Electrical Engineering

Tools

Python

LabVIEW

Job description

Toshiba Europe Ltd have been at the forefront of research in quantum technology, particularly quantum communications and semiconductor quantum devices for the past two decades. During this time, our researchers have delivered numerous world-first achievements, including the development of the first single-photon and entangled-photon LEDs, and the first GHz-operated 1550 nm single-photon avalanche diodes (SPADs).

We are seeking a talented and highly motivated Research Scientist to join our team and contribute to the development of next-generation SPAD detectors. The successful candidate will research, develop, and characterize InGaAs/InP SPADs with high sensitivity in the telecommunications C-band around 1550 nm. The role combines fundamental and applied research, requiring a strong understanding of light-matter interaction, single-photon detection, and high-speed electronics.

Responsibilities:

• Characterize and evaluate the performance of SPAD sensors and associated systems.
• Specify, procure, and integrate optical, electronic, and mechanical components for experimental platforms.
• Design, build, optimize, and maintain high-performance experimental setups.
• Develop software for experimental control, automation, and data acquisition.
• Collaborate with academic and industrial partners on collaborative research projects.
• Disseminate research outcomes through high-impact scientific publications, conference presentations, and technical reports.
• Contribute to a collaborative, multidisciplinary research environment.

Essential requirements:

• PhD in Physics, Electrical Engineering, or a related discipline.
• Proven hands‑on research experience with avalanche photodiodes, SPADs, or related semiconductor photonic devices.
• Strong publication record demonstrating scientific impact and technical expertise.
• Experience performing RF measurements and characterization.
• Practical experience designing, assembling, and operating complex experimental setups.
• Proficiency in scientific programming and lab automation using tools such as Python and/or LabVIEW.

Desirable requirements:

• Experience in electronic circuit design, assembly, and testing.
• Familiarity with capacitance‑voltage (C‑V) characterization techniques.
• Experience of semiconductor device fabrication and cleanroom processes.
• Experience with optical imaging, microscopy, spectroscopy, and fiber optic systems.
• Knowledge of quantum communications or quantum sensing technologies.