Research Associate, Research Scientist, Research Assistant​/Associate

School/Department:
Electrical & Electronic Engineering

Work Arrangement:
Full Time (On site)

Contract Type:
Fixed-term

Closing Date: 04/10/2026

The University of Sheffield is a remarkable place to work. Our people are at the heart of everything we do. Their diverse backgrounds, abilities and beliefs make Sheffield a world-class university.

We offer a fantastic range of benefits including a highly competitive annual leave entitlement (with the ability to purchase more), a generous pensions scheme, flexible working opportunities, a commitment to your development and wellbeing, a wide range of retail discounts, and much more. Find out more about our benefits (opens in a new window) and join us to become part of something special.

Overview

The post provides an exciting opportunity to carry out high-quality research in the field of avalanche photodiodes, in collaboration with UK industry partners. Based in the School of Electrical and Electronic Engineering at the University of Sheffield, the Research Associate will carry out research into avalanche diodes as part of an EPSRC project.

Working closely with another Research Associate of the same project, the post-holder will be responsible for device fabrication and characterisation of near-infrared avalanche diodes based on III-V semiconductor materials for the project.

In addition to carrying out the research required by the project, the role will involve preparation of technical reports for the consortium or funder. The post-holder will also assist in preparing documents/presentations/demonstrations for wider disseminations and training PhD students in the research group on device fabrication and characterisation.

Main duties and responsibilities

• Conduct internationally recognised research in photodiodes based on III-V semiconductor materials.
• Carry out device fabrication and characterisation of avalanche photodiodes, modifying and optimising the procedures as required.
• Work closely with other staff and student members in the research group to maximise progress of the research.
• Maintain a systematic record of scientific outcomes and write supporting documents to contribute to and support the work of the research group such as project reports and deliverables.
• Communicate and report regularly in a highly professional manner to a range of stakeholders, including project partners and funders.
• Contribute to the training and supervision of students within the research group.
• Carry out project-oriented roles, such as planning and managing resources as well as reporting.
• Publish research results in high-quality journals.
• In conjunction with other colleagues in the School, contribute to the overall support and management of the photodiodes characterisation facilities in the research group, including but not limited to capability development, Health and Safety management, repairs and maintenance management, upgrades and quality control.
• Carry out other duties, commensurate with the grade and remit of the post

Person Specification

Our diverse community of staff and students recognises the unique abilities, backgrounds, and beliefs of all. We foster a culture where everyone feels they belong and is respected. Even if your past experience doesn't match perfectly with this role's criteria, your contribution is valuable, and we encourage you to apply. Please ensure that you reference the application criteria in the application statement when you apply.

Criteria

Stage(s) assessed at

Hold or be close to completing a PhD in infrared avalanche photodiodes based on III-V semiconductor materials (or have equivalent experience)

Application

Experience of device fabrication of III-V avalanche photodiodes

Application/Interview

Experience of using and developing electrical and optical…