Postdoctoral Research Associate/Fellow
Join the SPECTROMETA project to develop advanced mid-infrared sensing technologies using metamaterials.
Best for:Best for researchers with expertise in photonics, metamaterials, or nanofabrication looking to apply these skills to environmental sensing.
Overview
The University of Exeter is seeking a Postdoctoral Research Associate or Fellow to join the Williams Lab within the Faculty of Environment, Science and Economy. This EPSRC-funded position focuses on the SPECTROMETA project, which aims to identify and quantify environmental substances in air and water using metamaterial emitters and photoacoustic detection. The successful candidate will lead the development and testing of these devices, integrating nanofabrication, photonic modelling, and experimental sensing. You will work in a collaborative environment, utilizing the Savchenko Centre for Nanoscience and collaborating with external partners like The Met Office and South West Water.
What you'll do
- Lead the development and testing of metamaterial emitters and resonant acoustic cavities.
- Perform photonic modelling using tools such as FDTD, FEM, or RCWA.
- Conduct nanofabrication and device evaluation within the Savchenko Centre for Nanoscience.
- Build and test custom electro-optic systems for sensing performance.
- Explore AI-assisted inverse design for metamaterial optimization.
- Lead the preparation and submission of research publications.
- Collaborate with external partners including The Met Office and South West Water.
- Supervise junior researchers and contribute to team leadership (Fellow level).
Requirements
Degree required: PhD in physics, photonics, engineering, or a related discipline.
Language: English
Instruction: English
Publications: Demonstrated record of relevant research outputs such as publications and conference proceedings.
- Proven expertise in at least one relevant area such as mid-infrared sensing, metamaterials, or instrumentation development.
- Experience with photonic modelling software (e.g., Ansys Lumerical, COMSOL, FlexCompute).
- Proficiency in micro- and nanofabrication techniques (e.g., electron-beam lithography, RIE, PVD).
- Experience with device characterization methods (e.g., AFM, SEM, FTIR microscopy).
- Demonstrated ability to conduct independent research and produce high-quality research outputs.
- Must hold or be nearing completion of a PhD in a relevant field.
Funding & terms
How to apply
Deadline: 2026-12-06
Applications must be submitted through the University of Exeter's online careers portal. Ensure all required documentation is uploaded as specified in the job description.
- CV
- Cover letter
Contact
Calum Williams· Principal Investigator
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