Overview
Postgraduate / Graduate Research Assistant – KP Technology Ltd, Wick, Caithness
New Product Development, Physics
Temporary – 1 year, with potential to become permanent
Salary: £26,000 – £40,000 depending on qualifications and experience
Company Overview
KP Technology Ltd, based in Wick, in a region of outstanding natural beauty, is an award-winning R&D company providing patented research tools and materials consultancy services for Industrial and Academic research laboratories. We specialise in the manufacture of cutting-edge macroscopic Kelvin Probe and Air Photoemission Spectroscopy systems, empowering research across diverse sectors: solar energy, nanotechnology, traditional and organic semiconductors, perovskites, devices, displays, metals and alloys. Our research solutions are trusted globally by clients such as NASA, ESA, CNSA, Samsung, Sony, Infineon, Qcells, First Solar, MIT, Stanford University, Berkeley University. KP Technology products are used extensively in the materials characterisation, specifically in analysing energy levels of organic devices, including novel solar cells. Our clients publish over 150 research articles annually.
Location
Caithness enjoys a modern yet idyllic lifestyle. Good housing, education, and healthcare are matched by fantastic leisure, culture and lifestyle opportunities.
Close to spectacular coastline, wild beaches and amazing wildlife, the area is one of contrasts – from living in the heart of a town or village to the community spirit of country living. Stunning coastal locations and wide-open spaces can provide a sense of peace and tranquillity which belies the closeness of essential amenities.
If you enjoy adventurous outdoor pursuits in extraordinary natural environments, the coast and highlands around Caithness offer an ideal location.
Kayaking, surfing, diving, sailing, walking trails, hiking, camping, fishing and cycling routes are all within easy reach of our facility in Wick. If you enjoy drone flying, wildlife or landscape photography, some of the most spectacular vistas in the world are directly on your doorstep.
Job Details
You will work on cutting-edge instrumentation projects involving new opto-electronics products, exploring basic surface phenomena using tuneable Deep Ultra-Violet light. This includes designing, characterising and optimising a Photoemission Electron Microscope (PEEM). Verifying performance, via test measurements on client samples. Useful skills include experience in optics, semiconductors, electronics, programming, data modelling and research. The position will require an aptitude in experimental skills coupled with strong reporting/communication.
The candidate will be supported by in-house specialists in electronics, software development, instrumentation. Research equipment and analysis/characterisation systems are available. Training will be provided by the project supervisor, Prof Iain Baikie, CEO.
This position is ideal for candidates passionate about developing or enhancing their skills in experimental physics and instrumentation, with a strong interest in research. Applicants with postgraduate experience in experimental physics and hands-on experimental skills are preferred. Recent graduates keen on equipment development and research applications and individuals with relevant complementary experience will also be considered. Candidates should possess a 1st class or upper second-class (2:1) first degree, or a Ph.D./MSc obtained within the last four years. Initially offered for one year, this role has the potential to become permanent based on performance, with opportunities to progress into a managerial role.
Benefits
- £26,000 – £40,000 depending on qualifications and experience.
- One year’s gym membership at a well-equipped sports facility comprising swimming pool, sauna, steam-room, football and badminton courts.
- First month’s accommodation paid by KP Technology Ltd.
- Attendance at a national conference to maintain CPD.
Applications and Enquiries
Informal enquiries and applications, including your CV and a covering letter explaining why you would like this role and detailing any relevant experience should be directed to Prof. Iain Baikie, Director, KP Technology Ltd: iain@kelvinprobe.com.
Closing Date
This is a rolling application
