0366-26 - Research Associate

Aston Institute of Photonic Technologies

Location: Aston University Main Campus

Salary: £38,784 to £41,064 per annum

Grade: Grade 08

Contract Type: Fixed Term (30/09/2028)

Basis: Full Time

Closing Date: 23.59 hours BST on Sunday 12 April 2026

Interview Date: To be confirmed

Reference: 0366-26

Release Date: Thursday 12 March 2026 We are seeking a Research Associate to join in the Aston Institute of Photonic Technologies (AiPT) one of the world’s leading photonics research centres. AiPT comprises a vibrant team of researchers guided by world-leading academics with strong industry expertise and experience. AiPT cultivates an environment where academics, post-doctoral researchers and students cooperate to overcome major scientific challenges in a welcoming and collegial atmosphere. Our successful track record of scientific achievements ranges from nanophotonics, nonlinear photonics, and fibre lasers to medical lasers and bio-sensing for healthcare and the high-speed optical communications technology that underpins the internet and the digital economy.

Recent scientific research has revealed that the next generation of a range of key photonic microdevices poised to transform computing, communications, and sensing must be fabricated with unprecedented picometre precision (a hundred times smaller than an atomic diameter). Achieving such extraordinary control represents one of the most exciting scientific and technological challenges of our time.

We are seeking highly motivated researchers to join the development of Surface Nanoscale Axial Photonics (SNAP), a pioneering platform that enables this remarkable level of fabrication accuracy. SNAP has already demonstrated record-breaking precision and opens entirely new directions in microresonator physics, ultra-low-loss photonics, and nanoscale light control.

What You Will Work On

As part of this project, you will contribute to:

• Experimental development of picometre-precision fabrication techniques for miniature optical devices formed directly on the surface of optical fibres
• Theoretical modelling of nanoscale photonic phenomena, including light confinement, resonant interactions, and ultra-high-Q microresonators
• Exploration of novel device concepts with potential impact on optical signal processing, quantum technologies, and next-generation communication systems

Why Join Us?

• Work at the cutting edge of nanoscale photonics
• Contribute to a technology with transformative potential
• Combine fundamental physics with real-world device development
• Be part of an ambitious, internationally recognised research effort and research institute AiPT.

This position offers an opportunity to shape the future of precision photonic fabrication and to contribute to technologies that may redefine how light is controlled on the nanoscale.

For informal enquiries about this position, you can contact Professor Misha Sumetsky, m.sumetskyaston.ac.uk

This role is likely to qualify for endorsement under the Endorsed Funder route of the Global Talent visa. This visa is for talented or promising individuals in academia or research in fields such as science, engineering, medicine, social sciences, or humanities.

See the Home Office guidance: ?url=https%3A%2F%2Fwww.gov.uk%2Fglobal-talent&module=jobs&id=304135" target="_blank" rel="nofollow">?url=https%3A%2F%2Fwww.gov.uk%2Fglobal-talent&module=jobs&id=304135" target="_blank" rel="nofollow">https://www.gov.uk/­global-talent

Further details:
Job Details University Information Email details to a friend The University celebrates the rights of freedom of speech and academic freedom and is committed to maintaining and protecting these rights within the law. An offer to work at Aston University will never be denied on the basis of an individual’s lawful expression of their beliefs, ideas or opinions.

Aston University is an equal opportunities employer and welcomes applications from all sections of the community. It promotes equality and diversity in all aspects of its work. We strive to have robust inclusivity strategies in place, to encourage colleagues to have the confidence and freedom to be themselves in the workplace. For more information, visit: ?url=https%3A%2F%2Fwww2.aston.ac.uk%2Fabout%2Finclusive-aston&module=jobs&id=304135" target="_blank" rel="nofollow">?url=https%3A%2F%2Fwww2.aston.ac.uk%2Fabout%2Finclusive-aston&module=jobs&id=304135" target="_blank" rel="nofollow">https://www2.aston.ac.uk/about/­inclusive-aston

Guidance on AI-Assisted Applications
While we cannot prevent applicants from using AI tools to support their application, we ask that all submissions reflect your own experience, achievements, and motivations. We want to understand what you personally bring to the role, so please ensure your application represents your own voice and capabilities.

We recognise the value of flexible working. Please contact the recruiting manager to discuss what flexible working options are available for particular roles.

If you require the job details document or an application form in an alternative format please contact the recruitment team at recruitmentaston.ac.uk

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