Knowledge Transfer Partnership (KTP) Associate – Photonic Sensing for Sub-Sea Telecommunications

This KTP project aims to develop innovative monitoring technology for sub-sea telecommunications networks using advanced photonic sensing. The goal is to maintain cable integrity and detect damage or intrusion from accidental or hostile activity, such as unmanned vehicles or dragging anchors.

The key innovation involves distributed optical sensing capable of operating over sub-sea links exceeding 1,000 km.

Candidate Profile

• PhD in Photonics/Optics (or Physics with photonics experience).
• BSc or MSc in Physics, Electronic Engineering, or a related discipline.

Essential Skills and Experience

• Strong analytical and problem-solving abilities in photonic/optic-based systems.
• Practical laboratory experience using optical test and measurement equipment.
• Excellent communication, management, and teamwork skills.

Desirable Skills

• Experience in optical system design, testing, and laser safety.
• Knowledge of interferometric fibre sensors.
• Familiarity with FPGA-based systems and signal processing.
• Proven ability to work independently and collaboratively.

Main Responsibilities

• Lead the KTP project, taking ownership of objectives and timelines.
• Design, fabricate, and optimise novel optical sensing systems for subsea applications.
• Apply expertise in optical device manufacture, sensing technologies, and high-speed signal processing.
• Liaise effectively with academic, industrial, and supplier partners to deliver project milestones.

Personal Attributes

• Strong interpersonal and presentation skills.
• Capable of working effectively within a cross-disciplinary team.
• Demonstrated leadership, self-organisation, and time management.
• Industrially focused, motivated, and adaptable.
• Innovative thinker with a proactive approach to research and problem-solving.

Support and Benefits

• Up to £5,000 for personal and professional development during the project.
• 25 days of annual leave.
• Access to professional mentorship and wellbeing support (Aston Wellbeing).

Career Prospects
Approximately 60% of KTP Associates are offered employment by the host company upon project completion.

About the KTP
This partnership is funded by Xtera Topco and Innovate UK. Understanding the KTP framework and the Associate’s role is essential. Further information: www.aston.ac.uk/ktp.

The Company – Xtera Topco
Xtera Topco is a global leader in underwater telecommunication systems, ranked among the top five providers worldwide. Their high-bandwidth cables form the backbone of international internet and telecommunication infrastructure, serving PTTs (Post, Telegraph and Telephone authorities) and ISPs.
Website: https://xtera.com/

The University – Aston University
You will collaborate with Prof. Kate Sugden and Prof. David Webb from Aston University, working closely with Xtera’s Senior Management Team and an Innovate UK Knowledge Transfer Adviser.

Location
Based primarily at Xtera Topco in Essex, with access to research facilities at Aston University, Birmingham. Some travel between sites and to client locations may be required. Candidates should live within a reasonable commuting distance.

Enquiries
For informal enquiries, contact Prof. David Webb at d.j.webb@aston.ac.uk.

Equality and Inclusion
Aston University is committed to the principles of the Athena SWAN Charter (link), fostering a friendly, inclusive, and collaborative working environment.

As a Disability Confident Employer, Aston University guarantees interviews for all disabled applicants who meet the minimum criteria.

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