Post-Doctoral Research Assistant in Novel Semiconductor Synthesis and Characterisation

Contract type: Fixed-term from time of appointment until 30/09/2028

Applications are invited for a Postdoctoral Research Assistant with expertise in the synthesis and characterisation of novel semiconductor materials.

Department

The University of Oxford is a stimulating work environment, which enjoys an international reputation as a world-class centre of excellence. Our research plays a key role in tackling many global challenges, from reducing our carbon emissions to developing vaccines during a pandemic.

What We Offer

As an employer, we genuinely care about our employees’ wellbeing and this is reflected in the range of benefits that we offer including:

• An excellent contributory pension scheme
• 38 days annual leave
• A comprehensive range of childcare services
• Family leave schemes
• Cycle loan scheme
• Discounted bus travel and Season Ticket travel loans
• Membership to a variety of social and sports clubs

About the Role 

This project is associated with an exciting new EPSRC/UKRI-funded Programme Grant entitled “Advanced Device Concepts for Next-Generation Photovoltaics.”

This collaborative project between Oxford Physics, Materials and Chemistry and Liverpool Chemistry brings together expertise in photovoltaic materials synthesis and device fabrication, advanced characterisation and modelling.

The ambition for this project is to carry out multidisciplinary research, via inter-linked work streams, that will explore and conceive four new photovoltaic device concepts and paradigms, enabling the next major step-change in photovoltaic efficiency. New device architectures, concentrator PV, quantum cutting, hot-carrier collection and photon transport will be explored and enabled by absorber materials based on metal-halide perovskites, silicon, and novel low-band-gap chalcogenide-halide semiconductors, supported by fundamental experimental characterisation and materials modelling.

About You

Applicants should possess or be close to obtaining a PhD in physics, chemistry, materials science or engineering. They should be highly versed in materials synthesis and characterisation, and thin-film deposition techniques.

Knowledge of semiconductor physics and a track record of working with next-generation novel materials for light-harvesting is essential.

Applicants should be highly motivated and have excellent skills in working collaboratively as part of a team. A good track record of high-quality publications is essential. Having the ability to direct your own research and interpret your results independently is a must. The University of Oxford and the Department of Physics offer an inclusive and diverse environment and workplace. We strongly encourage applications from all backgrounds and genders to apply.

Application Process

You will be required to upload a brief statement of research interests, CV and details of two referees as part of your online application (via the 'Apply' button above). 

The closing date for applications is 5th October 2026. 

Enquiries about the role may be directed to Prof. Nakita K. Noel or recruitment@physics.ox.ac.uk.

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