Technical Specialist (Quantum Materials and Device Characterisation)

We are seeking an enthusiastic and proactive individual to join our team as a Technical Specialist (Quantum Materials and Device Characterisation) within the Faculty of Science and Engineering, based at the Photon Science Institute. This role offers an exciting opportunity to provide high‑level technical expertise supporting world‑leading research in quantum materials and quantum device characterisation.

This is a full‑time (35 hours per week), permanent role. Due to the in‑person requirements of the post, hybrid working is not feasible.

You will work as part of a dynamic technical operations team, delivering specialist support for advanced experimental facilities, with a particular focus on low‑temperature cryogenic systems and high‑frequency RF/microwave characterisation.

You will be responsible for:

• Operating and maintaining a low‑temperature (<20 mK) dilution refrigerator for quantum device characterisation
• Designing, assembling and operating advanced RF/microwave control and measurement systems (up to 40 GHz)
• Supporting complementary low‑temperature photonic characterisation capabilities
• Providing expert advice, training and technical support to staff, students and external users
• Ensuring excellent service delivery, health and safety compliance and continuous improvement within your area of specialism

We welcome candidates who bring diverse perspectives, experiences, and approaches to their work.

About You
We encourage applications from individuals with a wide range of backgrounds and experiences. You should demonstrate:

Essential Criteria :

• Experience operating low‑temperature cryogenic systems (<20 mK)
• Experience with RF/microwave control and measurement
• Experience in electronic characterisation of semiconductor devices
• Ability to write software for equipment control and data acquisition
• Excellent communication, organisational and problem‑solving skills, with the ability to work independently and collaboratively

Desirable Criteria :

• Experience characterising qubit devices
• Experience with high‑frequency RF/microwave electronics (up to 40 GHz)
• Experience in semiconductor device design and fabrication
• Experience leading or supervising technical staff
• Experience managing projects, budgets or equipment installations

We value technical excellence, adaptability and a strong service‑focused mindset as much as formal qualifications.

Our benefits include:
• Generous employer pension contribution
• 29 days annual leave plus bank holidays, along with Christmas closure
• Access to extensive professional development and world‑class research infrastructure

For more information, please see
https://www.manchester.ac.uk/connect/jobs/benefits-working-here/.
You can also find information on Flexible and Hybrid working here:
https://www.staffnet.manchester.ac.uk/people/current-staff/flexible-and-hybrid-working/.

We are an open place of enquiry and challenge. We embrace and celebrate difference, diversity and debate, and we pride ourselves on being a place of education, learning and community. Find out more from our Freedom of Speech Policy:
https://www.staffnet.manchester.ac.uk/news/display/?id=32905.

Enquiries about the role, shortlisting and interviews
Name: Professor Richard Curry / Dr Maddison Coke
Email Address: richard.curry@manchester.ac.uk / maddison.coke@manchester.ac.uk

General enquiries and administrative support
recruitmentservices.people@manchester.ac.uk

Technical and job portal support
https://jobseekersupport.jobtrain.co.uk/support/home

Applications close at midnight on the closing date.
Further particulars (with person specification) linked below.