Purpose of Role
A technologist position is available as part of an exciting EPSRC project aiming to establish an experimental satellite ground station facility. The post will be held within the Microwave and Antenna Engineering Group at Heriot-Watt University and will involve the development of wireless and satellite communication setups and demonstrators featuring entire RF front-ends as well as digital baseband. The selected candidate will work with other group as well as external industrial partners to plan, design, and implement a satellite ground terminal as well as run test campaigns using this facility.
Job Description
We are seeking candidates with a record that will demonstrate their capability to effectively deliver the required research activities.
You will have a practical knowledge and experience in the area of RF subsystems for satellite communications. You will be competent in microwave device and subsystem design, including RF PCB design and development. You will have a good understanding of the challenges emerging in the hardware implementation involve passive and active RF devices. You will also be prepared to work on interfacing optical, radio, digital and mechanical equipment to integrate fully functional satellite receivers.
The project will involve integration of equipment and subsystems towards wireless and satellite communication systems. You will be expected to have a strong practical understanding of electronic systems.
This opportunity therefore relates to high quality, self-motivated individuals with the ability to work and actively participate in developing advanced research in electromagnetics, microwave and antenna engineering and expanding the teaching knowledge base within the School’s Electrical, Electronic & Computer Engineering disciplines.
Key Duties and Responsibilities
1. To review, design, implement and test the microwave modules and integrate them for satellite ground station.
2. To undertake the development of RF subsystems.
3. To develop RF PCBs suitable for satellite systems.
4. To compile written reports and articles suitable for publication and contract fulfillment on the techniques, designs developed and results obtained.
5. Present regular progress reports on research to members of the research group or to external audiences to disseminate and publicise research findings.
6. Carry out any other duties designated by line manager and which fall within the general ambit of the post.
Please note that this job description is not exhaustive, and the role holder may be required to undertake other relevant duties commensurate with the grading of the post. Activities may be subject to amendment over time as the role develops and/or priorities and requirements evolve.
Education, Qualifications & Experience
Essential
7. HNC or equivalent in electronics.
8. Experience in the development of radio frequency subsystems such as Low Noise Blocks or Block Up-Converters
9. Experience in the development of RF Printed Circuit Boards
10. Good understanding of the challenges associated with RF and Microwave hardware implementation.
11. Practical experience of applying the specialist skills and techniques required for the role.
12. Effective communication, report preparation, time management to meet deadlines.
13. Flexibility to travel for meetings
14. Must be prepared to work as part of a team.
15. Ability to contribute to method improvement where required.
Desirable
16. BEng/MEng in Electronics
17. Experience with satellite communication subsystems.
18. Experience of collaborative research or working in a team.