Overview
Role: Research Assistant in Ultrashort Pulse Laser Welding of Glass
Directorate: School of Engineering & Physical Sciences
Grade: Grade 6 - £31,236 - £36,636
Contract Type: Full Time (1FTE), Fixed Term (3 Months)
Rewards and Benefits: 33 days annual leave, plus 9 buildings closed days (and Christmas Eve when it falls on a weekday) for all full time staff. Use our total rewards calculator to see the value of benefits provided by Heriot-Watt University.
Responsibilities
* We are looking for creative and highly motivated researchers willing to work as part of a team. Good communication skills and an appropriate publication record are essential.
* General tasks will involve scientific research; analysis and interpretation of data; communication with other investigators involved in this collaborative project; presentation of research at partnership workshops and meetings.
* The successful candidate will contribute to experimental design and procedure as part of a collaborative decision-making process, while taking responsibility for implementing experiments and data analysis.
* Responsibilities will also include assistance in the day-to-day maintenance of the experimental facilities, liaising with external collaborators; assisting in the development of student research skills.
Project Context
The Research Assistant will work on developing and demonstrating ultra-short pulse laser processing of glass, specifically fused silica with the potential for other high performance glasses. This is part of an impact accelerator project with a UK-based industrial partner. The aim is to investigate ultra-short pulse laser processing using modified Bessel-beams and selective etching, determine suitable laser parameters for the desired glass manufacturing process, and produce a prototype device for the industrial partner. The project is in close collaboration with our industrial partner as well as a PDRA and a team of academic supervisors.
Research Environment
They will work directly with Dr. Richard Carter (project co-lead), Dr Calum Ross (project co-lead), Prof M J Daniel Esser, Prof Duncan Hand, and Dr Adrian Dzipalski. The majority of the work will be carried out within the Precision Laser Application Labs at the National Robotarium, with some work in the Photonic Instrumentation Group or the Laser Device Physics and Engineering Group.
Qualifications
Education, Qualifications And Experience
Essential Criteria
* A First Class Bachelors of Engineering or Physics.
Skills & Experience - Essential Criteria
* Experience with relevant laser-based materials processing.
* Demonstrating strong experimental skills.
* Experience in contributing to the writing of scientific papers.
* Understand and adhere to information security practices particularly as it relates to personal and commercially sensitive information.
* Energy and enthusiasm for the project.
Desirable Criteria
* An Engineering Doctorate or PhD covering several of these areas: laser-based materials processing with high power / ultra-short-pulse lasers; optical or laser system design and development; system engineering principles and processes; CAD & Modelling.
* Previous experience in a laser applications research environment.
* Experience with topics relevant to the project, including ultra-fast-laser-welding of optical laser components to structural components; testing methods for evaluating optical and mechanical parts under thermal and environmental conditions; laser system setup and maintenance for laser-based materials processing.
Demonstration of / Proof of Ability To
* Lead authorship of experimental development reports / publications.
* Lead a project and maintain focus on the project aims.
* Implement rigorous engineering processes / scientific method.
* Exploit innovative technology concepts and emerging manufacturing technologies; skills in working with manufacturers and suppliers; collaborating with senior and junior research team members.
* Establish a close working relationship with the main points of contact in the company.
* Lead the writing of scientific papers.
Nationality, Residency & Place of Work
This is a campus-based role that is not suitable for remote working. You must be able to work on experiments at Heriot-Watt in Edinburgh and participate in face-to-face meetings and workshops with collaborators. The appointment is in partnership with Leonardo and requires eligibility for UK Security Clearance. For applicants outside the UK, an ATAS certificate may be required. CAH3 code: CAH07-04-01 or CAH10-01-01.
Travel
Local travel to technical and review meetings with partners, the University of Edinburgh and Leonardo on their sites in Edinburgh. Longer periods at these sites may be required. An annual national conference (2-3 days within the UK) and at least one international conference (~1 week) are also expected.
About Heriot-Watt
Heriot-Watt University is a leading institution for laser research and its applications in manufacturing and defence. The High Power Laser Applications (HPLA) group and the Laser Device Physics & Engineering group conduct cutting-edge research in laser sources and laser-based manufacturing. The School of Engineering & Physical Sciences has a strong international reputation and close industrial connections. The university champions equality and diversity and supports flexible working options.
How to Apply
Please submit via the Heriot-Watt online recruitment system: (1) Cover letter describing interest and suitability for the post; (2) Full CV. Applications can be submitted until midnight on Monday 8th September 2025. For further information and an informal discussion, contact Dr Richard Carter via email: r.m.carter@hw.ac.uk
Equal Opportunity
Heriot-Watt University is committed to equality of opportunity in employment and to creating an environment where individuals are treated on merit alone. We welcome applications from all sectors of society and offer flexible working patterns where possible.
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