Description

Research and Innovation Associate in Optical Network for AI

Aston Institute of Photonic Technologies

Location: Aston University Main Campus
Salary: £38,784 to £42,254 per annum
Grade: Grade 08
Contract Type: Fixed-Term (36 months)
Basis: Full-Time
Closing Date: 23.59 hours BST on Sunday 28 June 2026
Interview Date: Friday 10 July 2026
Reference: 0599-26

Applications are invited for a full-time Research and Innovation Associate at the Aston Institute of Photonic Technologies (AiPT), one of the largest photonics research centres in the UK. We are seeking a Research and Innovation Associate to work on an international research project that has been funded through EPSRC and Research Ireland with Irish and UK academic and industrial partners. This project aims to significantly reduce the energy consumption of data centre (including AI data centres) interconnection networks well into the XFLOP regime, through a combination of optical combs, tuneable lasers, and flexible architectural innovations.

You will join an established and collaborative team within the Aston Institute of Photonic Technologies, working under the guidance of Professor Andrew Ellis. The role involves carrying out research in purpose-built photonics facilities at Aston University. With the support of network-level simulations, you will contribute to the development of a network demonstration testbed optimised for tuneable laser-based switching. This will include the use of recirculating configurations to emulate large-scale networks exceeding 1,000 nodes. The role will also involve addressing integration challenges to enable appropriately buffered real-world data traces to be transmitted across the network, demonstrating the capabilities of optically routed interconnects.

Applicants should demonstrate a strong track record in at least three of the following: the use of fast tuneable lasers in high-capacity communication systems, the use of optical frequency combs to enhance performance of high-capacity communication systems, the development of recirculating loop-based optical communications testbeds, low-latency applications of FPGAs on a sub-ns timescale, and digital signal processing in high-capacity optical communications. An ability to learn new techniques quickly is highly desirable, and additional training will be given as needed.

Candidates with a highly relevant first degree or with relevant industrial experience will be considered for appointment at Grade 7 for a period of up to 36 months. Candidates with experience meriting a higher grade, such as a relevant PhD, are welcome to indicate a desire to be considered for appointment at Grade 8 for a period of up to 30 months. 

For informal enquiries about this position, you can contact Professor Andrew Ellis. 

Aston University is a vibrant campus located within Birmingham city centre, which has excellent transport links via bus or train.

- Excellent training and development opportunities.
- A generous annual leave scheme with 30 days' bookable leave and a further 13 days of bank holiday and University closure days.
- Everyday discounts on a number of activities and retailers.
- Great family-friendly policies.
- On-site gym and pool with discounted staff membership available.
- Further information on our Benefits and Rewards can be found on our website.

This role is likely to qualify for endorsement under the Endorsed Funder route of the Global Talent visa. This visa is for talented or promising individuals in academia or research in fields such as science, engineering, medicine, social sciences, or humanities.

See the Home Office guidance on the UK Government website.

The University celebrates the rights of freedom of speech and academic freedom, and is committed to maintaining and protecting these rights within the law. An offer to work at Aston University will never be denied on the basis of an individual’s lawful expression of their beliefs, ideas or opinions.

Aston University is an equal opportunities employer and welcomes applications from all sections of the community. It promotes equality and diversity in all aspects of its work. We strive to have robust inclusivity strategies in place to encourage colleagues to have the confidence and freedom to be themselves in the workplace. For more information, visit our website.

Guidance on AI-Assisted Applications

While we cannot prevent applicants from using AI tools to support their application, we ask that all submissions reflect your own experience, achievements, and motivations. We want to understand what you personally bring to the role, so please ensure your application represents your own voice and capabilities.

We recognise the value of flexible working. Please contact the recruiting manager to discuss what flexible working options are available for particular roles.

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