Location

Research Associate (Optical Coherence Tomography)

Location

Canterbury

Salary

£39,906 to £44,746 per annum, Grade 7

Opened on

2026-03-18

Closed on

2026-04-13

Are you an early-career researcher with expertise in optical imaging and a passion for advancing biomedical technologies? Join our Applied Optics Group and contribute to cutting-edge research shaping the future of optical coherence tomography (OCT).
We are seeking a Research Associate in Biomedical Optics to join the Applied Optics Group (AOG) at the University of Kent (full time and fixed term for 12 months). This role is part of the European Innovation Council-funded INTEGRAL project, focused on developing next-generation OCT systems using integrated photonics. You will play a key role in advancing high-speed, high-performance biomedical imaging technologies, working within a collaborative and internationally connected research environment. The role offers the opportunity to contribute to impactful research, publish findings and engage with leading academic and industry partners.
As a Research Associate you can expect to be involved in:
Conducting research to develop advanced OCT systems, focusing on signal processing and laser technologies
Analysing data and publishing findings in peer-reviewed journals and conferences
Collaborating with academic and industry partners to deliver project outcomes and support future research
Supporting the research environment, including mentoring students and ensuring compliance with research standards
What will you bring to the role?
A PhD (or equivalent) in Physics, Optics, Electrical Engineering or a closely related field, with experience in experimental research
Strong technical expertise in optical imaging, including OCT, lasers or related systems
Experience in scientific programming (e.g. MATLAB, Python, C++ or LabVIEW)
A collaborative and proactive approach, with strong communication skills and the ability to contribute to a dynamic research team
What we can offer in return:
As a member of our team, you can expect a friendly, open and collaborative working environment and support in your development and wellbeing. You'll enjoy a range of great staff benefits including:
Hybrid working options allowing a flexible blend of office and home working (to be agreed in line with business needs)
43 days' leave per year (personal leave, bank holidays and additional days allocated for the Christmas period, pro rata for part-time staff)
Excellent pension scheme with generous employer contributions
Corporate employee-funded healthcare plan, in partnership with Benenden Health
For more information about what you can look forward to if you join us, visit our dedicated webpage: Working at Kent
We are ambitious for our people, our communities and the region we serve – join us in making the world a better place. Visit our website for more on who we are: http://www.kent.ac.uk/about/
Please see the links below to view the full job description and to apply for this post. For further information regarding the application process, please contact peopleserviceshr@kent.ac.uk quoting reference number EMP-009-26.