Research Associate

Applications are invited for the role of Research Associate in the School of Physics, Centre for Device Thermography and Reliability (CDTR), to contribute to the design and physical understanding of next generation high frequency GaN RF devices for space applications. Current European RF GaN power processes are optimised for up to K band, however the efficiency is less than is required to meet future planned missions. In order to meet the need for operation up to W band with up to 20% improvement in efficiency, together with improvements in linearity, a step change in device architecture is required. The aim of this project is to undertake a simulation based study of options for future GaN technologies, and benchmark their potential performance. This will use a TCAD/compact modelling approach to benchmark these different approaches and determine their scalability and ability to meet the future space requirement. This project involves close collaboration with Chalmers University and the European Space Agency.

The CDTR group is active across many EU, US, and UK research programmes, and is funded by the UK Engineering and Physical Sciences Research Council (EPSRC), the Royal Academy of Engineering (RAEng), the US Department of Energy, US Defense Advanced Research Projects Agency, the European Space Agency and other funding agencies as well as by industry.

Applicants should have postgraduate (PhD) experience in physics, materials science or engineering, with a good publication record. The position requires expertise in TCAD device simulation, preferably Silvaco Atlas, and familiarity with RF and microwave devices. A willingness to work together with, and co- supervise, PhD students of the CDTR will be necessary.

The position has funding for 1 year in the first instance, but can be extended subsequently.

Informal enquiries (not applications) to Professor M Kuball, martin.kuball@bristol.ac.uk, tel +44(0)117 928 8734.

The University is committed to creating and sustaining a fully inclusive culture. We welcome applicants from all backgrounds and communities, especially from women and other groups currently under- represented in our department.