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Overview
This EPSRC-NSF funded project is a collaboration between the Universities of Bristol, Notre Dame and Sheffield. It aims to investigate proof-of-concept techniques for the design of contiguous mode power amplifiers with high linearity and efficiency suitable at up to 40 GHz and above based on an experimental device technology being developed at the University of Notre Dame. You will be responsible for a large signal model (or equivalent load pull) at up to second harmonic frequency and most importantly the design of harmonically terminated broadband amplifiers. You will have expertise in RF Power Amplifier/MMIC design, modelling using ADS/EM simulations, large signal modelling, high frequency characterisation and parasitic network extraction, prototyping including layout and testing, as well as reliability at the amplifier level.
You will be expected to travel to partner organisations or collaborators as necessary. You will be required to be involved in other projects involving design/ communications within the team and publish in top quality journals, consistent with the quality and ambition of the School.
Main duties and responsibilities
- Develop large signal models and Process Development Kit (PDK) from prototype devices fabricated by partners.
- Undertake the design and prototyping of contiguous mode RFPAs at up to 40 GHz and beyond using the large signal model you have extracted.
- Undertake testing, characterisation of fabricated MMICs including the reliability performance of the product.
- Have experience in modelling software and data analysis tools such as MATLAB, Origin, ADS.
- Liaise with industrial and academic partners and other PhD students and post-doctoral researchers.
- Work across projects as necessary.
- Participate actively in public engagement activities to encourage other young people into this field.
- Produce technical reports and conference/journal papers in a timely manner.
- Assist with the writing and preparation of research proposals.
- Maintain a systematic record of scientific outcomes.
- Plan own research schedule and workload to ensure that the overall project milestones and objectives are met in a timely fashion. Work across projects as required.
- Plan and prepare in advance for patents, publications and conference presentations.
- Provide support for undergraduate and postgraduate projects and PhD students.
- Support the maintenance and upkeep of the laboratory equipment and Health and Safety procedures for all work undertaken in the project.
- Carry out other duties, commensurate with the grade and remit of the post.
Person Specification
Our diverse community of staff and students recognises the unique abilities, backgrounds, and beliefs of all. We foster a culture where everyone feels they belong and is respected. Even if your past experience doesn't match perfectly with this role's criteria, your contribution is valuable, and we encourage you to apply. Please ensure that you reference the application criteria in the application statement when you apply.
Essential criteria
- Hold or be close to completing a relevant PhD in electronics/communications engineering (or have equivalent experience) (assessed at application)
- Strong background in RF power amplifier and MMIC design including modelling, characterisation, prototyping, and testing (assessed at application and interview)
- Strong background in broadband matching networks (assessed at application and interview)
- Experience in ADS and matlab (assessed at application, interview, and presentation).
- Experience and skills in characterisation of reliability, linearity, and gain/efficiency/output power (assessed at application and interview)
- Experience of publishing in peer-reviewed journals (assessed at application)
- Excellent written and verbal communication skills, including experience writing publications/reports and presenting your findings to a range of audiences. (assessed at application, interview, and presentation)
- Ability to work effectively within a team environment including individuals both internal and external to the University (assessed at application and interview)
- Ability to plan own workload and prioritise conflicting deadlines. (assessed at application and interview)
- Ability to work against deadlines.
- Ability to make decisions and apply creative approaches to solving complex technical problems (assessed at application, interview, and presentation).
Desirable criteria
- Experience in Contiguous mode harmonically terminated amplifiers.(assessed at application and interview)
- Experience in undergraduate/postgraduate supervision and contributing to teaching. (assessed at application)
Further Information
Grade: 7
Duration: fixed term until 30 June 2026 (with potential for a 6 month extension)
Line manager: Professor Merlyne de Souza
For informal enquiries about this job contact Professor Merlyne de Souza on m.desouza@sheffield.ac.uk
Next steps in the recruitment process
It is anticipated that the selection process will take place in the weeks following the closing date. We plan to let candidates know if they have progressed to the selection stage within two weeks of the closing date. If you are shortlisted for interview and require reasonable adjustments please contact eee-postaward@sheffield.ac.uk .
Our vision and strategic plan
We are the University of Sheffield. This is our vision: sheffield.ac.uk/vision (opens in new window).
What we offer
- A minimum of 41 days annual leave including bank holiday and closure days (pro rata) with the ability to purchase more.
- Flexible working opportunities, including hybrid working for some roles.
- Generous pension scheme.
- A wide range of discounts and rewards on shopping, eating out and travel.
- A variety of staff networks, providing opportunities for social interaction, peer support and personal development (for example, Race Equality, LGBT+, Women's and Parent's networks).
- Recognition Awards to reward staff who go above and beyond in their role.
- A commitment to your development access to learning and mentoring schemes; integrated with our Academic Career Pathways.
- A range of generous family-friendly policies
- paid time off for parenting and caring emergencies
- support for those going through the menopause
- paid time off and support for fertility treatment
- and more
More details can be found on our benefits page: sheffield.ac.uk/jobs/benefits (opens in a new window).
We are a Disability Confident Employer. If you have a disability and meet the essential criteria for this job you will be invited to take part in the next stage of the selection process.
Redeployee closing date: 20 December 2024
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We know that when people come together with different views, approaches and insights it can lead to richer, more creative and innovative teaching and research and the highest levels of student experience. Our University Vision (www.sheffield.ac.uk/vision) outlines our commitment to building a diverse community of staff and students that recognizes and values the abilities, backgrounds, beliefs and ways of living for everyone.