This position is based in Southampton SO15 0LG
An exciting opportunity has arisen for an ambitious graduate to play a central role in an innovative project with a leading organisation in the defence and security sector. This position has been created through a Knowledge Transfer Partnership (KTP) between Lancaster University’s School of Physics and Astronomy and Leonardo UK Ltd, with input from Lancaster’s School of Engineering. The role is offered as a 24‑month fixed‑term contract, including a £4,000 personal training and development budget. Upon successful completion of the project, there may be opportunities for continued employment with the company partner.
Leonardo UK is a global leader in the aerospace, defence, and security markets, delivering advanced technologies and solutions to both military and civilian customers. Leonardo’s UK Electronics Division specialises in semiconductor growth, device fabrication, and complex packaging for sensing technologies, and is a world-leading manufacturer of IR cameras. To explore Leonardo further, please visit Leonardo UK.
As KTP Associate, you will lead a project focused on developing novel sensing materials for infrared detectors, which will be integrated into existing systems for Leonardo’s customers and support expansion into new commercial markets. Although employed by Lancaster University, you will be primarily based at Leonardo’s Southampton site within the Systems Engineering Team, working closely with the Principal Semiconductor Engineer and Lead Materials Engineering Specialist. You will collaborate with senior management at Leonardo and academic experts from Lancaster University, principally Dr Andrew Marshall and Dr Peter Carrington. Lancaster University and Leonardo have a strong, decade‑long research partnership.
During the project, you will undertake four extended visits (between 2 and 8 weeks each) to Lancaster University to access specialist semiconductor growth and fabrication facilities for project work. Accommodation will be provided during these visits.
Lancaster University is a top‑10 UK university and ranked top‑125 globally. Its School of Physics and Astronomy is one of the strongest in the UK, with REF 2021 rating 98% of research outputs as world‑leading or internationally excellent, and 100% of research environments at the same level. The School of Engineering is a broad‑based centre of excellence with world‑class research, innovative teaching, and strong industrial engagement. Lancaster is the UK leader in T2SL research.
The novel design of this KTP project, combined with the generous support package and close supervision from both industry and a leading university, makes this an exceptional opportunity to take a leading role in cutting‑edge innovation. You will develop highly transferable skills in entrepreneurship, teamwork, external stakeholder engagement, and organisational awareness, all of which will be invaluable throughout your career. This role also offers a strong platform to launch or accelerate a career in advanced semiconductor technologies.
You will be embedded within a successful commercial business, leading the project from start to finish and gaining hands‑on experience in commercial awareness, technical delivery, and business operations.
Ideally, you will hold a PhD in a relevant field such as semiconductor physics, electronics, or materials science. You should already have experience in areas aligned with the project, for example, working with III–V semiconductors, and performing photodetector characterisation at room temperature and in cryogenic environments. Experience with T2SL detectors is highly desirable. These skills may have been gained through your doctoral research or relevant industrial experience. You will also need basic numerical‑modelling skills, an analytical mindset, and the ability to innovate.
We are looking for a motivated individual with curiosity, a strong appetite for learning, and the confidence to take initiative. The role requires someone who is adaptable, commercially aware, and comfortable solving problems in fast‑moving environments.
You will work collaboratively with colleagues across Leonardo UK and communicate effectively with stakeholders at all levels to translate academic research into practical business solutions and support effective knowledge transfer. Strong skills in project management, report writing, time management, and interpersonal communication will be essential throughout the project. You should be committed to your own professional development, willing to undertake additional training, and prepared to drive the KTP project forward with energy and ambition.
In addition to a competitive salary, the reward package includes an additional £4,000 for your personal development, with time allocated for you to pursue training and learning activities, offering excellent opportunities to further your professional development and support your career progression. You will also be encouraged to prepare research publications based upon the results of the project where commercially appropriate.
This KTP project is funded by UKRI through Innovate UK. Knowledge Transfer Partnerships bring together universities and business to work together on a development project that is strategically important to the organisation’s future. KTP projects are delivered by recent graduates who enhance their career prospects by benefiting from business-based training and personal and professional development. For further information on Knowledge Transfer Partnerships, please visit Knowledge Transfer Partnerships
Informal enquires should be directed to Dr Andrew Marshall,
[email protected]
This role is subject to pre-employment screening in line with the UK Government’s Baseline Personnel Security Standard (BPSS). An additional range of Personnel Security Controls referred to as National Security Vetting (NSV) may apply, this could include meeting the eligibility requirements for The Security Check (SC) or Developed Vetting (DV). For more information and guidance please visit: https://careers.uk.leonardo.com/gb/en/security-and-vetting
We welcome applications from people in all diversity groups.
For further information and to apply online please click the apply button.
Lancaster University – ensuring equality of opportunity and celebrating diversity.
