Research Assistant in RF and Optical Communication Engineering

The current opportunity is available for current Manchester Met students. You must be based in the UK for the duration of the role. The main purpose of this role is to provide research support to colleagues and support staff for the Hybrid RF‑Free‑Space Optics Low‑Noise Amplifier Design for Wi‑Fi 7 Communication by assisting with research data collection and analysis, and the dissemination of findings to appropriate research groups and contacts related to the project.

• Support schematic capture, modeling and co‑simulation of the hybrid RF‑FSO LNA front‑end across Wi‑Fi 7 bands, contributing to low noise figure and gain flatness.
• Use industry‑standard tools (e.g., Keysight ADS, MATLAB and related packages) to run simulations, manage datasets and compare design iterations.
• Assist with EM/EMC considerations, mitigating RF‑optical coupling/crosstalk risks in a compact front‑end module.
• Support high‑frequency PCB design, prototype build/bring‑up (layout checks, BOM support, assembly readiness).
• Plan and execute RF measurements (S‑parameters, gain compression, noise figure) and validate optical switching integrity where applicable.
• Collect, clean and analyze lab data; produce clear plots, tables and performance summaries for design reviews.
• Conduct literature and database searches; summarize prior art and technical benchmarks relevant to Wi‑Fi 7 LNAs and hybrid RF/optical architectures.
• Draft technical content for reports, presentations, publications/whitepapers and stakeholder updates.
• Work collaboratively within a multidisciplinary team; support good lab practice, documentation and quality processes.

• BEng (Hons)/MEng (Hons)/MSc/PhD in Electrical & Electronic Engineering and Allied Fields.
• Ability to undertake research by preparing, setting up, conducting and recording the outcome of experiments and/or field work.
• Ability to use initiative, creativity and judgment to develop appropriate approaches in order to further research.
• Proficiency in the use of relevant software packages such as Keysight Advanced Design System and MATLAB.
• Possess sufficient breadth or depth of knowledge to work within an established research team.
• Experience of data collection.
• Experience of presenting and communicating complex information to a range of audiences, both orally and in writing.
• Experience of prioritizing work independently and as part of a team in order to deliver individual and team objectives.
• Experience of radio frequency (RF) and free‑space optics communication circuits design, modelling, simulation, test, characterisation and analysis.

• Knowledge of 3D‑printed products design, including an understanding of relevant research methods and techniques in the area.
• Proficiency in the use of relevant software packages such as Keysight System Vue, CST and HFSS.

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