Graduate PhD Research and Development Scientist

About our group:

 

Seagate is a global leader in data storage solutions. We strive to create precision-engineered data storage technologies that deliver superior capacity, speed, safety, and performance. Seagate is where the future is read and written, with continuous innovation proving that a hard drive is not “just” a hard drive. Find out how we are shaping a new era of storage as we craft the datasphere.  

 

As an industry leader, Seagate provides unique career opportunities to be part of today’s major technology shifts. They can be found around the globe and on our website.

 

We are recruiting Graduate Research and Development Scientists to support next generation of Heat Assisted Magnetic Recording (HAMR) technologies. Roles span photonics integration, materials technology, plasmonics, and test development. You will join an established R&D team, reporting to the R&D Manager, and contribute directly to defining and delivering future HAMR products.

About the role - you will:

 

Leveraging our advanced cleanroom facilities and manufacturing capabilities, you will develop and integrate HAMR, thin film, and wafer process technologies into new products, delivering against critical performance and reliability requirements.

 You will:

•    Fabricate and characterise next generation HAMR transducers 
•    Perform process characterization, troubleshooting, and continuous improvement 
•    Develop process methods across photolithography, deposition, and dry/wet etch 
•    Develop optical and electrical test capabilities for magnetic recording devices 
•    Plan projects and collaborate with cross functional teams and internal customers 
•    Stay current with advances in wafer processing and industry best practices 
•    Document and clearly present technical results and findings

About you:

 

You are:

•    Familiar with Si and III V semiconductor processing technologies and equipment 
•    Knowledgeable in thin film materials characterization and test techniques 
•    Familiar with optoelectronics, plasmonics, and integrated photonic devices 
•    Comfortable with electrical test methods and instrumentation 
•    A strong communicator with excellent written and presentation skills 
•    A collaborative team player who thrives in a cross functional environment

Your experience includes:

 

Note: If you have applied for this role within the past six months with Seagate, there is no need to reapply.

•    Recently completed or are in the final year of a PhD program

•    A relevant degree in Materials Science, Physics, Optoelectronics, or similar
•    A strong background in photonic, semiconductor, or laser device fabrication
•    Strong analytical skills, including experience with Six Sigma tools and R, JMP, or similar software
•    Experience with laser integration and semiconductor process development (desirable)

 

Completed applications should be submitted no later than midnight on Monday, 1st June 2026

 

This is a Full-Time position working 39 hours per week. 

 

Please demonstrate on your Cover Letter or CV how you meet the criteria set out in the job description identified above. 

 

Testing may be used as part of the selection process.

 

At Seagate we are committed to building a diverse, inclusive and authentic workplace. To see all vacancies that Seagate has available, please sign up - Register your interest for career updates with our Talent Network and to be considered for future opportunities: Seagate Careers 

 

Seagate Technology is committed to equal opportunity in employment and welcomes applications from all sections of the community irrespective of sex, marital status, religious affiliation, age, disability or ethnic origin. The Company specifically welcomes applications from the protestant community who are currently underrepresented in this job category. All applications will be considered strictly on the basis of merit.

Location:

 

Springtown, Derry / Londonderry, Northern Ireland

 

Our Springtown site is Derry/Londonderry’s largest manufacturer, we’re proud that Seagate is a flexible and inclusive place to work. We have more than 1,550 employees spanning research and development, manufacturing, and many other functions.

 

Here at work, you can grab breakfast, lunch, dinner and snacks at our subsidized on-site cafe. 

 

Looking for an active break from your workday? We’ve got you covered. Take a group or individual exercise class during lunch or after work at our on-site gym. 

 

Network with your colleagues through the Young Professionals Network, Women’s Leadership Group, the Carers Café (for caregivers of individuals with disabilities), Volunteer in the community with our support! Join our creative network, which includes a choir, foreign language classes and even a cookery class! 

 

Join our Employee Resource Groups (ERG), a voluntary, employee-led community built on a shared diversity identity and/or an appreciation of that identity, open to ALL current employees at Seagate! 

 

See list below of many of our Springtown Company Benefits:

•    Health – Private healthcare, for employees and dependents, Company sick pay and medical leave, Occupational healthcare service, Employee assistance programmes, Group income protection and On-site gym/ exercise classes / personal trainer.
•    Work Life Balance – Annual leave, Part-time working, Enhanced maternity pay, Enhanced paternity pay, Bereavement leave. Onsite gym
•    Finance – Pension – employer contributory scheme, Life assurance, Employee stock purchase plan, Competitive base pay, Company bonus scheme, Reward and recognition, Perks at work discount programmes, Pay for civil / jury duty.
•    Career – Degree / non degree assistance Externally accredited training and development opportunities, Service awards, LinkedIn learning, Learning & development programmes

 

Location: Springtown, United Kingdom
Travel: None