The Associate will take ownership of a strategically important development programme to create a compact cold-atom clock physics package. Based at CPI-TMD in Hayes, following an initial placement of approximately 8-12 months at the University of Strathclyde, they will work alongside leading academic researchers and experienced industrial engineers.
FTE: 1 (37.5 hours)
Term: Fixed (36 months)
The Department of Physics at the University of Strathclyde, in partnership with CPI-TMD Technologies Ltd, is seeking an exceptional and highly motivated Knowledge Transfer Partnership (KTP) Associate to lead the commercial development of a next-generation atomic clock based on proprietary cold-atom technology developed at the University of Strathclyde.
This exciting role offers the opportunity to be at the forefront of the UK's rapidly growing quantum technology sector, translating world-leading academic research into a commercially viable product with applications across telecommunications, defence, critical infrastructure, navigation, and scientific instrumentation.
The position will be primarily based at CPI-TMD Technologies' headquarters in Hayes, West London, with regular engagement with academic collaborators at the University of Strathclyde. To facilitate knowledge transfer and technology development, the successful candidate is expected to spend approximately the first 8-12 months of the project embedded within the University of Strathclyde's research team.
About CPI-TMD Technologies
CPI-TMD Technologies Ltd is a leading UK designer and manufacturer of high-power microwave amplifiers, transmitters, and power systems serving the defence, communications, scientific, and industrial markets. Established in 1969 and employing approximately 150 people, CPI-TMD generates annual revenues exceeding £50 million, with more than 85% of sales exported worldwide.
Building on its strong heritage in advanced engineering and precision technologies, CPI-TMD has invested significantly in quantum technologies since 2014, developing innovative capabilities in atomic clocks, quantum sensing, and precision timing systems. The company is committed to establishing itself as a leader in the commercialisation and manufacture of quantum-enabled products.
Benefits of the KTP Associate Position
In addition to a competitive salary, the successful candidate will benefit from:
- A dedicated £2,000 annual personal development and training budget.
- Access to specialist technical, leadership, and project management training.
- Dedicated mentoring from both academic and industry experts.
- Ownership and leadership of a strategically important innovation project.
- Hands-on experience delivering real commercial impact within a growing technology business.
- Exposure to both academic research and industrial product development environments.
- The opportunity to gain recognised management and leadership qualifications.
- The chance to tailor your professional development through training in project management, finance, leadership, communication, commercialisation, and specialist technical disciplines.
- Excellent career prospects, with approximately 70% of KTP Associates being offered permanent employment by their host company on completion of the project.
About Knowledge Transfer Partnerships
This project forms part of the UK's Knowledge Transfer Partnership (KTP) programme, which helps businesses innovate and grow through strategic collaboration with universities and research organisations. KTP projects are funded by UK Research and Innovation (UKRI) through Innovate UK and play a key role in supporting the UK's innovation economy.
As a KTP Associate, you will occupy a unique position between academia and industry, acting as the bridge that enables cutting-edge research to deliver real-world impact, commercial value, and technological advancement.
For more information about the KTP programme and the role of a KTP Associate, please visit: www.ktpws.org.uk
For any informal enquires, please contact Dr Oliver Burrow (oliver.burrow@strath.ac.uk).