Research Fellow in Atomic and Molecular Physics

About us

UCL is one of the world's top universities based in the heart of London. It is a modern, outward-looking institution. UCL's staff and former students have included 29 Nobel prizewinners. It is a truly international community: more than one-third of our student body – more than 35,000 strong – come from 150 countries and nearly one-third of staff are from outside the UK.

About the role

There is an immediate opening for a Research Associate to work in the group of Professor David Cassidy on CP violation in the lepton sector, studied via positronium annihilation. The post will involve experimental research using positron sources and beams to generate positronium atoms, whose decay properties will be studied in detail using gamma ray spectroscopy. The experiments will include the preparation of Ps beams in which the atoms are prepared in specific atomic states using laser and microwave radiation. This work contains aspects of both atomic and particle physics. It is primarily experimental but will involve significant computational work related to modelling radiation detection processes, as well as the effects of external electric and magnetic fields on the quantum states of positronium atoms.

This project is funded by the Leverhulme Trust and the position is offered for 12 months in the first instance, but may be extended up to a total 48 months.

Candidates should upload a CV (including a list of publications), a statement of research interests and plans (3 pages maximum), and the contact information for three references. A cover letter can be included using the “Statement in Support of your Application” section of the online form. Applicants should arrange for three letters of reference to be emailed to PI’s name by the application deadline.

About you

The successful applicant will have a PhD in Physics and expertise in experimental AMO or particle physics techniques. Candidates should also have excellent written and verbal communication.

The RA will be expected to contribute to all aspects of the experiments, and will take a leading role in planning and executing research strategies, designing and building a new apparatus, collecting and analysing data and adjusting experimental protocols as required. Other duties will involve working with graduate and undergraduate students, promoting the work at international conferences and engaging in outreach activities.

The successful applicant will have a PhD, in experimental atomic or particle physics, or a related subject. Direct experience with radioactive materials, radiation detectors, low-energy (keV) particle beams and data acquisition and handling are desirable, as is experience with ultra-high vacuum systems, basic electronics, and programming using Python. Prior experience with positron beams or lasers would be advantageous but is not essential.

What we offer

For information about what we offer and our commitment to Equality, Diversity and Inclusion, please view the job on UCL's job site.

Advert information