Research Associate in Advanced Platform for Integrated Quantum Photonics Devices

The Quantum Photonics Laboratory seeks a talented and motivated scientist to start a new line of research on integrated platforms for novel quantum devices using rare-earth doped crystals for quantum memory applications. Significant goals include the characterization of the optical/spin properties of different crystals, optimization of their electronic and spin coherence, and the implementation of quantum memory protocols in both bulk crystals and waveguide structures.

Education, Qualifications and Experience 

Essential Criteria 

• A PhD in physics, electrical engineering, or related subjects. Candidates must have submitted their doctoral thesis before starting in post. 
• The ideal candidate will have a strong experimental background in one or more of the following fields: solid-state physics, quantum photonics, and quantum information science. 
• A record of high-quality publications, as appropriate for the stage in career, in the above-mentioned fields. 
• Ability to articulate research work, both in technical reports / papers and by oral presentation. 
• Ability to formulate and progress work on their own initiative.  
• Ability to work as part of a team on the experiments at Heriot-Watt and more widely with the collaborators at other Universities. 

Desirable Criteria 

• Previous experience with one or more of the following: 
• Vacuum and cryogenics technology 
• Optical and/or radio-frequency technology 
• Control and measurement of quantum systems 
• Programming for data acquisition and analysis 

Key Duties and Responsibilities

The post holder is required to: 

• Undertake the following key tasks of this project: 
• Operate, maintain and modify, when necessary, a quantum memory experimental setup including tuneable lasers, cryocooler, vacuum systems, arbitrary waveform generators for the manipulation of atomic excitations, and radio frequency sources for the control of spins. 
• Perform spectroscopic characterization of various rare-earth crystals and implement quantum storage protocols. 
• Carry out other general tasks involved in scientific research as analysis and interpretation of data, and daily oversight of the activities of postgraduate and undergraduate project students in the laboratory. 
• Carry out the research project to a high standard by: 
• Meeting planned milestones and deliverables. 
• Reporting progress regularly to supervisors, both verbally and in written reports 
• Keeping clear written records of work done and storing data in accessible formats according to a system agreed with the project supervisor.
• Collaborate with partners within the project and others as appropriate: 
• Work collaboratively and cooperatively in a team environment; this involves shared use of laboratory equipment (therefore effective communication between group members is essential). 
• Assist the development of student research skills and contribute to the assessment of student knowledge in the context of teaching and supervision duties. 
• Maintain and develop collaborations with internal and external partners in the field. 

How to Apply

Please submit via the Heriot-Watt on-line recruitment system (1) Cover letter describing their interest and suitability for the post (2) Full CV

Applications can be submitted up to midnight (UK time) on 27th August 2024

Interviews are expected to commence week commencing 2nd September 2024

For more information, please send enquiry emails to Dr Margherita Mazzera (m.mazzera@hw.ac.uk)

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