Research Fellow in Quantum Sensing

Contract Type: Fixed Term contract up to May 2026 

Role Summary

The successful candidate will join a thriving research base to work within the UK Quantum Technology Research Hub in Sensing, Imaging and Timing (QuSIT). This interdisciplinary Hub will deliver transformative advancements across sectors including infrastructure, transportation and security. These technologies are based on atomic states and entangled photons to create devices that sense and image otherwise invisible optical wavelengths, radio-frequencies, magnetic and gravitational fields, and exploit precision time.

The QuSIT Hub team believes there is no such thing as a 'typical' team member. Diversity is a strength that underpins the exchange of ideas and our innovations. We’ll continue to identify and reduce structural barriers to equality and we’ll foster a kind, inclusive community that works for everyone. If you are appointed, we’ll help you to thrive in this role, including providing opportunities such as mentoring, networking and wider skills development within a high-profile research environment. Applicants are expected to demonstrate academic citizenship, develop and maintain mutually respectful and supportive working relationships, and ensure their role impacts positively on others.

The role holder will perform research into atom interferometry for gravity gradient sensing; develop a high specification, compact and robust laser system; and work with the team to implement it in a new gradiometer, for use in underground inspection and environmental sciences.

Perks of this role include:

• Opportunity to undertake high quality research with connection to impact.
• Working closely with people with practical experience of developing and commercialising intellectual property.
• Opportunity to develop leadership skills and personal networks.
• Time for career development, training and development of independent research ideas.

Person Specification

• A PhD (or near to completion) or equivalent, in a relevant area of physics, engineering or a related discipline.
• Relevant research experience in quantum technologies, such as atom interferometry or laser systems; applicants with relevant experience in a related discipline will also be considered.
• Excellent communication skills in English.
• Experience of working in collaborative projects or teams.
• Skills in successfully leading, managing, supporting or mentoring others.
• Ability to contribute to research planning and administration.
• Co-ordinate with others to avoid conflict or duplication of effort.
• Knowledge, or willingness to learn, of the protected characteristics of the Equality Act 2010, and how to actively ensure fair and equal treatment. 

The School of Physics and Astronomy is an Institute of Physics Juno Champion since 2014 and holder of the Athena SWAN Silver Award. Both initiatives recognise the School’s commitment to promote diversity and equality, and to encourage better practice for all members of the community, whilst also working towards developing an equitable working culture in which all students and staff can achieve their full potential. We welcome applications from all qualified applicants, and encourage applications from traditionally under-represented groups in physics and engineering including, but not limited to, women and Black, Asian and Minority Ethnic groups.

Informal enquiries to Professor Michael Holynski, email: M.holynski@bham.ac.uk

To download the full job description and details of this position and submit an electronic application online please click on the 'Apply' button above.

Valuing excellence, sustaining investment
We value diversity and inclusion at the University of Birmingham and welcome applications from all sections of the community and are open to discussions around all forms of flexible working

Closes: 11/09/2024

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