Research Fellow

Full time starting salary is normally in the range £34,980 to £44,263 with potential progression once in post to £46,974

Grade: 7

Atom interferometry has become a versatile tool for fundamental research and, more recently, has started to move out of the laboratory towards quantum sensing for a wide range of applications. The Quantum Sensing Group at the University of Birmingham is now seeking candidates to undertake research in high-bandwidth quantum sensors for gravity for various applications such as navigation and enabling technologies for generic cold atom quantum sensors.

The successful candidate will join a thriving quantum technology research base at the University. Since 2014, the University has led the UK Quantum Technology Hub in Sensors and Timing. Bringing together academic partners from seven universities, the British Geological Survey and the National Physical Laboratory, this interdisciplinary Hub is active in translating quantum technology research into applications, including over 200 collaborative projects with industry. This includes research in areas such as atom interferometry for civil engineering and navigation, magnetometry for healthcare, and precision timing based on optical clocks for advanced radar systems.

This new Institute will bring together a vibrant research community to enable collaborations across disciplines and across career stages. The University will lead the newly announced 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.

The successful candidate will develop next-generation sensors, focusing on miniaturisation and operation on mobile platforms in line with the collaboration with Toyota Motor Europe and an EPSRC programme grant. The research includes several cutting-edge techniques such as unidirectional atom optics, atom-guided atom interferometry, compact highly-coherent frequency-agile lasers, novel atom sources, and integrated photonics platforms, to name a few. We are seeking individuals with a background in experimental physics or a related area, who are excited by research and who have an interest in technology development.

Person Specification

• A PhD (or near to completion) or equivalent, in a relevant area of physics, engineering or a related discipline
• Experience in experiments of atomic, molecular, and optical physics, and/or relevant related technical areas (such as underpinning hardware including lasers, electronics, and ultra-high vacuum)
• High-level analytical capability
• Ability to communicate complex information clearly
• Fluency in relevant models, techniques or methods and ability to contribute to developing new ones

Applicants should make sure to attach the following to their application:

• A full academic CV, including a full publication list;
• A statement of previous research experience and how this aligns with the role (max 1 page);
• Contact details for three referees.

Informal enquires can be made to Dr Yu-Hung Lien (y.lien@bham.ac.uk) or Professor Michael Holynski (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: 3^rd November 2024

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