Research Associate/Fellow - Imaging With Quantum Sensors (Fixed Term)

Area: Physics & Astronomy

Location: University Park

The Quantum Technology (QT) team within the School of Physics and Astronomy at the University of Nottingham is expanding and needs a Research Associate/Fellow to support a newly funded industry facing project. The project will develop and demonstrate a new type of imaging system using QT based magnetic field sensors to image and characterise low-conductivity materials. The system is being developed for food safety, medical imaging and security applications.

Your successful application will mean you will join an established team of researchers supporting a range of cutting-edge QT related projects. Your primary role will involve computer simulation, optimisation, construction and experimental validation of functional imaging systems and environments that exploit the ultra-high-sensitivity of optically pumped magnetometers to detect and map the electrical characteristics of objects with low electrical conductivity. There will be a strong focus on the optimisation of sensor deployment and image reconstruction.

Your role will also, crucially, involve demonstration of the capabilities of the prototype imaging system in increasingly realistic environments. This will be undertaken in collaboration with our academic and industry partners, engineering colleagues, and end users, with the objective of demonstrating rapid progression up the Technology Readiness Level scale. Collaboration with experimentalists, security experts, quantum imaging colleagues, researchers from other disciplines, and industry partners will thus be a vital part of the role.

You will be responsible for writing up your work for publication, and will have the opportunity to use your skills, experience, and creativity to identify and propose new areas for follow-on research activities.

The post is available from 1st Jan 2025 and is offered on a full time (36.25 hours per week) fixed-term contract for a period of 18 months after commencement. Job share arrangements may be considered.

As part of our commitment to improving equality, diversity and inclusion within the school, shortlisted candidates will be given the opportunity to talk to a member of staff representing women, racially minoritized, LGBTQIA+ or disabilities communities. This will be separate to the assessment process and will play no role in the decision to appoint.

Informal enquiries may be addressed to Professor Mark Fromhold, email Mark.Fromhold@nottingham.ac.uk. Please note that applications sent directly to this email address will not be accepted.

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