Research Associate (Fixed Term)

Fixed-term: The funds for this post are available until 31 December 2026.

A Research Associate position is available in cryogenic Radio Frequency (RF) measurement for developing a Quantum Bus for germanium hole-based spin qubits on silicon. The role involves RF measurements of medium-range coupling between hole spins in quantum dot qubits formed in strained Ge quantum wells at cryogenic temperatures.

Professor Charles G. Smith from the Semiconductor Physics group at Cambridge will oversee the research. Materials will be provided by Professor Maksym Myronov (University of Warwick), devices will be made at the Tyndall National Institute (Ireland), and theoretical support will come from Professor Sougato Bose (University College London). The project collaborates with the Hitachi Cambridge Laboratory.

The project's goal is to demonstrate coherent coupling of two Ge hole dot-based qubits over about one micron, reducing unwanted cross-coupling and allowing scalable architectures. The role is based in the Cavendish Laboratory, University of Cambridge. Professor Smith has access to a BlueFors dilution refrigerator with a cryogenic RF amplifier for resonant readout of dot capacitances, enabling fast, high-fidelity readout of dot spins. Pulsed RF electric fields will control the spins on the dot qubits.

The successful candidate will hold (or be close to obtaining) a PhD in Physics, Electrical Engineering, or a related discipline with a proven track record in quantum research. Knowledge of quantum mechanics in solid state is required. Preference will be given to candidates with a strong background in RF techniques, cryogenic measurements, and experience in measuring quantum phenomena in nano-devices. Organisational, communication, and team-working skills are essential.

The post holder will be located at the Department of Physics, Cavendish Laboratory, JJ Thomson Avenue, Cambridge CB3 0HE, UK.

Research Associate: £36,924 - £45,163 (Grade 7). Appointment at Research Associate level is dependent on having a PhD. Those who have submitted but not yet received their PhD will initially be appointed as a Research Assistant (Grade 5, Point 38 - £33,882) moving to Research Associate (Grade 7) upon confirmation of your PhD award.

To apply online for this vacancy and to view further information about the role, please click the 'Apply' button above. 

If you have any questions about this vacancy please contact Professor Charles G. Smith (cgs4@cam.ac.uk). If you have any questions about the application process, please contact mott.hr@phy.cam.ac.uk.

Please quote reference KA44312 on your application and in any correspondence about this vacancy.

The University actively supports equality, diversity and inclusion and encourages applications from all sections of society.

The University has a responsibility to ensure that all employees are eligible to live and work in the UK.

Advert information