Postdoctoral Research Associate in Quantum Light and Matter

The Role

Two Postdoctoral Research Associate positions are available to pursue experimental research in the field of atomic and laser physics within the Durham Quantum Light and Matter group. Both positions are funded by UK Research and Innovation (UKRI) and focus on advancing the frontier of quantum science using ultracold RbCs molecules trapped in optical tweezers. The post holders will work directly with Prof. Simon Cornish, Dr. Alex Guttridge and their research teams in Durham's Quantum Light and Matter group.

The overarching goal of the research is to synthesise and study artificial quantum materials using ultracold RbCs molecules arranged in regular arrays to probe novel quantum phenomena in strongly interacting quantum systems. The use of molecules is motivated by their rich internal structure, combined with the existence of controllable long-range dipole-dipole interactions, long trap lifetimes and strong coupling to electric and microwave fields.

One position is part of the project “Enhancing molecular control using Rydberg atoms”, which focuses on using hybrid systems of ultracold molecules and Rydberg atoms in optical tweezers for non-destructive detection of individual molecules and fast preparation of entangled states of molecules. The second position is part of a UK-Canada research collaboration on “Quantum-enhanced sensing with atoms and molecules”, investigating the application of molecular arrays for precision measurements and quantum sensing.

The post holders are therefore expected to have experience and familiarity with the techniques used in the study of ultracold gases, including the operation of magneto-optical traps, the production of quantum degenerate gases and optical trapping using optical tweezers/lattices. They will be expected to display initiative and creativity, along with the appropriate skills and knowledge, to achieve the research goals. The post holders are also expected to work effectively both independently and as part of a small research team. It is expected that the post holders will enhance the international contacts of the group through the presentation of work at international confer ences and exchange visits to collaborators connected with the project. The post holders will also be expected to aid in the supervision of graduate students within the group as well as contributing to the undergraduate teaching within the Department.

Informal enquiries are welcome and should please be directed

These posts are for a fixed term of 24 months.

The post holders are employed to work on research projects which will be led by another colleague. Whilst this means that the post holders will not be carrying out independent research in his/her own right, the expectation is that they will contribute to the advancement of the project, through the development of their own research ideas/adaptation and development of research protocols.

When appointing to this role the University must ensure that it meets any applicable immigration requirements, including salary thresholds which are applicable to some visas.

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