Research Associate in Quantum Technologies

About the role

This Research Associate position is part the Quantum Computing via Integrated and Interconnected Implementations (QCI3) Hub, a large multi-institutional consortium and a major pillar of the UK National Quantum Technologies Programme. This position will play an important role in QCI3, developing optical fibres as active elements for quantum technologies. 

The initial focus will be quantum frequency conversion. This uses photonic crystal fibre to modify the wavelength of single photon sources to make them suitable for long range quantum communications. This phase is in collaboration with the University of Cardiff, which contributes specialism in quantum emitters.

The post will be hosted by the Fibres group within the Department of Physics at Bath, with some fieldwork taking place in Cardiff. The term of the position is 24 months.

Your role will be primarily experimental (although an understanding of related theory will be crucial) and will involve working in our cutting-edge fibre fabrication facility and quantum photonics laboratories. You will develop desirable new skills including designing and manufacturing specialist optical fibres and working with innovative quantum light sources.

The role will deliver potential for research impact including publications in prestige journals, international conference travel and technology commercialisation. You will have an important role within a large collaboration, with opportunities to attend and present to regular gatherings of some of the most significant players in the UK quantum technologies space. This position therefore provides an exceptional opportunity to gain experience towards further career progression and research independence.

The Centre for Photonics and Photonic Materials is a highly collaborative and inclusive community of 40 researchers and students in the Department of Physics, University of Bath. It has world-leading status in the field of specialty optical fibres, including photonic crystal fibre. 

As a member of Research Staff at the University of Bath, you will be encouraged to take up a minimum of 10 days professional development pro rata per year

Please direct informal or pre-application enquiries to Dr Alex Davis (aocd20@bath.ac.uk)

About you

You will have a passion for experimental physics and quantum science and technologies. Strong skills in laser laboratory work, theoretical understanding, and innovativeness in a research context are also critical. Prior experience working with optical fibre and familiarity with electronics is desirable but not necessary. 

• They will be proactive and effective in the lab as well as possessing a keen attention to the detail of the underlying physics. 
• They will have strong interpersonal skills and be able to contribute in an innovative and constructive way. 
• They will have a proven track record of communicating their results, such as through conference presentations or publications in peer-reviewed journals.
• They will have completed, or be close to completing, a PhD in experimental physics or a closely allied field.
• They will be able to prioritise their workload and be proficient in other relevant skills, such as scientific computing.

Our ideal candidate will have (or will be nearing completion of) a PhD in experimental (quantum) physics or a closely allied discipline which is required for the Grade 7 position. 

A lower grade offer may be made (Grade 6) with comparable reduction in responsibilities and amendment in job title to Research Assistant. Applicants will need to be within six months of their course completion date and will be promoted to Research Associate once their PhD is awarded. 

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