Research Fellow

Salary: Full time starting salary is normally in the range £36,130 to £45,413 with potential progression once in post to £48,149

Contract Type: Fixed Term contract up to March 2027

Role Summary

The positions will initially focus on research into experimental and modelling techniques for increasing the resilience of atom interferometers, investigating cutting-edge techniques such as optimal control, and novel interferometry and imaging schemes, and their application in practical field trials.

The successful candidate will join a Prosperity Partnership project between the group and three leading industry partners from aerospace, microfabrication and innovation domains. They will work closely with the project team to apply to consider and address challenges involved in integration of quantum sensors into complex systems. 

They will also join a thriving quantum technology research base at the University of Birmingham. The University has been active in quantum technologies since 2014 and now leads the UK Quantum Technology Research Hub in Sensing, Imaging and Timing (QuSIT). 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 numerous collaborative projects with industry.

The Quantum Sensing Group, in the School of Physics and Astronomy, is dedicated to research for fundamental sciences and practical applications. The group is home to a range of activities including five operating atom interferometers, precision spectroscopy and underpinning technologies. The group promotes an open and inclusive culture, fostering a friendly, supportive and collaborative working environment. The group brings together people with skillsets from across areas such as physics, applied physics and engineering, with group members from eight different countries, speaking over twelve different languages.

Perks of this role include:

• Opportunity to undertake high quality research in a highly visible area with connection to impact
• Working closely with people with practical experience of developing and commercialising intellectual property
• Opportunity to develop leadership skills and capacity, and to develop personal networks with industry and other stakeholders
• Training and development as part of the Prosperity Partnership, including opportunities for industry-relevant skills such as relating to systems engineering, entrepreneurship and intellectual property
• Allocation of time to dedicate to personal career development, such as training and development of independent research ideas
• Standard benefits of working at the University (e.g. pension scheme)

Applicants are expected to demonstrate academic citizenship, develop and maintain mutually respectful and supportive working relationships with staff and students, and ensure their role impacts positively on others.

Person Specification

• A PhD (or near to completion), or equivalent, in a relevant area of physics, engineering or a related discipline
• Relevant research experience in quantum technologies, such as atom interferometry or similar systems; applicants with relevant experience in a related discipline will also be considered
• Excellent communication skills in English, with ability to communicate effectively with staff and students in formal and informal settings

Informal enquiries can be made to Professor Michael Holynski, email: M.holynski@bham.ac.uk and Louise Randall, email: l.e.randall.1@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: 06/05/2025

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