Research Fellow in Nanophotonics - School of Physics and Astronomy - 102128 - Grade 7

Full Job Description

Position Details

School of Physics and Astronomy

Location: University of Birmingham, Edgbaston, Birmingham UK

Full time starting salary is normally in the range £34,980 to £44,263 with potential progression once in post to £46,974

Grade: 7

Full Time, Fixed Term contract up to December 2025

Closing date: 28th March 2024

Background

Photonic devices and cavities have been widely used for decades for quantum technology applications, such as atomic clocks, atomic interferometry, frequency combs, gravitometers etc. This post involves the design of new nanophotonic devices that optically traps atoms and  optimizes their light-matter interactions, to build the next generation of a quantum navigator.   

Role Summary

We seek an individual with theoretical photonics background primarily in the research area of nanophotonics, and/or quantum optics. The successful candidate will perform computational calculations to design various nanophotonic devices. This project involves a very high degree of teamwork and interdisciplinary research, with collaboration with experimental and nanofabrication groups. 

Main Duties

Key responsibilities:

• To take initiative in the planning of research
• To identify and develop suitable theoretical techniques and models, for the collection and analysis of data
• Collect, analyse and interpret research data
• To ensure the validity and reliability of data at all times
• To maintain accurate and complete records of all findings
• Present research outputs, including drafting academic publications or parts thereof, for example at seminars and as posters
• Apply knowledge in a way which develops new intellectual understanding 
• Disseminate research findings for publication, research seminars, by drafting and preparing the relevant documents.
• To present findings to colleagues and at conferences
• Provide guidance, as required, to support staff and any students who may be assisting with the research
• Supervise students on research related work and provide guidance to PhD students where appropriate to the discipline
• Undertake basic management/administration arising from research
• Contribute to Departmental/School research-related activities and research-related administration
• Deal with problems that may affect the achievement of research objectives and deadlines

Person Specification

• Have (or expect to complete soon) a PhD in Physics (Theory) or a related topic, or have an equivalent level of professional qualifications and/or experience.
• Expertise in one (or more) of the following disciplines: Nanophotonics, quantum optics, or a related discipline.
• Exceptional skills in computational simulations for nanophotonic devices and/or analytical modelling for light-matter interactions.
• Ability to communicate complex information clearly to an interdisciplinary audience.
• Be able to work within interdisciplinary team.
• Ability to assess resource requirements and use resources effectively.
• Understanding of and ability to contribute to broader management/administration processes.

Informal enquires to Dr. Angela Demetriadou, email:

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 .