Research Fellow in Quantum Sensing - School of Physics and Astronomy - 102394 - Grade 7

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 2 years, with possible extension up to 5 years

Closing date: 10th April 2024

In addition to completing the application form, please ensure that a CV is also attached to be considered for this role.

Background

Atom interferometry has become a versatile tool for fundamental research and, more recently, has started to move out of the laboratory towards quantum sensing for a wide range of applications.

The Quantum Sensing Group at the University of Birmingham is now seeking candidates to undertake research into cold atom gravity gradient sensing, for use in practical applications. This includes candidates who are eager to undertake research next generation atom interferometers, focussing on miniaturisation and operation on mobile platforms within the UK Quantum Technology Hub in Sensing and Timing. This will include research into cutting-edge techniques such as large momentum transfer, optimal phase control and spatially resolved single-shot detection.

Successful candidates will be based in the Quantum Technology laboratories at Birmingham, and will join a group which is home to five atom interferometry experiments including systems based on rubidium and strontium. We are active within the UK Quantum Technology Hub in Sensing and Timing, working closely with industry, and the Atom Interferometry Observatory and Network consortium, investigating future use of atom interferometers for detection of gravitational waves and dark matter. The group is comprised of people with a diverse range of backgrounds, and includes people with a range of skills across physics and engineering. We are seeking individuals with a background in experimental physics, who are excited by research and who have a keen interest in technology development.

Role Summary

• Research and apply novel techniques for atom interferometry gravity gradient measurements, for applied sensing
• Work closely with industry partners, reporting progress and achievements
• Generate and contribute to research outputs
• Analyse and interpret research findings and results
• Be active in research proposal development and contribute to generating funding
• Contribute to development of intellectual property and public understanding of the discipline 

Main Duties

The responsibilities may include some but not all the responsibilities outlined below.

• Perform experimental research into atom interferometry, with opportunities to provide leadership over an experimental area of the group
• Project reporting and liaison with industry and academic project partners
• Management of local project team and activities under supervision of project leader
• Contribute to writing bids for research funding
• Apply knowledge in a way which develops new intellectual understanding
• Dissemination of research findings such as through publications, research seminars, and to the public etc
• Supervise students on research related work and provide guidance to PhD students 
• Perform research to develop new models, techniques and methods, including intellectual property
• Collect, analyse and interpret research data; this may be through a variety of research methods, such as scientific experimentation, literature reviews, and research interviews
• Deal with problems that may affect the achievement of research objectives and deadlines
• Promote equality and diversity values acting as a role model and fostering an inclusive working culture.

Person Specification

• Postgraduate degree in Physics or Engineering and a higher degree in experimental Physics or related discipline, or equivalent qualifications
• Experience in relevant experimental techniques from atom interferometry, or atomic, molecular, and optical physics, and/or relevant related technical areas (such as underpinning hardware including lasers, electronics, ultra-high vacuum)
• An excellent team player with great initiative, a positive attitude to change, and the desire to provide direction and encouragement to colleagues and students
• High level analytical capability
• Ability to communicate complex information clearly, at a variety of technical levels
• Adaptable to project management structures, such as conventional and agile project management approaches
• Fluency in relevant models, techniques or methods and ability to contribute to developing new ones
• Ability to assess resource requirements and use resources effectively
• Ability to contribute to the planning and organising of the research programme and/or specific research project
• Ability to co-ordinate own work with others to avoid conflict or duplication of effort
• If your experience looks a little different from what we have identified and you think you could thrive in the role we would still like to hear from you

Informal enquiries to Dr Andrew Hinton, email:  and Professor Michael Holynski, email:  

We believe there is no such thing as a 'typical' member of University of Birmingham staff and that diversity in its many forms is a strength that underpins the exchange of ideas, innovation and debate at the heart of University life. We are committed to proactively addressing the barriers experienced by some groups in our community and are proud to hold Athena SWAN, Race Equality Charter and Disability Confident accreditations. We have an Equality Diversity and Inclusion Centre that focuses on continuously improving the University as a fair and inclusive place to work where everyone has the opportunity to succeed. You can find out more about our work to create a fairer university for everyone  on our website .