and students.

Applications are invited for a Research Assistant to pursue experimental research in the field of atomic, molecular and optical (AMO) physics within the Durham Quantum Light and Matter group. The position is funded by UK Research and Innovation (UKRI) and the post holder will work directly with Dr. Alex Guttridge, Prof. Simon Cornish and their research teams.

The overarching goal of the research is to synthesise designer quantum systems particle by particle. This research project will use optical tweezers arrays to trap and manipulate arrays of ultracold RbCs molecules. 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. This 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 successful applicant will demonstrate a strong foundational understanding of the principles behind ultracold gases. While training will be provided, prior exposure to techniques such as magneto-optical traps, the production of quantum degenerate gases, or optical tweezers is highly advantageous. They will be expected to develop 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 conferences and exchange visits to collaborators connected with the project.

This post is fixed term for 36 months and the funding is available from two sources. The first from UK Research and Innovation (UKRI) for the project "Quantum-enhanced sensing with atoms and molecules" with funding available for a fixed period of 1 year. The second funding source is from the Department of Physics which will fund this role for a further fixed period of 2 years resulting in 3 years of time-limited funding.

The post-holder is employed to work on research which will be led by another colleague. Whilst this means that the post-holder 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.

Successful applicants will, ideally, be in post by March 2026.

and students.

Applications are invited for a Research Assistant to pursue experimental research in the field of atomic, molecular and optical (AMO) physics within the Durham Quantum Light and Matter group. The position is funded by UK Research and Innovation (UKRI) and the post holder will work directly with Dr. Alex Guttridge, Prof. Simon Cornish and their research teams.

The overarching goal of the research is to synthesise designer quantum systems particle by particle. This research project will use optical tweezers arrays to trap and manipulate arrays of ultracold RbCs molecules. 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. This 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 successful applicant will demonstrate a strong foundational understanding of the principles behind ultracold gases. While training will be provided, prior exposure to techniques such as magneto-optical traps, the production of quantum degenerate gases, or optical tweezers is highly advantageous. They will be expected to develop 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 conferences and exchange visits to collaborators connected with the project.

This post is fixed term for 36 months and the funding is available from two sources. The first from UK Research and Innovation (UKRI) for the project "Quantum-enhanced sensing with atoms and molecules" with funding available for a fixed period of 1 year. The second funding source is from the Department of Physics which will fund this role for a further fixed period of 2 years resulting in 3 years of time-limited funding.

The post-holder is employed to work on research which will be led by another colleague. Whilst this means that the post-holder 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.

Successful applicants will, ideally, be in post by March 2026.