Research Associate – Quantum many-body Physics with Ultracold Polar Molecules

Imperial College London – Department of Physics

Location: South Kensington Campus, Imperial College London

About the role:

Applications are invited for a Research Associate position available in the Centre for Cold Matter, part of the Matter Community with the Department of Physics. You will produce independent and original research exploring the frontiers of quantum many-body physics using ensembles of ultracold polar molecules. The role is part of a collaborative programme grant focussed on this topic, and you will collaborate with other research groups within the UK and with our research partners from across the world.

What you would be doing:

The focus of this role will be experimental work using laser-cooled molecules. The aim is to cool the molecules towards quantum degeneracy, organize them into regular arrays using optical tweezer traps and optical lattices, and study the many body physics arising from their long-range dipolar interactions. You will work within a vibrant and collaborative environment alongside other experimentalists and with experts in many-body theory and the few-body theory of molecular interactions.

You will be expected to plan and carry out research, write up results for publication and oral presentations, report to the management group of the programme, liaise with collaborators within and outside Imperial College, assist in the maintenance of lab facilities and the administration of the research team, and support research students. This project will involve a high degree of teamwork and interdisciplinary research.

What we are looking for:

The following are essential requirements for the role:

• Hold a PhD* (or near completion) in experimental Physics or a closely related discipline.
• A strong background in experimental quantum science using atoms, molecules or ions.
• Proven ability to work in experiment-centred teams and to collaborate well with others.
• Technical knowledge of laser systems and the control of laser light.
• Excellent communication skills, both written and oral.

The following are desirable requirements for the role:

• Experience in laser cooling and trapping, preferably including quantum gases.
• Experience in simulation and data analysis.
• Experience of using data acquisition hardware and software.

For a full list of requirements, see the job description.

What we can offer you:

You will be joining the Centre for Cold Matter, a world leading research group specialising in quantum science, fundamental physics and quantum technologies with molecules, atoms and ions. You will also be joining the interdisciplinary, multi-institution research programme "Quantum many-body physics with ultracold polar molecules" and will have opportunities to collaborate with experts in the science of ultracold molecules, few-body interactions and many-body physics, including leaders from across the UK and around the world. You will have opportunities to develop your own research ideas and present your results in high-profile publications and conferences. Grow your career: gain access to Imperial’s sector-leading dedicated career support for researchers. We will help you develop as a scientist. Sector-leading salary and remuneration package (including 39 days off a year and generous pension schemes). Be part of a diverse, inclusive and collaborative work culture with various staff networks and resources to support your personal and professional wellbeing.

Further Information:

More information about the Department of Physics, the Matter Community and the staff benefits that we offer, can be found on our webpages. *Candidates who have not yet been officially awarded their PhD will be appointed as Research Assistant within the salary range £43,863 – £47,223 per annum. This is a full-time post. The position is available immediately for a fixed-term contract for 24 months, with potential for future extensions. If you require any further details about the role, please contact: Prof. Mike Tarbutt at m.tarbutt@imperial.ac.uk. For queries relating to the application process please contact: Ms Sanja Maricic, CCM Operations Manager, at s.maricic@imperial.ac.uk.