"Research Fellow in Quantum Sensing - School of Physics and Astronomy - 104193 - Grade 7"

Position Details

School of Physics and Astronomy

Location: University of Birmingham, Edgbaston, Birmingham UK

As this vacancy has limited funding the maximum salary that can be offered is Grade 7, salary £45,585.

Full Time, Fixed Term contract up to May 2026 

Closing date: 11th September 2024

UK travel may be required for this role

Background

To create and contribute to the creation of knowledge by undertaking a specified range of activities within an established research programme and/or specific research project.

The Quantum Sensing Group at the University of Birmingham is seeking candidates for a Research Fellow in Quantum Sensing. The successful candidate will join a thriving quantum technology research base at the University, and will contribute towards the recently announced EPSRC-funded programme UK Quantum Technology Research Hub in Sensing, Imaging and Timing (QuSIT).

QuSIT, which begins in December 2024, is the third phase of Quantum Technology Hubs led by University of Birmingham. It brings together academics from nine universities, the British Geological Survey and industry partners, collaborating to translate cutting-edge research into tangible innovations. This interdisciplinary Hub will deliver transformative advancements across multiple sectors, including healthcare, infrastructure, transportation, environmental sustainability and security. These technologies are based on both atomic states and entangled photons to create quantum devices that sense and image otherwise invisible optical wavelengths, radio-frequencies, magnetic and gravitational fields, and exploit precision time.

The role holder will perform research into atom interferometry for gravity gradiometry. The role will initially focus on realising next generation laser systems that are both compact and robust while enabling high sensitivity measurements. They will investigate new schemes for the laser system and develop it in collaboration with leading industry and academic partners. They will then work with the team to implement the laser system in a new gravity gradiometer configuration that aims to demonstrate capability in underground inspection, environmental sciences, situational awareness and navigation. We are seeking individuals with a background in experimental physics or a related area, who are excited by research and who have an interest in technology development.

The successful candidate will be based within the Quantum Sensing Group. The work of this interdisciplinary group has been described as a key strength of the National Quantum Technology Programme, for example within the National Quantum Strategy. 

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
• Allocation of time to dedicate to 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.

The QuSIT Hub team believes there is no such thing as a 'typical' team member. Diversity in all its forms is a strength that underpins the exchange of ideas and our innovations. We will continue to identify and reduce structural barriers to equality and we’ll foster a kind, inclusive community that works for everyone. If you are appointed, we’ll help you to thrive in this role, including providing opportunities such as mentoring, networking and wider skills development within a high-profile research environment.

The School of Physics and Astronomy is a world-leading physics department, excelling in both research and teaching. Our physics research was recently ranked top in the UK for 4-star-category research, and 4th by GPA, by the Research Excellence Framework 2021. The 2016 Nobel Prize in Physics was awarded to Professor Mike Kosterlitz and Professor David Thouless jointly for their work into the discoveries of the properties of matter, work which started when they were at Birmingham together. The 2017 Prize was awarded for the detection of gravitational waves, in which Birmingham staff played a key role. 

The School’s research portfolio is wide-ranging, and covers three principal themes: Quantum Matter; Particle and Nuclear Physics; and Astronomy and Experimental Gravity. It has over 120 academic and research staff together with 120 graduate students with around 50 technical and clerical support staff. 

The School of Physics and Astronomy is an Institute of Physics Juno Champion since 2014 and holder of the Athena SWAN Silver Award. Both initiatives recognise the School’s commitment to promote diversity and equality, and to encourage better practice for all members of the community, whilst also working towards developing an equitable working culture in which all students and staff can achieve their full potential. We welcome applications from all qualified applicants, and encourage applications from traditionally under-represented groups in physics and engineering including, but not limited to, women and Black, Asian and Minority Ethnic groups.

Role Summary

• Work within UK Quantum Technology Research Hub in Sensing, Imaging and Timing (QuSIT) and related projects
• Operate within the Quantum Sensing Group, on the topic of atom interferometry for gravity gradiometry, and with a focus on laser systems for atom interferometry
• Analyse and interpret research findings and results 
• Contribute to generating funding 
• Contribute to licensing or spin out deals with demonstrated commercial success (such as revenues, asset or company sales, IP generated) and/or public understanding of the discipline or similar

Main Duties

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

• Contribute to the delivery of research relating to atom interferometry for gravity gradiometry, and laser systems for atom interferometry, supervised by the project leader 
• Apply knowledge in a way which develops new intellectual understanding
• Collect research data; this may be through a variety of research methods, such as scientific experimentation, literature reviews, and research interviews
• Analyse and interpret data
• Disseminate research findings for publication, research seminars etc
• Contribute to developing new models, techniques and methods 
• Present research outputs, including drafting academic publications or parts thereof, for example at seminars and as posters
• Supervise students on research related work and provide guidance to PhD students where appropriate to the discipline
• Contribute to writing bids for research funding
• Develop research objectives and proposals, including for own or joint research, with assistance of a mentor if required
• Undertake management/administration arising from research
• Contribute to enterprise, business development and/or public engagement activities of manifest benefit to the College and the University, often under supervision of a project leader
• Provide guidance, as required, to support staff and any students who may be assisting with the research
• Deal with problems that may affect the achievement of research objectives and deadlines
• Promote equality and values diversity acting as a role model and fostering an inclusive working culture.

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 laser 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.
• Experience of working in collaborative projects or teams.
• Skills in successfully leading, managing, supporting or mentoring others.
• Ability to contribute to research planning, management and administration processes.
• Co-ordinate own work with others to avoid conflict or duplication of effort.
• Knowledge, or willingness to learn, of the protected characteristics of the Equality Act 2010, and how to actively ensure day to day activity in own area that those with protected characteristics are treated fairly and equally.

Applicants should make sure to attach the following to their application:

• A full academic CV, including full publication list;
• A statement of previous research experience and how this aligns with the role (max 1 page);
• Contact details for three referees.

Informal enquiries to Professor Michael Holynski, email: M.holynski@bham.ac.uk 

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. We are also committed to sustainability, which is a key part of our strategy. You can find out more about our work to create a fairer university for everyone on our website.