Research Fellow in unlocking scalable quantum computing

UCL - Photonics Group / Department of Electronic and Electrical Engineering

Location: London, Hybrid

Salary: £39,148 to £45,103

Hours: Full Time

Contract Type: Fixed-Term/Contract

Placed On: 6th August 2025

Closes: 19th August 2025

Job Ref: B04-06396

About us

The Photonics Group of the UCL Department of Electronic and Electrical Engineering wishes to appoint a Research Fellow to work in the field of Unlocking scalable quantum computing with terahertz generation: QuanTera.

In this project we will develop the first photonically driven superconducting qubits operating at THz frequencies. The THz region of the spectrum is particularly underutilised in the field of quantum technologies which presents us with unique opportunities to develop novel technologies to explore this area of the electromagnetic spectrum and its application to quantum technologies.

About the role

This position will help to deliver the goals of the project by helping to develop the photonic integrated circuits needed to generate the THz control signals and deliver them into the cryogenic environment. The work will also focus on design, fabrication, and testing of THz superconducting circuits and making quantum measurements on the new systems. The post holder will be able to be involved in all aspects of the project, with a particular focus on development of the THz superconducting qubits.

The post is available for 24 months in the first instance. Further funding to support the post may be available. The salary range available is UCL Grade 7.31, £45,103 per annum (inclusive of London Allowance).

About you

Candidates should have a PhD (or about to submit) in Photonics, Quantum Technologies, Physics or a closely related field (e.g. Electronic / Electrical Engineering, Computer Science). They should have a track record of high-level research in THz systems, quantum technologies, integrated photonics or superconductors, and an in-depth understanding of the principles of photonic integrated circuit design. Experience of fibre optic systems construction and testing is essential, as well as in depth experience of making measurements of quantum optics or microwave systems.

Practical experience of cleanroom fabrication processes e.g. III/V semiconductor processing, Si photonic device processing or superconducting film deposition is desirable.

If the successful candidate has not yet been awarded their PhD, appointment will be made as a Research Assistant (Grade 6B). Payment at Grade 7 will be backdated to the date of final submission of the PhD thesis including corrections, once the PhD has been awarded. Research Assistant (Grade 6B): point 25-28. Salary range £39,148 to £41,833 (inc. London Allowance of £5,197 pa).

Application details:

• To apply for the role, click the 'Apply' button at the bottom or top of the page
• Applications close on 19th August at 23:59
• A job description and person specification can be accessed at the application link, as well as contact details for enquiries about the post

What we offer

As well as the exciting opportunities this role presents, we also offer some great benefits. Visit https://www.ucl.ac.uk/work-at-ucl/rewards-and-benefits to find out more

Our commitment to Equality, Diversity and Inclusion

We particularly encourage applications from candidates who are likely to be underrepresented in UCL’s workforce. These include people from Black, Asian and ethnic minority backgrounds; disabled people; LGBTQI+ people; and for our Grade 9 and 10 roles, women. Our department holds an Athena SWAN Bronze award, in recognition of our commitment to advancing gender equality.