Research Officer/Assistant Research Officer (Laser Physics & Spectroscopy)

Position Overview

Applications are invited for appointment as Research Officer/Assistant Research Officer in Laser Physics & Spectroscopy (Ref.: 534817), to commence as soon as possible for three years, with the possibility of renewal subject to funding availability. This position is ideal for an accomplished scientist eager to lead the establishment of a new, cutting-edge research facility and drive forward an ambitious research agenda in next-generation molecular sensing.

The successful candidate will play a central role in building and directing the Electric field-resolved Molecular Fingerprinting (EMF) Laboratory, a flagship initiative designed to advance high-sensitivity spectroscopic techniques for medical applications.

Key Responsibilities

• Lead the establishment and commissioning of a state-of-the-art EMF Laboratory, including instrument specification, procurement, installation, and optimization.
• Direct and manage the laboratory’s research program, advancing novel laser-based and infrared spectroscopic methods for molecular identification and sensing.
• Develop advanced experimental platforms, including ultrafast lasers, mid-IR sources, nonlinear optical systems, and high-precision detection architectures.
• Supervise and mentor postdoctoral scholars, graduate students, and research staff.
• Build collaborations across physics, chemistry, engineering, and life-science disciplines, and with external academic or industrial partners.
• Ensure laboratory safety, compliance, and operational excellence.

Required Qualifications

• PhD in Laser Physics, Optical Science, Spectroscopy, or closely related field.
• Demonstrated expertise in laser-based molecular spectroscopy, especially:
• Infrared / mid-infrared molecular fingerprinting
• Ultra-sensitive optical detection methods
• Laser system development and precision measurement
• Strong publication record in high-impact journals.
• Proven experience setting up complex experimental laboratories or laser-based instrumentation.
• Ability to lead interdisciplinary research teams and manage laboratory operations.

What We Offer

• Opportunity to build the laboratory from the ground up, with strong institutional support.
• Access to world-class research infrastructure and interdisciplinary collaboration opportunities.
• Support for student recruitment, proposal development, and international partnerships.
• Less experienced candidates can still apply and be considered for Assistant Research Officer.

The appointee will report directly to Prof. Ferenc Krausz (https://www.physics.hku.hk/people/academic_staff/teaching_staff/f_krausz/).

A highly competitive salary commensurate with qualifications and experience will be offered, in addition to annual leave and medical benefits. The appointment on fixed terms will attract a contract-end gratuity and University contribution to a retirement benefits scheme at 15% of basic salary for RO or 10% of basic salary for ARO. At current rates, salaries tax does not exceed 15% of gross income.

Application Instructions

The University only accepts online application for the above post. Applicants should apply online and upload an up-to-date C.V. (including publication list, preferably describing contributions to any non-lead-author publications), a cover letter (including direct responses to the selection criteria) not exceeding two pages and a research statement (describing prior research achievements, and future research) not exceeding two pages. Shortlisted applicants will be contacted for letters of recommendation from at least three referees. Review of applications will start as soon as possible and continue until April 30, 2026, or until the post is filled, whichever is earlier.

The University is an equal opportunities employer and is committed to equality, ethics, inclusivity, diversity and transparency