Postdoctoral Research Associate

The successful candidate will join the Quantum Light and Matter (QLM) research section at Durham University's Department of Physics, a vibrant community working on the forefront of quantum science and technology, with experimental activities spanning cold atoms and molecules, thermal vapours and solid-state systems.

We are recruiting a Postdoctoral Research Associate on the project 'Quantum networking at telecom wavelengths with Yb qubits'. The research project is funded by the Engineering and Physical Sciences Research Council (EPSRC) and led by EPSRC Quantum Technology fellow Dr Tobias Franzen.

The project aims to develop a key technology for future quantum networks by combining arrays of single Yb atoms as a leading qubit platform with long-distance quantum networking over existing telecom fibre infrastructure. Possible applications include the scaling of neutral-atom quantum computing through distributed computing, as well as new tests of fundamental physics, such as exploring the interplay of general relativity and quantum mechanics through experiments with entangled clocks separated in space. To realise this vision, we are working on a modular ytterbium tweezer-array platform, compact laser setups, and cavity-enhanced atom-photon interfaces for efficient remote entanglement generation over telecom-wavelength optical fibre links.

We are seeking an ambitious and highly motivated researcher with a background in AMO physics, quantum optics, or related fields. The successful applicant will work closely with Dr Tobias Franzen to realise the project's goals. They will be expected to take an active role in all aspects of the project, contributing directly to the experiment and working with national and international collaborators, undergraduate and graduate students, other members of the research group and technical staff.

Key Responsibilities:
- Understand and convey material of a specialist or highly technical nature through presentations and discussions, leading to the presentation of research papers in conferences and publications.
- Prepare and deliver presentations on research outputs/activities to audiences including research sponsors, academic and non-academic audiences.
- Publish high quality outputs, including papers for submission to peer reviewed journals and papers for presentation at conferences and workshops.
- Assist with the development of research objectives and proposals.
- Conduct individual and collaborative research projects under the direction of the Principal Investigator.
- Work with the Principal Investigator and other colleagues to identify areas for research, develop new research methods and extend the research portfolio.
- Deal with problems that may affect the achievement of research objectives and deadlines by discussing with the Principal Investigator and offering creative or innovative solutions.
- Liaise with research colleagues and make internal and external contacts to develop knowledge and understanding and form relationships for future research collaboration.
- Plan and manage own research activity and research resources in collaboration with others, and contribute to the planning of research projects.
- Deliver training in research techniques/approaches to peers, visitors and students as appropriate.
- Be involved in student supervision and assist with the assessment of student knowledge.
- Contribute to fostering a collegial and respectful working environment which is inclusive and welcoming.
- Engage in wider citizenship to support the department and wider discipline.
- Engage in continuing professional development through participation in teaching programmes, membership of departmental committees, and attendance at relevant training and development courses.

The postdoctoral researcher will have opportunities to develop scientific leadership, build international collaborations, contribute to grant proposals and supervise students.

Person Specification — Essential Criteria:
- A good first degree in physics or a related subject.
- A PhD (or be close to submission) in AMO physics or a related subject.
- Experience in conducting high quality academic research.
- Demonstrable ability to write material of a quality commensurate with publication in highly-ranked journals.
- Demonstrable ability to present research papers at conferences and communicate complex information to specialists and within the wider academic community.
- Experience in experimental AMO physics.
- Demonstrable ability to work cooperatively as part of a team, including participating in research meetings.
- Ability to work independently on own initiative and to strict deadlines.
- Excellent interpersonal and communication skills.
- Experimental experience with single atoms or ions, quantum optics, cavity QED or a related area.
- Experience with optical systems (especially frequency stabilisation, spectroscopy, photonic interfaces, or optical cavities) and related experimental techniques.

Person Specification — Desirable Criteria:
- Strong publication record in peer-reviewed journals, commensurate with stage of career.
- A track record of presenting research at conferences, symposia, or meetings, commensurate with stage of career.
- Demonstrable ability to develop research proposals and designs in collaboration with other academics.
- Experience of overseeing students with respect to the development of their practical/research skills (e.g. acting as a demonstrator; supervising student projects/practicals).
- Experience designing, building, operating and troubleshooting complex experimental apparatus.
- Experience with one or more of the following: micro-cavities, cavity-QED, light-matter interfaces, laser cooling of atoms, molecules or ions, optical tweezers.
- Demonstrable ability to plan and manage independent research.
- Design, setup, alignment and operation of scientific laser setups.
- Basic knowledge of lab electronics.
- Programming for experiment control and data analysis.

Benefits:
- 30 days annual leave per year plus 8 public holidays and 4 customary days (42 days total).
- Generous pension scheme with automatic enrolment into the University Superannuation Scheme (USS).
- Cycle to work scheme, discounted local bus and train travel, ample campus parking, and Tusker Car Benefit Scheme for electric or hybrid vehicle leasing.
- Comprehensive professional development courses, apprenticeships and qualifications.
- Health and wellbeing support including discounted membership for sport and gym facilities and 24-7 Employee Assistance Programme.
- Outstanding Ofsted-rated on-site nursery and holiday camps for children aged 5–16.
- Family-friendly policies including generous maternity and adoption leave.
- Volunteering opportunities and exclusive staff discounts portal.
- Support for relocation including removal cost assistance, house hunting help, and visa cost coverage with interest-free loan for dependant visas.