Research Associate in Photon-Mediated Interactions between Solid-State Quantum Emitters
Research Associate in Photon-Mediated Interactions between Solid-State Quantum Emitters
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Job Description
Directorate:School of Engineering & Physical Sciences
Grade:Grade
Contract Type:Full Time 1FTE) Fixed Term 24 Months)
Rewards and Benefits:33 days annual leave plus 9 buildings closed days (and Christmas Eve when it falls on a weekday) for all full time staff. Use our total rewards calculator: to see the value of benefits provided by HeriotWatt University
Detailed Description
At the heart of photonic quantum technologies are photonphoton interactions achieved when two singlephoton wave packets interfere at a beam splitter. Example applications include distribution of entanglement among independent quantum nodes or multiphoton boson sampling. This project aims to understand the fundamental limitations to the indistinguishability of a train of single photons from single solidstate quantum emitter and then extend this to single indistinguishable photons from multiple quantum emitters which can give rise to entangled multiparticle states referred to as Dicke states.
These photonmediated interactions between indistinguishable quantum emitters can lead to cooperative emission superradiance and remote entanglement of the atoms. Our goals are to investigate fundamental questions in condensed matter physics and quantum optics while implementing a technologically worldleading experiment to scaleup the number of quantum emitters which can be deterministically entangled. The research is a collaboration between by Profs. Gerardot Gauger and Malik at HeriotWatt University
Key Duties and Responsibilities
The key tasks of this project are to undertake research in the following areas:
- Probe the indistinguishability of a train of single photons from single solidstate quantum emitter and then extend this to single indistinguishable photons from multiple quantum emitters which can give rise to entangled multiparticle states referred to as Dicke states. Characterize the photonmediated interactions between indistinguishable quantum emitters to demonstrate and distinguish between cooperative emission superradiance and remote entanglement of the atoms.
- General tasks involve scientific research; analysis and interpretation of data; daily oversight of the activities of postgraduate and undergraduate project students in the laboratory; communication with other investigators involved in this collaborative project; preparation of scientific papers; presentation of research at conferences.
To carry out the research project to a high standard;
- Meeting planned milestones and deliverables.
- Reporting progress regularly to supervisors both verbally and in written reports
- Keeping clear written records of work done and storing data in accessible formats according to a system agreed with the project supervisor.
- To collaborate with partners within the project and others as appropriate:
- The post holder will join the Quantum Photonics Laboratory and will be expected to work collaboratively and cooperatively in a team environment; this involves shared use of laboratory equipment so effective communication between group members is essential.
- Assist the development of student research skills and be expected to contribute to the assessment of student knowledge in the context of teaching and supervision duties.
- The post holder will be expected to maintain and develop collaborations with internal and external partners in the field.
Dissemination of results:
- Attend group and project meetings communicating progress on a regular basis. Deliver presentations to project collaborators and the wider research community
- Write high quality research papers in English for the scientific literature.
- Disseminate results of research in peer reviewed journals and conferences and/or other appropriate media.
Other duties
- Contribute under supervision to the planning of research projects including the development of new grant/contract proposals. Make internal and external contacts to develop knowledge and understanding and form relationships for future collaboration.
- The successful candidate is also expected to be involved in our outreach activities with roles that can be tuned to the specific preferences of the candidate but will involve for example interviews talks for the general public and preparation of experimental demonstrators.
Education Qualifications and Experience
Essential Criteria
- A good first degree and doctorate in materials science physics chemistry engineering or related discipline. Candidates must have submitted their doctoral thesis before starting in post.
- A strong experimental background in one or more of the following fields: quantum optics or photonics atomic / molecular / solid state physics quantum information.
- Appropriate publication record for stage in career in the abovementioned fields.
- Ability to work as part of a team
- Commitment to adopting principles of diversity equity and inclusion in the workplace
- Experience in public presentations of scientific results (e.g. conference talks)
Desirable Criteria
- Previous experience with one or more of the following:
- Vacuum and cryogenics technology
- Control and measurement of quantum systems
- Programming for data acquisition and analysis
- Experience in leading the writing of scientific papers.
- Evidence of ability subject to opportunity to guide other researchers e.g. PhD students and undergraduate project students.
- Capability to be selfdirected and think innovatively.
About our Team
The Quantum Photonics Laboratory at HeriotWatt University (HWU) is engaged in research covering solidstate photonics and engineering coherent lightmatter interaction using quantum structures and devices. The group consists of about 30 members including 5 academics: Brian Gerardot Mauro BrotonsGisbert Margherita Mazzera Cristian Bonato and Christiaan Bekker. Research within the group includes twodimensional materials beyond graphene quantum dots in IIIV semiconductors and defects in wide bandgap materials such as SiC or diamond.
The group has wellequipped laboratories for quantum optics and highresolution laser spectroscopy of quantum nanostructures at cryogenic temperatures as well as newly refurbished cleanroom facilities for the fabrication of twodimensional devices. It collaborates with a number of research groups both academic and industrial within HWU the UK and internationally.
How to Apply
Please submit via the HeriotWatt online recruitment system 1 Cover letter describing their interest and suitability for the post; 2 Full CV
Applications can be submitted until midnight on Tuesday 6th May 2025.
Role is expected to start from 1st June 2025.
At Heriot Watt we are passionate about our values and look to them to connect our people globally and to help us collaborate and celebrate our success through working together. Our research programmes can deliver real world impact which is achieved through the diversity of our international community and the recognition of creative talent that connects our global team.
Our flourishing community will give you the freedom to challenge and to bring your enterprising mind and to help our partners with solutions that can be applied now and in the future. Join us and Heriot Watt will provide you with a platform to thrive and work in a way that also helps you live your life in balance with wellbeing and inclusiveness at the heart of our global community.
HeriotWattUniversity is committed to securing equality of opportunity in employment and to the creation of an environment in which individuals are selected trained promoted appraised and otherwise treated on the sole basis of their relevant merits and abilities. Equality and diversity are all about maximising potential and creating a culture of inclusion for all.
HeriotWattUniversity values diversity across our University community and welcomes applications from all sectors of society particularly from underrepresented groups. For more information please see our website also our awardwinning work in Disability Inclusive Science Careers welcome and will consider flexible working patterns e.g. parttime working and job share options.
Use our total rewards calculator: see the value of benefits provided by HeriotWatt University.
Required Experience:
IC
Employment Type
Full-Time
