Research Associate in Development of Novel Two-Dimensional Materials and Devices for Quantum Technologies

The Quantum Photonics Laboratory at Heriot-Watt University (HWU) is engaged in research covering solid-state photonics and engineering coherent light-matter interaction using quantum structures and devices. The group consists of about 25 members including 5 academics: Brian Gerardot Mauro Brotons-Gisbert Margherita Mazzera Cristian Bonato and Christiaan Bekker. Research within the group includes two-dimensional materials beyond graphene quantum dots in III-V semiconductors and defects in wide band-gap materials such as SiC or diamond. The group has well-equipped laboratories for quantum optics and high-resolution laser spectroscopy of quantum nanostructures at cryogenic temperatures as well as newly refurbished cleanroom facilities for the fabrication of two-dimensional devices. It collaborates with a number of research groups both academic and industrial within HWU the UK and internationally.

Detailed Description

The Quantum Photonics Laboratory seeks a talented scientist to undertake research on two-dimensional materials for quantum technologies. The goals of the post are to explore the suitability for 2D materials for various quantum technologies including acting as a host for quantum memories or as materials for single photon detectors. The project will include exploring and characterizing at room and cryogenic temperatures new types of 2D materials and fabricating heterostructure devices from these materials. The project will be conducted within the framework of an ERC Advanced Grant aiming to autonomously assembly high-quality novel 2D quantum materials and devices. The activity will be carried out under the co-supervision of Prof. Brian Gerardot and Dr. Mauro Brotons-Gisbert.

Key Duties and Responsibilities

The key tasks of this project are to undertake research in the following areas:

• Lead spectroscopic and structural characterization of new 2D materials at both room and cryogenic temperatures.

• Work closely with a team of researchers developing protocols for autonomous assembly of 2D heterostructures and apply this approach to fabricate fully functional quantum devices from the 2D materials.

• Contribute to the writing of funding proposals as opportunities arise to expand the research group and enable further investigation of novel 2D materials and devices.

• Contribute to the supervision and training of PhD and master students.

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 physics or a related discipline. Candidates must have submitted their doctoral thesis before starting in post.

• A strong experimental background in the following fields is expected: optical spectroscopy of 2D materials quantum optics or photonics solid state physics and cryogenics.

• Appropriate publication record for stage in career in the above-mentioned 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:

• 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 self-directed and think innovatively.

How to Apply

Please submit via the Heriot-Watt on-line recruitment system (1) Cover letter describing their interest and suitability for the post; (2) Full CV

Applications can be submitted until midnight on Monday 2nd June 2025.

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