Marie Curie Research Fellow School of Physics and Astronomy 106486 Grade 9

Position Details

School of Physics and Astronomy

Location: University of Birmingham Edgbaston Birmingham UK

Fixed salary of 51602.00 additional allowances may be applicable depending on circumstances

Grade: 9 (Spot)

Full Time Fixed Term contract up to August 2029

Closing date: 4th January 2026

UK and International travel may be required for this role

2 Positions Available

Background

To create and disseminate knowledge through conducting original research and through publication as appropriate to the disciplinary area.

The Alkaline Team specialises in ultra-cold atom research for applications such as clocks radar many-body physics and quantum chemistry. The physics underpinning the research is laser cooling and combining this technique with magnetic fields enables us to form magneto-optical traps (MOTs) to cool and trap ultra-cold strontium and ytterbium atoms daily. The redefinition of the SI unit of second as well as many aspects of quantum applications is based on atomic clocks and cold atom assemblies and many emerging quantum technologies also depend on these systems. So as the field of quantum technology rapidly evolves supporting fundamental physics and skill capabilities is of great interest.

In addition to access to four state-of-the-art labs equipped with laser systems five frequency combs one active hydrogen maser and one UTC rack among various other pieces of equipment successful applicants will receive on-the-job training and support as well as access to national and international conferences and secondments. We are seeking two hardworking and motivated students to join our research group comprising PhDs and Postdoctoral Researchers in a supportive and constructive environment. If you are interested in one of the positions please apply through the University of Birminghams online portal.

Please note that full funding is only available for non-UK students who successfully meet the mobility requirements for the Marie Curie Doctoral Network PhD positions.

Role Summary

The successful applicant must be able to work both independently and as part of a team. Strong analytical and practical abilities are required. Time management and excellent communication skills is highly desirable.

Research is likely to involve developing a national and international reputation through significant original research work and a clear record of impact and/or designing and developing innovative underpinning technologies.

Management and administration tasks are likely to include enterprise business engagement public engagement and similar activities that are of manifest benefit the College and University.

At the end of the project the candidates are expected to have contributed to the field of quantum technology by conducting independent research and producing a high-quality PhD thesis.

Main Duties

Research

Pursue sustained research activity through original research resulting in a PhD thesis including other research-related contributions through conference papers and presentations establishing a national and international reputation. Where appropriate for the discipline this may include some but not all of the responsibilities listed below.

• Make a contribution to research activities (papers and conference presentations)
• Publish research that results in a sustained respected reputation of international quality in the subject area and/or designing and developing innovative underpinning technologies.
• Provide advice internally.
• Referee and peer review articles for peer reviewed academic journals.
• Participate in high value impact activity in knowledge transfer and enterprise (including business engagement public engagement) that is of manifest benefit to the College and University.

Person Specification

At least oneoutput of research i.e. a publication paper conference paper or a presentation at a conference.

Research requirements

Develop a national reputation and a international profile through original research work. Evidence of success under the following headings as appropriate to the discipline:

• High level peer esteem as evidenced by

  • Cultivate a reputation in the UK reflected in high quality outputs a level of innovation impact on subject and recognition.

  • At least one peer reviewed research publications.

• Throughout the project engage in knowledge transfer and enterprise that is of manifest benefit to the College and University.

Also required is a BSc MSc or equivalent in Physics or Physics related subject. The applicant should not already have a PhD and should meet the Marie Curie mobility criteria.

Informal enquiries to Yeshpal Singh email:

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