Research Associate in Quantum Communications
Share
Job Location:
Yearly Salary:
Posted on:
6 hours ago
Vacancies:
1 Vacancy
Job Summary
Grade UE07: 41064 to 48882 per annum
College of Science and Engineering / School of Engineering / Institute for Imaging Data and Communications (IDCOM)
Full-time: 35 hours per week
Fixed term: up to 18 months tentative start date 1 March 2026
The School of Engineering seeks to appoint a Research Associate in Quantum Communications.This Research Associate position will contribute to the EPSRC-funded QUANTA projectQuantum Communications over Atmospheric Channels Aided by Detector Arrays within the Institute for Imaging Data and Communications (IDCOM) at the University of Edinburgh which is funded by EPSRC and in collaboration with colleagues at Heriot-Watt University.
This role is UE07 and is available on a fixed-term basis for up to 18 months.
Were looking for a motivated researcher with a strong background in experimental quantum optics photonics or optical communications eager to push the boundaries of secure global connectivity. You will conduct both simulation and experimental research into quantum key distribution (QKD) explore the dual-use capabilities of 2D SPAD (Single-Photon Avalanche Diode) arrays and develop novel multiplexing techniques for high-throughput secure links
The Opportunity:
Join a cutting-edge research initiative at the forefront of quantum communications and photonic Research Associate (RA) position will contribute to the EPSRC-funded QUANTA projectQuantum Communications over Atmospheric Channels Aided by Detector Arrays within the Institute for Imaging Data and Communications (IDCOM) at the University of Edinburgh (UoE) which is funded by EPSRC and in collaboration with colleagues at Heriot-Watt University (HWU).
The RA will lead University of Edinburghs technical contributions working within a dynamic team with deep expertise in optical and quantum communications as well as in the design of SPAD detectors for sensing and communication particular the role offers the opportunity to collaborate closely with:
- Prof Majid Safari (PI Line manager UoE) expert in quantum and optical communication systems using SPAD arrays.
- Prof Robert Henderson (CI UoE) a pioneer in SPAD sensor design and integration.
- Dr Ross Donaldson (CI HWU) expert in applied quantum communication and optical ground station technology.
- A PDRA recruited by HWU to work on the same project.
- Industrial advisory board made up of the supply chain services providers and end users.
Youll have access to world-class infrastructure including:
- The Hub Optical Ground Station (HOGS) at HWU featuring a 70 cm telescope adaptive optics and single-photon detectors.
- Advanced lab facilities for optical communication testing and system integration.
- Advanced Single-photon counting array technology
Your skills and attributes for success:
- Applicants should holda PhD in Physics Electrical Engineering or a clearly related area
- Proven track record of research in optical or quantum communications or a closely related area
- Working knowledge and hands-on experience of experimental optical/quantum communications
- Experience in delivering research project results i.e. a record of peer-reviewed journal and conference papers in a relevant area.
- Capable of working independently and as part of a team
Click here to view a copy of the full job description
As a valued member of our team you can expect:
An exciting positive creative challenging and rewarding place to work. We give you support nurture your talent and reward success. You will benefit from a competitive reward package and a wide range of staff benefits which includes a generous holiday entitlement a defined benefitspension scheme staff discountsfamily-friendly initiatives flexible working and much more. Click to access ourstaff benefits page(opens new browser tab)for further information and use ourreward calculator to find out the total value of pay and benefits provided.
The University of Edinburgh holds a Silver Athena SWAN award in recognition of our commitment to advance gender equality in higher education. We are members of the Race Equality Charter and we are also Stonewall Scotland Diversity Champions actively promoting LGBT equality.
The closing date for applications is 10 December 2025.
If invited for interview you will be required to evidence your right to work in the UK. Further information is available on ourright to workwebpages(opens new browser tab).
The University may be able to sponsor the employment of international workers in this role. This will depend on a number of factors specific to the successful applicant.
Required Experience:
IC
Key Skills
- Laboratory Experience
- ELISA
- Immunoassays
- Mammalian Cell Culture
- Biochemistry
- Cell Biology
- Research Experience
- Cell Culture
- Molecular Biology
- Microscopy
- Research Laboratory Experience
- Western Blot
About Company
As a world-leading research-intensive University, we are here to address tomorrow’s greatest challenges. Between now and 2030 we will do that with a values-led approach to teaching, research and innovation, and through the strength of our relationships, both locally and globally.
