Research Fellow School of Physics and Astronomy 106714 Grade 7

Position Details

School of Physics and Astronomy

Location: University of Birmingham Edgbaston Birmingham UK

Full time starting salary is normally in the range 36636 to 46049 with potential progression once in post to 48822

Grade: 7

Full Time Fixed Term contract up to August 2027

Closing date: 27th January 2026

Background

Light-matter interactions where light interacts with quantum matter (molecules atoms etc) have defined how we access control and utilize quantum properties. For example nanophotonic devices and high-finesse cavities have been widely used for quantum technology applications such as building atomic clocks atomic interferometry frequency combs gravitometers etc. On the other hand recent advancements in nanoplasmonics have significantly enhanced our ability to confine light at the nanometer scale and enhance interactions with molecules. This opening up a plethora of opportunities for exploring novel quantum phenomena previously inaccessible at ambient conditions.

This post involves the design of new nanophotonic devices that optimize light-matter interactions primarily with cold atoms and the development of schemes suitable for the next generation of quantum technology applications.

Role Summary

We seek an individual with theoretical background primarily in the research areas of nanophotonics and/or quantum optics. The successful candidate will perform computational calculations to design various nanophotonic and nanoplasmonic devices that allow for quantum entanglement and quantum interferometry to be realized. The successful candidate will also need to develop the necessary schemes and theoretical models for these systems.

Main Duties

• To take initiative in the planning of research
• To identify and develop suitable theoretical techniques and models for the collection and analysis of data
• Contribute to developing new models techniques and methods
• Collect analyse and interpret research data
• To ensure the validity and reliability of data at all times
• To maintain accurate and complete records of all findings
• Present research outputs including drafting academic publications or parts thereof for example at seminars and as posters
• Apply knowledge in a way which develops new intellectual understanding
• Disseminate research findings for publication research seminars by drafting and preparing the relevant documents
• To present findings to colleagues and at conferences
• Provide guidance as required to support staff and any students who may be assisting with the research
• Supervise students on research related work and provide guidance to PhD students where appropriate to the discipline
• Undertake basic management/administration arising from research
• Contribute to Departmental/School research-related activities and research-related administration
• Deal with problems that may affect the achievement of research objectives and deadlines

Person Specification

• Have (or expect to complete soon) a PhD in Physics (Theory) or related topic or have an equivalent level of professional qualifications and/or experience
• Expertise in one (or more) of the following disciplines: Plasmonics Nanophotonics quantum optics quantum chemistry or other related discipline
• Good skills in computational simulations for nanophotonic devices and/or analytical modelling of light-matter interactions
• High level analytical capability
• Ability to communicate complex information clearly
• Fluency in relevant models techniques or methods and ability to contribute to developing new ones
• Ability to assess resource requirements and use resources effectively
• Understanding of and ability to contribute to broader management/administration processes
• Contribute to the planning and organising of the research programme and/or specific research project
• Co-ordinate own work with others to avoid conflict or duplication of effort
• Knowledge of the protected characteristics of the Equality Act 2010 and how to actively ensure in day to day activity in own area that those with protected characteristics are treated equally and fairly

Informal enquiries to Prof Angela Demetriadou email:

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Use of AI in applications:We want to understand your genuine interest in the role and for the written elements of your application to accurately reflect your own communication style. Applications that rely too heavily on AI tools can appear generic and lack the detail we need to assess your skills and experience. Such applications will unlikely be progressed to interview.

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