At a Glance
- Tasks: Lead research on trapped molecular ion quantum simulators and design advanced laser systems.
- Company: Join the Department of Physics at the prestigious Clarendon Laboratory in Oxford.
- Benefits: Enjoy 38 days annual leave, a great pension scheme, and childcare services.
- Other info: Dynamic research environment with opportunities for career growth and collaboration.
- Why this job: Make groundbreaking contributions to quantum physics while collaborating with top scientists.
- Qualifications: PhD in relevant field and experience in atomic/molecular spectroscopy and quantum physics.
The predicted salary is between 35000 - 45000 € per year.
An exciting opportunity has arisen for a Postdoctoral Research Assistant in the Department of Physics. Reporting to the Principal Investigator (Jacob Blackmore), the post holder will be a member of a research group with responsibility for carrying out research towards the operation of a trapped molecular ion quantum simulator based around Sr+/SrF+. This role will include the design of laser systems, UHV assemblies and operation of a trapped ion experiment.
The post holder will be heavily involved in the design and development of the entire system and laboratory. It is expected that the post holder will take the lead in many measurements to demonstrate its capabilities. The post holder is expected to have knowledge of atomic and/or molecular spectroscopy; laser-cooling; quantum physics; and the operation of complex trapped ion, cold atom or molecule; or similar experiments. It is desirable that the post holder has experience of UHV assembly procedures; the artiq control system; the theory of diatomic molecules; the design of external cavity diode lasers.
The post holder provides guidance to less experienced members of the research group, including postdocs, research assistants, technicians, and PhD and project students. It is desirable that the post holder has experience in this area. As part of the trapped ion group at the department of physics, the post holder will be able to collaborate with a wide variety of skilled scientists across career stages and will be supported throughout the post. At present, the group consists of 8 experiments led by 5 independent PIs.
What We Offer
- An excellent contributory pension scheme
- 38 days annual leave
- A comprehensive range of childcare services
- Family leave schemes
- Discounted bus travel and Season Ticket travel loans
- Membership to a variety of social and sports clubs
About the Role
The postholder will manage their own academic research and administrative activities, develop ideas for generating research income and present detailed research proposals to senior researchers. They will also collaborate in the preparation of scientific reports and journal articles and occasionally present papers and posters and represent the group at external meetings/seminars, either with other group members or alone.
About You
The successful applicant will hold or be close to completion of a relevant PhD, have excellent communication skills, including the ability to write for publication. They will also have experience with atomic and/or molecular spectroscopy and a working knowledge of quantum physics and laser cooling.
Application Process
For further details about the role, please see the job description. You will be required to upload a supporting statement, CV, and the details of two referees as part of your online application. The closing date for applications is 12 noon on Thursday, 21 May 2026. Interviews are expected to be held in mid‑June.
Postdoctoral Research Assistant in trapped molecular ions employer: Corehr
The Department of Physics at the University of Oxford offers an exceptional work environment for a Postdoctoral Research Assistant in trapped molecular ions, fostering a culture of collaboration and innovation. With access to cutting-edge facilities and a supportive team of skilled scientists, employees benefit from generous annual leave, a robust pension scheme, and opportunities for professional development. This role not only allows for significant contributions to groundbreaking research but also encourages personal growth within a vibrant academic community.
StudySmarter Expert Advice🤫
We think this is how you could land Postdoctoral Research Assistant in trapped molecular ions
✨Tip Number 1
Network like a pro! Reach out to your contacts in the field of atomic and laser physics. Attend seminars or workshops where you can meet potential collaborators or mentors. Remember, sometimes it’s not just what you know, but who you know!
✨Tip Number 2
Prepare for interviews by brushing up on your knowledge of quantum physics and laser-cooling techniques. Be ready to discuss your previous research experiences and how they relate to the role. Practice common interview questions with a friend to boost your confidence.
✨Tip Number 3
Showcase your passion for the subject! During interviews, let your enthusiasm for trapped molecular ions and quantum simulators shine through. Share your ideas on how you could contribute to the team and the exciting projects at the Clarendon Laboratory.
✨Tip Number 4
Don’t forget to apply through our website! It’s the best way to ensure your application gets seen. Plus, we love seeing candidates who take the initiative to engage with us directly. Good luck!
We think you need these skills to ace Postdoctoral Research Assistant in trapped molecular ions
Some tips for your application 🫡
Craft a Compelling Supporting Statement:Your supporting statement is your chance to shine! Make sure to highlight your relevant experience in atomic and molecular spectroscopy, laser cooling, and any other skills that match the job description. We want to see how you can contribute to our research group!
Tailor Your CV:Don’t just send a generic CV! Tailor it to reflect your experience with trapped ions, UHV assembly procedures, and any leadership roles you've had. We’re looking for someone who can guide less experienced members, so showcase those mentoring experiences!
Show Off Your Communication Skills:Since excellent communication is key for this role, make sure your application reflects that. Use clear, concise language and structure your documents well. We want to see that you can write for publication and present ideas effectively!
Apply Through Our Website:Remember to apply through our website! It’s the easiest way for us to keep track of your application. Plus, you’ll find all the details you need about the role and the application process right there!
How to prepare for a job interview at Corehr
✨Know Your Stuff
Make sure you brush up on your knowledge of atomic and molecular spectroscopy, laser cooling, and quantum physics. Be ready to discuss specific experiments you've worked on, especially those involving trapped ions or cold atoms. This will show that you're not just familiar with the theory but have practical experience too.
✨Showcase Your Leadership Skills
Since the role involves guiding less experienced members of the research group, think of examples where you've taken the lead in a project or mentored someone. Be prepared to share how you approach collaboration and support within a team, as this will highlight your ability to contribute positively to the group dynamic.
✨Prepare for Technical Questions
Expect some technical questions related to UHV assembly procedures and the artiq control system. It’s a good idea to review any relevant projects or papers that demonstrate your expertise in these areas. Being able to explain complex concepts clearly will impress your interviewers.
✨Practice Your Presentation Skills
Since you'll be presenting research proposals and possibly papers at external meetings, practice summarising your past research succinctly. Focus on how you can communicate complex ideas effectively, as strong communication skills are essential for this role. Consider doing mock interviews with friends or colleagues to get comfortable.
