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- Tasks: Conduct experimental research in atomic, molecular, and optical physics with ultracold molecules.
- Company: Join Durham University, a leading institution in innovative research and education.
- Benefits: Enjoy opportunities for collaboration, professional development, and potential extensions of your contract.
- Why this job: Be part of groundbreaking research in quantum physics and contribute to exciting scientific discoveries.
- Qualifications: Experience with ultracold gases techniques and a strong background in physics is essential.
- Other info: Positions are available for up to 60 months, starting January 2026.
The predicted salary is between 36000 - 60000 £ per year.
Organisation/Company DURHAM UNIVERSITY Research Field Physics Researcher Profile Recognised Researcher (R2) Established Researcher (R3) Country United Kingdom Application Deadline 16 Dec 2025 – 00:00 (UTC) Type of Contract Other Job Status Full-time Is the job funded through the EU Research Framework Programme? Not funded by a EU programme Is the Job related to staff position within a Research Infrastructure? No
Offer Description
The Role
Several Postdoctoral Research Associate positions are available to pursue experimental research in the field of atomic, molecular and optical physics within the Durham Quantum Light and Matter group. The positions are associated with a new five-year Programme Grant on \”Quantum Many-Body Physics with Ultracold Polar Molecules\” funded by UK Research and Innovation (UKRI). The research builds upon our expertise in creating ultracold RbCs molecules in the rovibrational ground state and trapping them in rotationally magic traps. The post holders will work directly with Prof. Simon Cornish and other members of his research group within the Durham Quantum Light and Matter research section.
The goal of the research is to synthesise and study artificial quantum materials using ultracold molecules arranged in regular arrays to probe novel quantum phenomena in strongly interacting quantum systems. The use of molecules is motivated by their rich internal structure, combined with the existence of controllable long-range dipole-dipole interactions, long trap lifetimes and strong coupling to electric and microwave fields. The post holders will be expected to display the initiative and creativity, together with the appropriate skills and knowledge, required to work with Prof. Cornish to deliver the research goals. These include (1) the encoding synthetic dimensions in molecules confined in rotationally magic traps and (2) the creation of many-body quantum states of
molecules in optical lattices for quantum simulation (3) the production of strongly dipolar Bose-Einstein condensates of molecules. The post holders are therefore expected to have experience and familiarity with the techniques used in the study of ultracold gases, including the operation of magneto-optical traps, the production of quantum degenerate gases, optical trapping and optical lattices. The post holders are expected to be able to work effectively both independently and as part of a small research team. It is expected that the post holders will enhance the international contacts of the group through the presentation of work at international conferences and exchange visits to collaborators connected with the project. The post holders will also be expected to aid in the supervision of graduate students within the group as well as contributing to the undergraduate teaching within the Department.
The post is for an initial fixed term of 24 months, but may be extended to up to 60 months.
The post-holders will be employed to work on research projects which will be led by another colleague. Whilst this means that the post-holders will not be carrying out independent research in his/her own right, the expectation is that they will contribute to the advancement of the project, through the development of their own research ideas/adaptation and development of research protocols.
Successful applicants will ideally be in post by January 2026.
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Postdoctoral Research Associate in Quantum Light and Matter, Physics Department employer: Durham University
Contact Detail:
Durham University Recruiting Team
StudySmarter Expert Advice 🤫
We think this is how you could land Postdoctoral Research Associate in Quantum Light and Matter, Physics Department
✨Tip Number 1
Network with current and former members of the Durham Quantum Light and Matter group. Engaging with them can provide insights into the team's research culture and expectations, which can be invaluable during interviews.
✨Tip Number 2
Familiarise yourself with the latest advancements in ultracold gases techniques. Being well-versed in recent publications and breakthroughs will not only enhance your knowledge but also demonstrate your commitment to the field during discussions.
✨Tip Number 3
Prepare to discuss your previous research experiences in detail, especially those related to optical trapping and quantum degenerate gases. Highlighting specific projects and outcomes will showcase your expertise and suitability for the role.
✨Tip Number 4
Consider attending relevant conferences or workshops before applying. This will not only expand your professional network but also keep you updated on the latest trends in quantum many-body physics, making you a more attractive candidate.
We think you need these skills to ace Postdoctoral Research Associate in Quantum Light and Matter, Physics Department
Some tips for your application 🫡
Tailor Your CV: Make sure your CV highlights relevant experience in ultracold gases techniques, such as magneto-optical traps and optical lattices. Emphasise any previous research projects that align with the focus of the Durham Quantum Light and Matter group.
Craft a Strong Cover Letter: In your cover letter, express your enthusiasm for the position and the specific research project. Discuss how your skills and experiences make you a suitable candidate for the role, and mention your ability to work both independently and collaboratively.
Highlight Research Contributions: Detail your past research contributions, especially those related to quantum many-body physics or ultracold molecules. Include any publications or presentations at international conferences to showcase your expertise and commitment to the field.
Proofread and Format: Before submitting your application, thoroughly proofread all documents for clarity and grammatical accuracy. Ensure that your formatting is consistent and professional, making it easy for the selection committee to read your application.
How to prepare for a job interview at Durham University
✨Know Your Research
Make sure you have a solid understanding of the research focus at Durham University, particularly in atomic, molecular, and optical physics. Familiarise yourself with the specifics of the Programme Grant on 'Quantum Many-Body Physics with Ultracold Polar Molecules' to demonstrate your genuine interest and knowledge during the interview.
✨Showcase Relevant Experience
Highlight your experience with ultracold gases techniques such as magneto-optical traps and optical lattices. Be prepared to discuss specific projects or experiments you've worked on that relate directly to the responsibilities outlined in the job description.
✨Prepare for Collaborative Discussion
Since the role involves both independent and collaborative work, be ready to discuss how you’ve successfully collaborated with others in past research projects. Share examples of how you contributed to team dynamics and supported your colleagues.
✨Engage with Teaching and Supervision
As the position includes supervising postgraduate students and contributing to undergraduate teaching, think about your teaching philosophy and any relevant experiences. Be prepared to discuss how you would approach mentoring students and what teaching methods you find effective.
