At a Glance
- Tasks: Lead experimental research in quantum technologies and develop innovative setups.
- Company: Durham University, a leading institution in physics research.
- Benefits: Full-time position with potential for extension based on performance.
- Other info: Collaborate with top researchers and enhance your academic network through international conferences.
- Why this job: Join a cutting-edge project exploring Rydberg excitons and contribute to groundbreaking discoveries.
- Qualifications: Experience in quantum optics or related fields and strong teamwork skills.
The predicted salary is between 29700 - 36300 £ per year.
A Postdoctoral Research Associate position is available to pursue experimental research in the field of quantum technologies within the Durham Quantum Light and Matter group. The position is associated with a project funded by the EPSRC.
The post holder will be expected to display the initiative and creativity, together with the appropriate skills and knowledge, required to lead and develop experiments to meet the project goals. The post holder will be expected to be familiar with excitons and solid-state quantum systems, have experience working in quantum optics, quantum technologies, atomic physics or related disciplines. The post holder is expected to be able to work effectively both independently and as part of a small research team. It is expected that the post holder will enhance the international contacts of the group through the presentation of work at international conferences. The post holder 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 aim is to explore the use of Rydberg excitons for photonic quantum technologies. The project is in its early stages, and your role will involve developing a cryogenic optical setup to study Rydberg exciton states, designing and fabricating devices as well as testing and characterising these devices. The aim is to explore the use of reconfigurable arrays of trapped ultra-cold atoms in next generation optical atomic clocks. This post is part of the CoCoRiCo consortium, which consists of 4 National Metrology Institutes and 5 university research groups from across Europe. Your role will be to contribute to the development of new techniques for trapping and manipulating atoms, as well as studies of systematic errors in tweezer array atomic clocks.
The successful candidate will be required to take a lead role in all aspects of the project, contributing directly to the experiment and working closely with Dr Liam Gallagher, collaborators, as well as graduate students and other members of the research group. You will be expected to undertake an active role in the laboratory development and activity.
This post is fixed term for 1 year with the possibility of extension based on performance and funding availability. The post-holder is employed to work on research/a research project which will be led by another colleague. Whilst this means that the post-holder 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 1st October 2026.
Postdoctoral Research Associate, Department of Physics in North East employer: EURAXESS Ireland
The University of Southampton is an exceptional employer, offering a vibrant work culture that fosters collaboration and innovation in the field of environmental science. As a Research Fellow, you will have access to cutting-edge resources and the opportunity to work alongside leading experts, enhancing your professional growth while contributing to impactful research on ocean biogeochemistry. Located in a dynamic academic environment, the university prioritises employee development and provides a supportive atmosphere for meaningful contributions to global scientific challenges.
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We think this is how you could land Postdoctoral Research Associate, Department of Physics in North East
✨Get Involved in Research Communities
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✨Show Off Your Research Projects
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✨Utilise Professional Networks
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We think you need these skills to ace Postdoctoral Research Associate, Department of Physics in North East
Some tips for your application 🫡
Highlight Your Research Experience:When applying for a full-time role in scientific research, make sure to emphasise your research experience prominently in your CV. Share specific projects you’ve worked on, the methodologies you used, and any significant findings. If you’ve published papers or presented at conferences, definitely include that too – it shows you’re on it in the academic world!
Tailor Your Cover Letter to the Research Area:Your cover letter should reflect your passion for the specific area of research at EURAXESS Ireland. Mention relevant experiences that align with the organisation’s goals or projects. This shows that you’ve done your homework and are genuinely interested in the position – plus, it helps us see how you’d fit into the team dynamics.
Showcase Your Data Analysis Skills:In scientific research, data analysis skills are a big deal! Make sure to detail any relevant analytical tools or software you’re familiar with, like R, Python, or statistical packages. Employers are keen to know you can handle the data-heavy elements of the role, so add specific examples where you’ve used these skills effectively.
Discuss Your Future Research Goals:In your motivation section, it’s a great idea to talk about your future research goals and how they align with the work being done at EURAXESS Ireland. This shows that you’re not just looking for any job, but rather a chance to contribute meaningfully to the field. We love to see applicants who are forward-thinking and enthusiastic about their research journey!
How to prepare for a job interview at EURAXESS Ireland
✨Showcase Your Research Skills
In scientific research, it’s crucial to demonstrate your ability to design and conduct experiments. Come armed with examples of past projects where you've developed hypotheses, collected data, and analysed results. Be ready to discuss any specific methodologies or tools you’ve used, like PCR techniques or statistical software.
✨Prepare for Technical Questions
Expect some technical questions specific to your field. Make sure you're up to speed with recent advancements in scientific research related to the role at EURAXESS Ireland. Brush up on concepts relevant to their projects and be prepared to discuss how you would approach a specific research problem or challenge they might face.
✨Know Your Publications
If you've authored or co-authored any papers, be prepared to discuss them! Highlighting your contributions to published research can really set you apart. It shows not only your expertise but also your ability to communicate complex ideas clearly, which is key in scientific research roles.
✨Exhibit Your Team Spirit
In full-time roles, collaboration is often at the heart of scientific research. Prepare examples that show how you've successfully worked in teams, dealt with conflicts, or contributed to group projects. We want to know how you can work effectively with the team at EURAXESS Ireland to drive research projects forward.
