At a Glance
- Tasks: Design and analyse quantum error correction protocols for cutting-edge quantum sensing.
- Company: Join The University of Sheffield, a world-class institution known for its diverse community and innovative research.
- Benefits: Enjoy 41 days of annual leave, flexible working options, and a range of discounts.
- Why this job: Be part of groundbreaking research that makes a real difference in the world of quantum physics.
- Qualifications: PhD in quantum physics or related field with expertise in quantum information theory required.
- Other info: This is a contract position for 12 months, starting October 2025.
The predicted salary is between 32000 - 48000 £ per year.
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Direct message the job poster from The University of Sheffield
The University of Sheffield is a remarkable place to work. Our people are at the heart of everything we do. Their diverse backgrounds, abilities and beliefs make Sheffield a world-class university.
We offer a fantastic range of benefits including a highly competitive annual leave entitlement (with the ability to purchase more), a generous pensions scheme, flexible working opportunities, a commitment to your development and wellbeing, a wide range of retail discounts, and much more. Find out more about our benefits (opens in a new window) and join us to become part of something special.
This post is funded by the ‘Integrating quantum sensors with bespoke quantum error correction’ project supported by the Engineering and Physical Sciences Research Council (EPSRC). The task of Ouyang’s group at the University of Sheffield considers the integration of quantum error correction (QEC) with quantum metrology, in particular, the channel estimation problem. This project will study specialized quantum error correction codes that maximise the quantum advantage attainable in the quantum estimation of classical fields, while also considering reasonable physical constraints that are imposed by the physical system.
You should have a strong background in theoretical physics, mathematical optimization theory, or quantum error correction, and have completed or be in the final stages of a PhD in this or a related discipline.
Main Duties And Responsibilities
- Design and analyse quantum error correction protocols for quantum sensing protocols.
- Attend regular meetings of the research group, and prepare reports on your work, including analysis of previous results and outlook for the future studies.
- Interact and closely collaborate with colleagues in the group, contributing to the team effort to meet objectives and use laboratory time efficiently.
- Provide supervision to junior researchers including master students and PhD students.
- Write manuscripts based on your work and the team’s work for research journals.
- Present work at external scientific meetings, planning well ahead of the deadline.
- Organise time to ensure very good knowledge of the background of the area of research, maintaining up-to-date knowledge of relevant literature.
- Be capable of planning your own research activities in discussion with your supervisor, incorporating issues such as the availability of resources, deadlines, project milestones and overall research aims.
- As a member of staff you will be encouraged to make ethical decisions in your role, embedding the University sustainability strategy into your working activities wherever possible.
- Carry out other duties, commensurate with the grade and remit of the post
Person Specification
Our diverse community of staff and students recognises the unique abilities, backgrounds, and beliefs of all. We foster a culture where everyone feels they belong and is respected. Even if your past experience doesn\’t match perfectly with this role\’s criteria, your contribution is valuable, and we encourage you to apply. Please ensure that you reference the application criteria in the application statement when you apply.
- PhD in quantum physics with a focus on quantum metrology, mathematical optimization or quantum error correction (assessed at: application/interview)
- Expertise in vector spaces, linear algebra, and quantum information theory (assessed at application/interview)
- Experience in writing manuscripts for peer-reviewed journals (assessed at: application/interview)
- Effective communication skills, both written and verbal, report writing skills, experience of delivering presentations. (assessed at: application/interview)
- Ability to develop creative approaches to problem solving with an appreciation of longer-term implications. (assessed at: application/interview)
- Ability to work in a team and to collaborate effectively with other researchers (assessed at: application/interview)
- Ability to assess and organise resources, and plan and progress work activities. (assessed at: application/interview)
- Understanding of convex optimization theory (assessed at: application/interview)
- Familiarity with mathematical optimization formulations of quantum state estimations in the local and global setting (assessed at: application/interview)
- Understanding of several important families of quantum error correction codes and weight enumerators of classical codes.
Further Information
Grade: 7
Salary: £38,249 per annum
Work arrangement: Full-time
Duration: 01.10.2025 for 12 months
Line manager: Research Fellow
Direct reports: N/A
Our website: https://www.sheffield.ac.uk/mps
For informal enquiries about this job contact Dr Yingkai Ouyang, Research Fellow on y.ouyang@sheffield.ac.uk
Next steps in the recruitment process
It is anticipated that the selection process will take place on the week commencing September 15 2025. This will consist of an interview and presentation. We plan to let candidates know if they have progressed to the selection stage on the week commencing September 8 2025. If you need any support, equipment or adjustments to enable you to participate in any element of the recruitment process you can contact hicks-hr@sheffield.ac.uk.
Our vision and strategic plan
We are the University of Sheffield. This is our vision: sheffield.ac.uk/vision (opens in new window).
What We Offer
- A minimum of 41 days annual leave including bank holiday and closure days (pro rata) with the ability to purchase more.
- Flexible working opportunities, including hybrid working for some roles.
- A wide range of discounts and rewards on shopping, eating out and travel.
- A variety of staff networks, providing opportunities for social interaction, peer support and personal development (for example, Race Equality, LGBT+, Women’s and Parent’s networks).
- Recognition Awards to reward staff who go above and beyond in their role.
- A commitment to your development access to learning and mentoring schemes
- A range of generous family-friendly policies
- paid time off for parenting and caring emergencies
- support for those going through the menopause
- paid time off and support for fertility treatment
- and more
More details can be found on our benefits page: sheffield.ac.uk/jobs/benefits (opens in a new window).
We are a Disability Confident Employer. If you have a disability and meet the essential criteria for this job you will be invited to take part in the next stage of the selection process.
We are a research university with a global reputation for excellence. Our ideas and expertise change the world for the better, making a real difference to society. We know that when people come together with different views, approaches and insights it can lead to richer, more creative and innovative teaching and research and the highest levels of student experience. Our University Vision (www.sheffield.ac.uk/vision) outlines our commitment to building a diverse community of staff and students that recognises and values the abilities, backgrounds, beliefs and ways of living for everyone.
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Research Associate in quantum metrology / quantum error correction employer: The University of Sheffield
Contact Detail:
The University of Sheffield Recruiting Team
StudySmarter Expert Advice 🤫
We think this is how you could land Research Associate in quantum metrology / quantum error correction
✨Tip Number 1
Familiarise yourself with the latest research in quantum metrology and quantum error correction. This will not only help you during the interview but also demonstrate your genuine interest in the field and the specific project at The University of Sheffield.
✨Tip Number 2
Network with current or former researchers from the University of Sheffield, especially those involved in quantum physics. Engaging in conversations can provide insights into the team dynamics and expectations, which can be invaluable during your interview.
✨Tip Number 3
Prepare to discuss your previous research experiences in detail, particularly any work related to quantum error correction or mathematical optimisation. Be ready to explain how these experiences have equipped you for the role and how you can contribute to the ongoing projects.
✨Tip Number 4
Practice your presentation skills, as you will likely need to present your work at external scientific meetings. Being able to communicate complex ideas clearly and confidently will set you apart from other candidates.
We think you need these skills to ace Research Associate in quantum metrology / quantum error correction
Some tips for your application 🫡
Tailor Your Application: Make sure to customise your application to highlight your relevant experience in quantum metrology and error correction. Refer directly to the job description and person specification to align your skills with their requirements.
Highlight Your Research Experience: Emphasise any previous research work, particularly in quantum physics or related fields. Include specific examples of projects you've worked on, especially those involving quantum error correction or mathematical optimisation.
Demonstrate Communication Skills: Since effective communication is key for this role, showcase your ability to write reports and present findings. Mention any experience you have in writing manuscripts for peer-reviewed journals or delivering presentations at scientific meetings.
Showcase Team Collaboration: The University of Sheffield values teamwork, so include examples of how you've successfully collaborated with others in research settings. Highlight your ability to supervise junior researchers and contribute to group objectives.
How to prepare for a job interview at The University of Sheffield
✨Showcase Your Research Background
Make sure to highlight your PhD work and any relevant research experience in quantum metrology or error correction. Be prepared to discuss specific projects, methodologies, and outcomes that demonstrate your expertise.
✨Prepare for Technical Questions
Expect questions related to vector spaces, linear algebra, and quantum information theory. Brush up on these topics and be ready to explain complex concepts clearly, as this will showcase your understanding and communication skills.
✨Demonstrate Team Collaboration Skills
Since the role involves working closely with colleagues, prepare examples of past collaborations. Discuss how you contributed to team efforts, supervised junior researchers, and effectively communicated within a group setting.
✨Plan Your Presentation
If a presentation is part of the interview process, ensure it is well-structured and engaging. Focus on your research findings and their implications, and practice delivering it to maintain confidence and clarity during the actual interview.