At a Glance
- Tasks: Develop cutting-edge quantum sensors for biomedical applications and collaborate with top clinicians.
- Company: Join the London Centre for Nanotechnology, a leader in nanotech research and innovation.
- Benefits: Gain experience in a dynamic environment with access to world-class facilities and resources.
- Other info: Be part of an interdisciplinary team at the forefront of quantum biomedical sensing.
- Why this job: Make a real impact in healthcare by translating quantum technology into clinical practice.
- Qualifications: PhD in experimental physics, materials science, or biomedical engineering preferred.
The predicted salary is between 60000 - 80000 £ per year.
About us
Professor John Morton’s group at the London Centre for Nanotechnology develops novel methods and devices for spin resonance and quantum sensing, with applications spanning materials science, biochemistry and, increasingly, biomedicine. We are appointing a Research Fellow to develop quantum sensors based on optically readable spin defects (such as nitrogen-vacancy centres in diamond) and translate them into biocompatible, in‑vivo‑ready devices. The successful candidate will join an interdisciplinary team working closely with clinicians and biomedical scientists as part of the UK Quantum Biomedical Sensing (Q‑BIOMED) Research Hub, the UK’s first quantum research hub dedicated to healthcare.
The London Centre for Nanotechnology (LCN) is an interdisciplinary enterprise between University College London, King’s College London and Imperial College London. In bringing together world‑class infrastructure and leading nanotechnology research activities, the Centre aims to attain the critical mass to compete with the best facilities abroad. The LCN has strong relationships with the broader nanotechnology and commercial communities, and is involved in much major collaboration. As the world’s only such facility to be located in the heart of a metropolis, the LCN has superb access to corporate, investment and industrial partners. It is at the forefront of training in nanotechnology, and has a strong media presence aimed at educating the public and bringing transparency to this emerging science.
The Q‑BIOMED Hub is led by UCL, supported by £24 million from UKRI and the NIHR, and brings together academic partners, NHS trusts, industry and patient groups to translate quantum sensing technologies into clinical practice, spanning cancer, cardiovascular disease, Alzheimer’s and infectious diseases.
About the role
This 18‑month post is funded as part of the UK Quantum Biomedical Sensing (Q‑BIOMED) Research Hub. The post holder will develop quantum sensors based on optically readable spin defects such as nitrogen‑vacancy (NV) centres in diamond and related colour centres and engineer these into biocompatible quantum sensor platforms suitable for in‑vivo biomedical sensing applications. The role will combine computational modelling of magnetic field distributions and sensor performance, materials and device engineering (spin defect characterisation, optically detected magnetic resonance (ODMR), sensor packaging and biocompatibility) with applied translational work, in close collaboration with clinicians and biomedical scientists within the Q‑BIOMED Hub, to take quantum sensing concepts from the laboratory towards real‑world, in‑vivo diagnostic use. The post holder will work closely with clinical partners to define performance requirements, design experiments addressing key translational challenges for use in physiologically relevant environments and disseminate results to both the quantum sensing and relevant clinical communities.
About you
The ideal candidate will hold a PhD in a relevant area of experimental physics, materials science, biomedical engineering, or a related discipline, or will have submitted their PhD thesis in a relevant field prior to taking up the appointment.
StudySmarter Expert Advice🤫
We think this is how you could land Research Fellow in Quantum Biomedical Sensors in London
✨Get Involved in Local Research Communities
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We think you need these skills to ace Research Fellow in Quantum Biomedical Sensors in London
Some tips for your application 🫡
Show Off Your Lab Skills:In the biotechnology field, it's super important to highlight your lab experience in your CV. Be sure to mention specific techniques or instruments you've mastered (think PCR, gel electrophoresis, etc.) and any relevant projects you've worked on. This will show UCL that you have the hands-on skills they need.
Tailor Your Technical Skills:Make sure to emphasise your technical skills, especially those relevant to the biotechnology sector. Include any software tools or programming languages you've used, like R or Python for data analysis, which could be key for this role at UCL.
Craft a Compelling Cover Letter:Since this is a full-time role, your cover letter should reflect not only your passion for biotechnology but also your long-term career ambitions. Share why you're excited about the work that UCL does and how you envision contributing to their goals. This shows that you’re not just looking for any job, but you're genuinely invested in this opportunity.
Include Your Papers and Projects:If you've published any papers or contributed to significant projects, mention them! These documents can boost your application and provide tangible evidence of your expertise in the biotechnology field. Don’t forget to link to any relevant publications or project summaries—this can set you apart from other candidates.
How to prepare for a job interview at UCL
✨Brush Up on Lab Techniques
Since you're eyeing a full-time gig in biotechnology, make sure you're well-versed in the lab techniques relevant to the role. Be ready to talk about PCR, CRISPR, or any specific methods mentioned in the job description at UCL. You might even be asked to demonstrate your understanding of these processes.
✨Know Your Bioinformatics Tools
Get comfortable with bioinformatics tools that are commonly used in the industry, like BLAST or Bioconductor. These are key in biotechnology, and having hands-on experience or at least familiarity can set you apart. Prepare to discuss any relevant projects you've worked on, especially if they involved data analysis or genomic research.
✨Show Your Teamwork Skills
Biotech often involves collaboration across multiple disciplines. Be ready to share stories that highlight your teamwork and communication skills, especially in research projects. Think about working with different teams at university or any internships – this is where you can show how well you fit into UCL's culture.
✨Research Recent Biotech Innovations
Stay updated on the latest trends and breakthroughs in biotechnology. Knowing what's happening in the field can help you engage in more meaningful discussions during your interview. Bring up recent articles or advancements that excite you, especially those related to the work being done at UCL. This shows your passion for the industry!
