At a Glance
- Tasks: Conduct groundbreaking research in experimental AMO physics and physical chemistry.
- Company: Join UCL, a top global university in the heart of London.
- Benefits: Enjoy 41 days annual leave, competitive salary, and excellent career development.
- Other info: Diverse and inclusive environment with strong support for under-represented groups.
- Why this job: Make a real impact in cutting-edge research with world-class scientists.
- Qualifications: PhD in AMO Physics or related field; experience with lasers and cold atoms preferred.
The predicted salary is between 39148 - 41833 € per year.
UCL is one of the world's top universities and based in the heart of London. It is a modern, outward-looking institution. UCL's staff and former students have included 33 Nobel prizewinners. It is a truly international community: more than one-third of our student body – more than 50,000 strong – come from 150 countries and nearly one-third of staff are from outside the UK.
About the role
The research activity that this position is connected to, within the Atomic, Molecular, Optical and Positron Physics (AMOPP) group of UCL's Physics and Astronomy Department, is related to experimental studies of cold and ultracold gas‑phase ion‑molecule reactive collisions within supersonic beams – a leading activity of its kind, both in the UK and worldwide. Gas‑phase ion‑molecule reactions are fascinating because they can take place even in the limit of absolute zero temperature. They govern the chemistry of the interstellar medium but also present an ideal platform to exert quantum control in laboratory studies.
The aim of this project is to study at low collision energies the reactions between the He+ ion and two polar molecules, in supersonic beams produced in a high‑vacuum apparatus. Ion‑molecule reaction rate coefficients are strongly dependent on the molecular rotational quantum state at low collision energies. The project will comprise two phases:
- Phase one will involve designing and implementing an electric‑field guide for focusing molecules in selected (non‑reactive) rotational states to the reaction observation region, to enable the demonstration of reactivity suppression.
- In phase two, microwave radiation will be used to transfer the molecules from non‑reactive to reactive states in order to probe the rotational‑state‑dependence of the reaction rate coefficients and effectively demonstrate a reactivity switch.
The successful candidate will also support ongoing research activities in the recently established research group of Dr Valentina Zhelyazkova, supported by the Royal Society University Research Fellowship scheme, and focused on developing an experimental program for studies of a range of ion‑molecule reactions in supersonic beams on various energy scales (from the ultracold regime, where quantum effects dominate the reactivity to the higher energies relevant for the astrochemistry of the interstellar medium), advancing the Rydberg atom–ion substitution approach and breaking new ground in ion‑molecule reaction studies at low energies. This position is funded for 2 years in the first instance.
About you
We are seeking a highly motivated individual, who holds or is about to obtain a PhD in experimental Atomic, Molecular and Optical (AMO) Physics, Physical Chemistry or a related field. Direct experience working with lasers and optics and cold atoms and/or molecules is desirable. Please note, appointment at Grade 7 is dependent upon having been awarded a PhD; if this is not the case, initial appointment will be at Research Assistant Grade 6B (salary £39,148—£41,833 including London Allowance of £5,197) with payment at Grade 7 being backdated to the date of final submission of the PhD thesis. Progression through the salary scale is incremental. Cost of living pay awards are negotiated nationally and are normally effective from 1st August each year.
For any queries about the role, please contact Dr Valentina Zhelyazkova on valentina.zhelyazkova@ucl.ac.uk.
What we offer
As well as the exciting opportunities this role presents, UCL also offers competitive benefits, such as:
- 41 days annual leave (including 6 University closure days and 8 UK bank holidays)
- Additional 5 days’ annual leave purchase scheme
- Defined benefit career average revalued earnings pension scheme (CARE)
- Cycle to work scheme and season ticket loan
- Enhanced maternity, paternity and adoption pay
- Employee assistance programme: Staff Support Service
Visit here to find out more.
Our commitment to Equality, Diversity and Inclusion
As London’s Global University, we know diversity fosters creativity and innovation, and we strive for our community to represent the diversity of the world’s talent. We are committed to equality of opportunity, to being fair and inclusive, and to being a place where we all belong. We therefore particularly encourage applications from candidates who are likely to be under‑represented in UCL’s workforce. These include people from Black, Asian and ethnic minority backgrounds; disabled people; LGBTQI+ people; and for our Grade 9 and 10 roles, women. We particularly welcome female applicants and those from an ethnic minority, as they are under‑represented within the UCL’s Physics and Astronomy Department at the level of the advertised position.
You can read more about our commitment to Equality, Diversity and Inclusion here.
Research Fellow in Experimental AMO Physics and Physical Chemistry employer: UK Dementia Research Institute
UCL is an exceptional employer, offering a vibrant and inclusive work culture in the heart of London, where innovation thrives among a diverse community of scholars. With competitive benefits such as 41 days of annual leave, a defined benefit pension scheme, and ample opportunities for professional growth, UCL fosters an environment that supports both personal and academic development. As a leading institution with a commitment to equality and diversity, UCL encourages applications from under-represented groups, making it a truly welcoming place for all.
Contact Detail:
UK Dementia Research Institute Recruiting Team
StudySmarter Expert Advice🤫
We think this is how you could land Research Fellow in Experimental AMO Physics and Physical Chemistry
✨Tip Number 1
Network like a pro! Reach out to current or former researchers in the AMO Physics field, especially those connected to UCL. A friendly chat can give you insider info and maybe even a referral.
✨Tip Number 2
Prepare for your interview by diving deep into the latest research in cold and ultracold gas-phase ion-molecule reactions. Show us you’re not just passionate but also knowledgeable about the cutting-edge work happening in the field.
✨Tip Number 3
Practice your presentation skills! You might need to explain complex concepts clearly and confidently. Grab a friend or mentor and run through your ideas – it’ll help you shine during interviews.
✨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 are proactive about their job search.
We think you need these skills to ace Research Fellow in Experimental AMO Physics and Physical Chemistry
Some tips for your application 🫡
Tailor Your Application:Make sure to customise your CV and cover letter for the Research Fellow position. Highlight your experience in experimental AMO Physics and any relevant projects you've worked on. We want to see how your background aligns with our exciting research activities!
Showcase Your Skills:Don’t forget to mention your hands-on experience with lasers, optics, and cold atoms or molecules. We’re looking for someone who can hit the ground running, so let us know how your skills can contribute to our research group!
Be Clear and Concise:When writing your application, keep it clear and to the point. Use straightforward language and avoid jargon unless necessary. We appreciate a well-structured application that makes it easy for us to see your qualifications.
Apply Through Our Website:Remember to submit your application through our official website. It’s the best way to ensure your application gets to us directly. Plus, you’ll find all the details you need about the role and our team there!
How to prepare for a job interview at UK Dementia Research Institute
✨Know Your Research Inside Out
Make sure you’re well-versed in the specifics of your research area, especially regarding cold and ultracold gas-phase ion-molecule reactions. Be prepared to discuss your previous work and how it relates to the project at UCL, as this will show your genuine interest and expertise.
✨Demonstrate Your Technical Skills
Since the role involves working with lasers, optics, and cold atoms or molecules, be ready to talk about your hands-on experience with these technologies. Bring examples of past projects where you successfully applied these skills, as practical knowledge is key for this position.
✨Prepare Thoughtful Questions
Think of insightful questions to ask Dr Valentina Zhelyazkova about the research group and ongoing projects. This not only shows your enthusiasm but also helps you gauge if the team and environment are the right fit for you.
✨Show Your Collaborative Spirit
UCL values teamwork, so be ready to share experiences where you’ve worked effectively in a group setting. Highlight any collaborative projects, especially those that involved interdisciplinary approaches, as this aligns with UCL's international community ethos.
