At a Glance
- Tasks: Develop advanced optical fibre technologies for quantum key distribution in satellite communication.
- Company: Join the University of Bath's Centre for Photonics, a hub of innovation and collaboration.
- Benefits: Generous leave, pension schemes, professional development, and local discounts.
- Other info: Inclusive environment with excellent career growth and support for diverse backgrounds.
- Why this job: Contribute to groundbreaking research in quantum technologies and make a global impact.
- Qualifications: PhD in experimental photonics or related field; strong experimental skills required.
The predicted salary is between 38784 - 46049 £ per year.
We invite applications for an exciting opportunity in the Centre for Photonics at the University of Bath. The role is available for up to 7 months as a Postdoctoral Research Associate position to develop advanced optical fibre technologies for ultraviolet (UV-C) quantum key distribution (QKD) in satellite communication networks. This well-resourced and collaborative project is led by the University of Bristol, with partners at the Universities of Strathclyde and York and Fraunhofer UK, and aims to extend the security benefits of quantum communication to a truly global scale.
Working closely with our collaborators, you will contribute to the development of a hollow-core optical fibre designed to operate in the UV-C spectral region (100–280 nm). The fibre will act as a mode-filtering solution that ensures secure quantum key distribution without disturbing the polarisation encoding—addressing one of the most challenging aspects of satellite-based quantum communication systems. You will design, fabricate, and characterise hollow-core fibres that are single-moded at UV-C wavelengths and exhibit temperature- and stress-independent polarisation behaviour. Your work will draw on the University of Bath’s research-grade optical fibre fabrication cleanroom and state-of-the-art photonics laboratories. The project offers an opportunity to expand your expertise in fibre fabrication, UV photonics, and quantum technologies, and to contribute to the development of a pathfinder platform for future global quantum networks.
You will hold (or be close to completing) a doctorate in experimental photonics, quantum optics, or a closely related discipline. Strong experimental skills and a solid understanding of optical waveguides and light–matter interactions are required. Experience with optical fibre fabrication, hollow-core fibre, or ultraviolet photonics will be advantageous but is not essential.
The Centre for Photonics is a collaborative research environment of around 50 academics, researchers, and postgraduate students. The Department of Physics at the University of Bath is a research-led department committed to providing a supportive and inclusive workplace. We strongly encourage applications from groups typically under-represented in UK physics departments.
This is a full time (36.5 hours per week) fixed term role with an expected start date of September 2026 until March 2027. Informal enquiries should be directed to Dr Kristina Rusimova.
As a member of Research Staff at the University of Bath, you will be encouraged to take up a minimum of 10 days professional development pro rata per year. A lower grade offer may be made (Grade 6) with comparable reduction in responsibilities and amendment in job title to Research Assistant, if a suitable applicant cannot be found to fill the Grade 7 position. Applicants will need to be within six months of their course completion date and will be promoted to Research Associate once their PhD has been awarded.
We consider ourselves to be a university where difference is celebrated, respected and encouraged. We have an excellent international reputation with staff from over 60 different nations and have made a positive commitment towards gender equity and intersectionality receiving a Silver Athena SWAN award. We truly believe that diversity of experience, perspectives, and backgrounds will lead to a better environment for our employees and students and encourage applications from all genders, backgrounds, and communities, particularly from under-represented groups, and value the positive impact that will have on the university. We are committed to maintaining a safe and secure environment for our students, staff, and community by reinforcing our Safer Recruitment commitment.
What we can offer you:
- Generous annual leave allowance with an additional 5 discretionary days so that you can enjoy a positive work life balance
- Generous employer contributory pension schemes
- Cycle to work scheme
- Electric vehicle salary sacrifice scheme
- Staff discount at Team Bath gym
- Staff benefits include discounted postgraduate tuition and language courses, alongside a wide range of personal and professional development opportunities such as apprenticeships, LinkedIn Learning, and more
- Local discounts, including free entry to the Holburne Museum in Bath
- A family-friendly workplace
- An excellent reward package that recognises the talents of our diverse workforce
- Relocation allowance
- Visa reimbursement and Interest-Free Loan to help with the cost of some immigration expenses
- Employee assistance services through Health Assured, including access to the Wisdom app
We’re committed to creating a health-supporting working environment where everyone can thrive and be at their best. We offer a range of resources to enable you to do that from your first day here, including:
- Staff support groups and networks
- A network of Staff Wellbeing Champions
- A suite of tools, resources and frameworks that enable you to be at your best and thrive
Closing Date: 03 Aug 2026
Department: Education & Research
Salary: £38,784 to £46,049
Research Associate in Quantum Fibre Photonics (SS13805) - Bath, BA2 7AY employer: University of Bath
The University of Bath is an exceptional employer, offering a dynamic work environment where collaboration and innovation thrive. With a strong commitment to professional development, employees benefit from comprehensive training opportunities and a supportive culture that values work-life balance. Located in a vibrant city, the university provides a fulfilling career path for those looking to make a meaningful impact in higher education.
StudySmarter Expert Advice🤫
We think this is how you could land Research Associate in Quantum Fibre Photonics (SS13805) - Bath, BA2 7AY
✨Get Involved in Research Communities
Dive headfirst into the scientific research world by joining relevant communities and forums. Engage in discussions, share your insights, and even attend conferences or seminars in your field. This not only boosts your visibility but can also lead to potential job opportunities—don't forget to connect with like-minded folks!
✨Show Off Your Research Projects
Have you worked on any cool research projects? Make it easy for potential employers to see your work by creating a portfolio or a personal website. This way, when you apply for roles like the one at University of Bath, you can point them to your projects and publications, showcasing your expertise directly.
✨Utilise Professional Networks
Networking is key in scientific research. Join professional bodies or organisations related to your field. They often have job boards and resources tailored for job seekers. Make connections with professionals who may know about openings or can give you tips on landing a full-time position.
✨Keep Your Eyes on Openings & Apply Directly
Don’t just rely on job boards! Keep an eye on the careers section of the websites of companies like University of Bath. Apply directly through their website because sometimes they post jobs there before anywhere else. Plus, it shows your proactive approach!
We think you need these skills to ace Research Associate in Quantum Fibre Photonics (SS13805) - Bath, BA2 7AY
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 University of Bath. 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 University of Bath. 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 University of Bath
✨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 University of Bath. 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 University of Bath to drive research projects forward.
