Postdoctoral Research Associate in Quantum Sensing with Molecular Spin Qubits in Glasgow

Overview
Molecular spins combine the coherence, optical readout, and room-temperature operation of solid-state spin qubits with the atomistic tunability and nanoscale modularity of synthetic chemistry. You will use this combination to develop a new class of quantum sensors for biosensing and nanoscale magnetic resonance.

Background
Optically addressable spins—most prominently the nitrogen-vacancy centre in diamond—have demonstrated the promise of spin-based quantum-sensing, e.g., sub-cellular magnetic-resonance spectroscopy under ambient conditions. However, quantum sensing involves a delicate balance: coherence thrives far from external influences, while proximity and strong interactions with targets optimise their detection. Molecular spins offer a compelling balance of such demands. At ~1 nm size, they open unprecedented target proximity, and chemical techniques allow them to be attached to desired locations, engineered for stronger coupling to sensing fields, and tuned atom-by-atom.

The role
You will deploy advanced spin-optical measurements—including pulsed optically detected magnetic resonance—on molecular spins in both ground and excited states. You will advance their capabilities for nanoscale measurement and control, enhanced couplings to sensing fields, room-temperature operation, and deployment as practical quantum probes. You will focus on quantum measurement, with molecules synthesised by collaborators.

What we offer
Vibrant team—more than ten researchers spanning physics, chemistry, quantum engineering, and materials science.
State-of-the-art experimental capabilities—including single-spin confocal pulsed ODMR from 4-300 K.
World-class collaborators—including at Imperial, Cambridge, Tokyo, with opportunities for lab visits.
Career development—conference travel, support for independent Fellowship applications, PhD-student co-supervision.

What we’re looking for
A PhD in physics/chemistry/materials science/engineering/a related discipline. Experimental experience with spin systems and their control—e.g., spin resonance, solid-state defects.

Job Purpose
To make a leading contribution to a project Developing Quantum Sensing with Molecular Spin Qubits working with Dr. Sam Bayliss. The successful candidate will also be expected to contribute to the formulation and submission of research publications and research proposals as well as help manage and direct this complex and challenging project as opportunities allow.

Main Duties and Responsibilities

• Take a leading role in the planning and conduct of assigned research individually or jointly in accordance with the project deliverables and project/group/School/College research strategy.
• Document research output including analysis and interpretation of all data, maintaining records and databases, drafting technical/progress reports and papers as appropriate.
• Establish and maintain your research profile and reputation and that of The University of Glasgow/ School/ Research Group, including establishing and sustaining a track record of independent and joint publications of international quality in high profile/quality refereed journals, enhancing the research impact in terms of economic/societal benefit, and gathering indicators of esteem.
• Survey the research literature and environment, understand the research challenges associated with the project & subject area, & develop/implement a suitable research strategy.
• Presentation of work at international and national conferences, at internal and external seminars, colloquia and workshops to develop and enhance our research profile.
• Take a leading role in the identification of potential funding sources and to assist in the development of proposals to secure funding from internal and external bodies to support future research.
• Take a leading role in developing and maintaining collaborations with colleagues across the research group/School/College/University and wider community (e.g. Academic and Industrial Partners).
• Take a leading role in team/group meetings/seminars/workshops and School research group activities to enhance the wider knowledge, outputs and culture of the School/College.
• Take the lead in the organisation, supervision, mentoring and training of undergraduate and/or postgraduate students and less experienced members of the project team to ensure their effective development.
• Perform administrative tasks related to the activities of the research group and School, including Budgets/Expenditure.
• Make a leading contribution to Teaching activities (e.g. demonstrating etc) and associated admin as assigned by the Head of School and in consultation with Principal Investigator.
• Keep up to date with current knowledge and recent advances in the field/discipline.
• Engage in personal, professional and career development, to enhance both specialist and transferable skills in accordance with desired career trajectory.
• Undertake any other reasonable duties as required by the Head of School/Director of Research Institute.
• Contribute to the enhancement of the University’s international profile in line with the University’s Strategic Plan, World Changers Together.

Knowledge, Qualifications, Skills and Experience

Knowledge and Qualifications

• A1 Normally Scottish Credit and Qualification Framework level 12 (PhD, or to obtain before starting the post) in a topic aligned with this position (e.g., physics, chemistry, materials science, engineering, or a related discipline), plus track record of emerging independence within a research/professional environment, or alternatively possess professional qualifications and experience equivalent to PhD level plus the requisite experience.
• A2 A comprehensive and up-to-date knowledge of the wider subject area or subject specialism including current issues and future directions.
• A3 Excellent and demonstrable practical and theoretical project-specific skills. This should include a suitable selection from: spin systems and their control, molecular photophysics.

Skills

• C1 Proven ability to deliver quality outputs in a timely and efficient manner.
• C2 Ability to demonstrate self-motivation, initiative, and independence in thought and work, suitable to the project, for example, as illustrated by identification of project objectives from assessment of the literature, design & analysis of experiments & drafting of papers.
• C3 Excellent communication skills (oral and written), including ability to communicate complex data/concepts clearly and concisely.
• C4 Excellent interpersonal skills including team working and a collegiate approach.
• C5 Appropriate capacity for research creativity and cross-discipline collaboration.

Experience

• E1 Sufficient depth of relevant research experience appropriate to an early career researcher.
• E2 Sufficient and demonstrable project-specific experience. This should include a suitable selection from: spin systems and their control, molecular photophysics.
• E3 A track record of presentation and publication of research results in quality publications/conferences.
• E4 Experience of making a leading contribution in academic activities.
• E5 Experience in undertaking independent research.
• E6 Commitment to open research, as appropriate to the discipline, through open data, open code, open educational resources and practices that support replication.
• E7 Commitment to supporting the career development of colleagues and to other forms of collegiality appropriate to the career stage.

Terms and Conditions
Salary will be Grade 7, £41,064 - £46,049 per annum. This post is full time (35 hours per week), and has funding available for up to 3 years in the first instance. Relocation assistance will be provided where appropriate. The University of Glasgow has a responsibility to ensure that all employees are eligible to live and work in the UK. If you require a Skilled Worker visa to work in the UK, you will be required to meet the eligibility requirements of the visa route to be assigned a Certificate of Sponsorship.

As a valued member of our team, you can expect:

• A warm welcoming and engaging organisational culture, where your talents are developed and nurtured, and success is celebrated and shared.
• An excellent employment package with generous terms and conditions including 41 days of leave for full time staff, pension.
• A flexible approach to working.
• A commitment to support your health and wellbeing, including a free 6-month UofG Sport membership for all new staff joining the University.

We believe that we can only reach our full potential through the talents of all. Equality, diversity and inclusion are at the heart of our values. Applications are particularly welcome from across our communities and in particular people from the Black, Asian and Minority Ethnic (BAME) community, and other protected characteristics who are under-represented within the University.

We endorse the principles of Athena Swan and hold bronze, silver and gold awards across the University. We are investing in our organisation, and we will invest in you too.

Closing Date: 17 September 2026 at 23:45pm