A position exists, for a Research Assistant/Associate in the Department of Engineering, to work on aperiodic quantum photonic devices.

The role

The Research Assistant/Associate will join the Integrated Quantum Photonics group, based in the Nanoscience Centre at the University of Cambridge, a newly founded research group that works on simulation, nanofabrication and optical characterisation of nano- and quantum photonic devices, integrating quantum light emitters.

They will work on a research project focused on the development of aperiodic photonic devices embedding light emitter for fundamental quantum optics experiments and for the realisation of single-photon devices and novel nano-lasers with enhanced performances for quantum technology applications. Their work will build upon our recent work in the area [see, for instance, Applied Physics Letters 117, 124006 (2020) and Applied Physics Letters 118, 011103 (2021)].

The key responsibilities and duties are

  • Carry out research in aperiodic photonic devices
  • Build optical setups for spectroscopical characterisation and quantum optics experiments
  • Acquire and analyse data
  • Simulate aperiodic photonic devices
  • Nanofabricate photonic devices
  • Write scientific manuscripts and conference contributions
  • Help with Master/PhD student supervision

About you

The skills, qualifications and experience required to perform the role are:

Education & qualifications:

  • Applicants should have, or be close to obtaining, a PhD in Physics, Materials Science, Engineering or related areas.

Specialist knowledge & skills:

  • Quantum photonics, quantum optics, nano-photonics, quantum dot and quantum well spectroscopy, nanofabrication, Finite-Difference Time-Domain simulations.

Interpersonal & communication skills:

  • Very good interpersonal and communications skills, including writing scientific manuscripts and delivery of oral presentations.

Relevant experience:

  • Experience in spectroscopy and quantum optics is highly desirable.
  • Experience in simulations and nanofabrication are desirable but not essential.

Further details

Funding is secured for 24 months. The initial contract will be for 12 months and should be extended, pending satisfactory performances.

Appointment at Research Associate level is dependent on having a PhD. Those who have submitted but not yet received their PhD will be appointed at Research Assistant level, which will be amended to Research Associate once the PhD has been awarded.

Salary Ranges

  • Research Assistant: £29,605 - £33,966
  • Research Associate: £36,024 - £44,263

Fixed-term: The funds for this post are available for 12 months in the first instance.

Once an offer of employment has been accepted, the successful candidate will be required to undergo a health assessment.

The University actively supports equality, diversity and inclusion and encourages applications from all sections of society.