Applications are invited for the above post to work with Professor Gerardo Adesso and Dr Tommaso Tufarelli at the University of Nottingham, in collaboration with Dr Marco Piani at the University of Strathclyde, on a project funded by the Foundational Questions Institute (FQXi) entitled “Sentient observers in the quantum regime and the emergence of an objective reality” [http://fqxi.org/grants/large/awardees/view/__details/2016/adesso].

The project is within the FQXi “Physics of the Observer” remit and its central aim is to assess the emergence of objectivity and aim to provide a characterisation of consciousness within the standard framework of quantum mechanics, adopting the language of quantum information theory.

The successful applicant will specialise in theoretical research on quantum information theory, quantum foundations, and the quantum-to-classical transition. Together with the project investigators, the successful applicant will address questions such as: Can we define objectivity? Is there a fundamental speed limit for the onset of objectivity? What does it mean to observe a physical phenomenon? What makes an observer sentient? Does consciousness originate in quantum physics? Novel angles of these questions will be explored, and proof-of-principle models suitable for experimental test will be developed.

Candidates must hold or be near completion of a PhD, or equivalent, in a relevant branch of applied mathematics or physics. A strong knowledge of quantum mechanics, quantum information theory, and the mathematical description of open quantum systems is essential. In addition, a background in one or more than one of the following areas is highly desirable: quantum metrology; quantum correlations; quantum optics and optomechanics; many-body physics; complexity theory; neuroscience. Candidates should be confident, organised, have good communication skills and enjoy working as part of a team as well as independently. The successful candidate will be expected to contribute to the publication of scientific papers, to their dissemination at relevant workshops and conferences, and to their communication to the general public via blog contributions and engagement in outreach activities. They should have evidence that the quality and quantity of their previous research outputs is commensurate with their level of experience.

In recognition of its commitment to promoting women in science, The University of Nottingham is one of a small number of universities to hold a Silver Athena SWAN Award.

This position is available from 1 September 2016 or as soon as possible thereafter and will be offered on a fixed-term contract for a period of 12 months (full-time) or 24 months (0.5 FTE part-time). Please state within your application whether you wish to be considered for the full-time or part-time position.

For information about the School of Mathematical Sciences, which has strong and active research groups in areas including Mathematical Physics, see: http://www.nottingham.ac.uk/mathematics/index.aspx. Further information regarding the Quantum Correlations host group can be obtained from the website: http://quantumcorrelations.weebly.com

Informal enquiries may be addressed to Professor Gerardo Adesso email: gerardo.adesso@nottingham.ac.uk. Please note that applications sent directly to this email address will not be accepted. Full details and how to apply here: http://www.nottingham.ac.uk/jobs/currentvacancies/ref/SCI262316

The University of Nottingham is an equal opportunities employer and welcomes applications from all sections of the community.