Quantum technology is a cutting-edge field aimed at harnessing the unique nature of quantum mechanics to perform tasks that are impossible with conventional technologies. The Optics Division at the University of Strathclyde will be a focal point of the EPSRC Quantum Technology Hubs, and has received significant funding from the recent call to expand our multi-disciplinary research in both experimental and theoretical fields. These full-time posts are available from 1st October, initially for two years with the possibility of extension to up to five years. Three positions are for experimental projects, and two for theoretical positions.

This is a unique and exciting opportunity to be embedded within a major national initiative in quantum technologies, collaborating with researchers across a range of disciplines within the Sensing and Metrology, Quantum Communication and Quantum Enhanced Imaging Hubs, as well as those across the wider Hub network. The posts are as follows:-

Post 1 : Development of compact cold-atom atomic clock (Experimental)

Post 2 : Atom interferometers with BECs for ultra precise measurements of rotation and inertial forces (Experimental)

Post 3 : Development of an ultra-high sensitivity atomic magnetometer (Experimental)

Post 4 : Analysis of theoretical and experimental state comparison amplification. (Theoretical)

Post 5 : Analysis of theoretical measurement and performance limits of quantum enhanced imaging. (Theoretical)

The experimental positions with the Experimental Quantum Optics and Photonics (EQOP) Group will translate fundamental research in atom-photon interactions to applications in sensing and metrology. The specific projects are to build next-generation experiments to develop measurement devices for time/frequency standards, inertial forces, and magnetometry. These projects will, respectively, build upon systems of cold atoms, quantum gases and Bose-Einstein condensate, and thermal atomic samples. Each project will require designing and building precise laser, electronics and data collection systems in order to make exquisitely precise measurements through atom-laser interactions.

The theoretical positions within the long-established Computational Non-linear and Quantum Optics (CNQO) Group will look at enhancing proof-of-principle experimental techniques for extracting information from photonic quantum optical systems. The state comparison amplifier allows repeating of quantum messages, overcoming loss in message transmission. Quantum enhanced imaging improves performance over classical imaging. Both positions will require theoretical and computational analysis of optical systems and significant interaction with experimental groups in the UK.

You will have a good honours degree and PhD (awarded or expected imminently) in an appropriate discipline (or equivalent professional experience), with sufficient breadth or depth of knowledge in the relevant discipline/s to contribute to research programmes and to the development of research activities. You will also have relevant experimental/theoretical research experience for the position applied for, and a developing ability to conduct individual research work, disseminate results and prepare research proposals.

If you have a preference for one or more of the posts in particular please indicate which one(s) you are interested in on your covering letter. Otherwise you will be considered for all 5 posts.

Full time, fixed term for 24 months, £30,434 - £37,394

For an application pack click apply online below or contact Human Resources, University of Strathclyde, Glasgow G1 1XQ. Tel. 0141 553 4133, quoting ref: R92/2014

Closing date: 26 October 2014

We value diversity and welcome applications from all sections of the community

The University of Strathclyde is a Registered Scottish Charity, No SCO15263