The Quantum Photonics Laboratory at Heriot-Watt University seeks a talented and motivated scientist to start a new line of research on quantum technology with stoichiometric rare-earth crystals for quantum memory applications. Significant goals include the characterization of the optical and spin properties of different crystals, optimization of their electronic and spin coherence, and the implementation of quantum memory protocols in both bulk crystals and waveguide structures. The project is expected to lead to high impact scientific publications and to technological developments related to integrated quantum photonic devices for quantum communication and computation. The work will be conducted in the framework of a recently funded EPSRC grant involving world leading partners working in crystal growth, waveguide fabrication and coherent control of rare earth optical and spin transitions. It will be carried out under the supervision of Dr Margherita Mazzera, who is principal investigator of the funded project.
For more information, please send enquiry emails to Dr Margherita Mazzera (m.mazzera@hw.ac.uk).

To apply, please visit: https://www.hw.ac.uk/uk/jobs/job_SVJDMjk0MzA.htm

The application requires a CV, a cover letter explaining the motivation/interest in this project and the names and contacts of two referees. Candidates are invited to specifically highlight in their applications how they fulfil the essential criteria for the post, listed below.

Essential Criteria
• A PhD in physics, electrical engineering, or related subjects. Candidates must have submitted their doctoral thesis before starting in post.
• The ideal candidate will have a theoretical understanding and a strong experimental background in one or more of the following fields: solid-state physics, quantum photonics, and quantum information science.
• Previous experience with one or more of the following:
o Vacuum and cryogenics technology
o Laser stabilisation
o Optical and/or radio-frequency technology
o Control and measurement of quantum systems
• A demonstrated track-record (during a PhD degree or post-doctoral research) in the above-mentioned fields.
• Experience of programming for data acquisition and analysis.
• A record of high-quality publications, as appropriate for the stage in career, and evidence of contribution to the writing of these publications proportionate to opportunity.
• Ability to articulate research work, both in technical reports / papers and by oral presentation
• Ability to formulate and progress work on their own initiative
• Evidence of research ability: problem solving, flexibility
• Must be able to work as part of a team on the experiments at Heriot-Watt and more widely with the collaborators at other Universities
• Experience in public presentations of scientific results (e.g. conference talks)

Desirable Criteria
• Experience in leading the writing of scientific papers.
• Evidence of ability, subject to opportunity, to guide other researchers, e.g. PhD students and undergraduate project students.
• Experience of research-student supervision.
• Capability to be self-directed and think innovatively.