RECRUITMENT ROLE PROFILE FORM
Job Title: Research Associate/Fellow in Physics & Astronomy
School/Department:School of Physics and Astronomy
Salary:Salary £25,513 to £37,394 per annum, depending on skills and experience (salary can progress to£39,107 per annum, subject to performance).
Job Family and Level: Research
Contract Status:Fixed-term contract for 3 years
Hours of Work:Full-time
Location: School of Physics and Astronomy, Nottingham
The Purpose of the New Role:
This aim of this project is to establish a quantum sensor prototype measuring rotation. This sensor will be based on ring shaped trapping geometries implemented on atom chips. Interference of atomic gases of rubidium-87 based on different spin states will be utilized in the gyroscope scheme. All aspects of the prototype development will be encompassed by the role, including design of chips, assembly and maintenance of a laboratory and portable apparatus, and implementation of measurement protocols. Ultimately performance test in controlled environments, e.g. by placing the prototype on a rotation platform. The successful candidate will assist the project lead in supervising a small team, especially during day-to-day laboratory work aspects. Due to the sensor’s reliance on a cold atom/quantum gas source and the aim of reaching an industrial grade prototype, close connections to related posts will be important
Main Responsibilities:
Main Responsibilities1. / Design and demonstrate the operation of a quantum gas gyroscope
2. / Optimise prototype in terms of sample use and performance
3. / Responsibility of day-to-day operation of setup and management of small scale purchases
4. / Contribute to the training and personal development of PhD students
5. / Assistance in technical management and reporting on the project
6. / Presentation and dissemination of project results in both oral and written communications including assistance in writing progress reports
7. / Organisational tasks within cold atom group and quantum technologies team
8. / Coordination with related project in cooperation with the project lead
Knowledge, Skills, Qualifications & Experience:
Essential / DesirableQualifications/ Education /
- An outstanding educational profile including an excellent first degree in Physics or related disciplines
- PhD in relevant discipline (or be close to completion)(1)
- Completed excellent PhD in Physics
Experience /
- Experimental research laboratory experience
- Research level knowledge of atomic physics and/or related areas
- Research experience in fields related to atomic physics, condensed matter physics and/or other relevant areas
General skills and Abilities /
- Excellent oral and written communication skills in English at all levels (1,3)
- Strong project management skills (3)
- Ability to work independently, focus to achieve results and work to tight deadlines (3)
- Excellent IT skills (1)
- Ability to teach undergraduates and graduates in laboratory skills and underlying science
- Electronics design and assembly
- Vacuum technology
- Mechanical design and construction
Technical Skills and Knowledge /
- Able to work within industry standards and specifications (1,3)
- Knowledge of relevant health & safety and environmental issues (1,3)
- Working knowledge of relevant software, e.g. Matlab, Solid Works and/or equivalent
Training /
- Demonstrable commitment to continuing professional development
- Willingness to undertake appropriate further training and to adopt new procedures as and when required (1,3)
Other /
- Willingness to travel (3)
- Commitment to observing Equality & Diversity policies at all times (1,3)
Stages in Assessment (shown in brackets):
1 = Application form and CV,
2 = Work-based test / presentation and questions,
3 = Interview.
Informal enquiries may be addressed to Dr Thomas Fernholz email: Please note that applications sent directly to this email address will not be accepted.