Research Fellow in Experimental Quantum Technologies

Full Time Fixed Term for 18 months

Scalable Quantum Devices for the Future Quantum Internet

We seek an outstanding experimental physicist to join the Hybrid Quantum Networks Lab (HQNL) as part of the UK’s Integrated Quantum Networks (IQN) Hub. You will contribute to building the foundations of the future quantum internet by developing efficient quantum light-matter interfaces that operate within the telecommunication bands.

You will play a key role in the setup and delivery of next-generation portable quantum memory devices based on room-temperature alkali vapours, which will interface with single photon sources, including those based on semiconductor quantum dots. There is also scope to extend these devices to quantum frequency transducers for interfacing with strontium ion photon emission in the near ultraviolet. You will work both independently and collaboratively with our team as well as with national and international project partners, with opportunities to travel and contribute to a vibrant quantum technologies ecosystem.

We welcome applicants from diverse backgrounds and with a range of experiences. We encourage applications from researchers who are excited about this opportunity and ready to grow with our team. To be successful in this role, you will have:

• A PhD (or nearing completion) in Physics (e.g. atomic physics, quantum optics, or solid-state physics) or closely related fields.
• Proven expertise in experimental quantum optics, atomic physics, or solid-state systems.
• Experience designing and operating complex photonic systems, including free-space optics, fibre optics, integrated photonics, or cryogenic experiments.
• A strong track record of research dissemination through peer-reviewed publications and conference presentations.
• Strong problem-solving skills, self-motivation, and ability to collaborate in multidisciplinary teams.
• Commitment to fostering an inclusive, respectful, and supportive research environment.

This is a full-time fixed-term position for a 1.5-year duration (with potential for extension depending on funding).

About HQNL: We are an established experimental research group based in the Optoelectronics Research Centre (ORC) at the University of Southampton. We investigate quantum light-matter interactions across a range of physical platforms to build large-scale, hybrid quantum networks. Our work spans rare-earth-ion-doped solids, alkali vapours, quantum dots, and nonlinear photonic media, aiming to integrate these systems for global-scale quantum communication and information processing.

Informal enquiries are encouraged and can be directed to:

Dr Patrick Ledingham (p.ledingham@soton.ac.uk).

The ORC is proud to hold an Athena SWAN Bronze Award, recognising our support for the advancement of women in science. Our diverse community spans over 49 nationalities, and we offer a range of initiatives to support personal and professional growth, including mentoring schemes, an Early Career Researchers Forum, and the Women in Optics group. We also offer flexible, hybrid, and part-time working arrangements to help meet individual needs.

Applications for Research Fellow positions will be considered from candidates who are working towards or nearing completion of a relevant PhD qualification.  The title of Research Fellow will be applied upon successful completion of the PhD.  Prior to the qualification being awarded the title of Senior Research Assistant will be given.

Please upload your CV and cover letter in your application.

Further details:

As a university we aim to create an environment where everyone can thrive and are proactive in fostering a culture of inclusion, respect and equality of opportunity. 

Apply by 11.59 pm GMT on the closing date. For assistance contact Recruitment on +44(0)2380 592750 or recruitment@soton.ac.uk quoting the job number.

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