Research Fellow in Experimental Quantum Technology

Requests for flexible working options will be considered (subject to business need).

Contract Type: fixed term for 6 months

See current salary scales.

Expected start date: October 2025 

About the role

Applications are invited for a 6 month full-time postdoctoral position in Experimental Quantum Technology at the University of Sussex. Applicants should have obtained a PhD in experimental quantum information, laser- or atomic physics and be able to demonstrate working experience in this field. The appointment is within the framework of the EPSRC Quantum Technology Hub: Quantum Computing via Integrated and Interconnected Implementations. The successful candidate will work in a team of experienced researchers led by Dr Matthias Keller.

The aim of the project is to combine two of the most successful techniques in quantum information processing, trapped ions and photons, and use them to create a distributed quantum network. The main challenge is the implementation of an efficient ion-photon interface based on strongly-coupled cavity-QED.

We have developed a multi-zone ion trap that incorporates zones for loading, quantum information processing, and a cavity-based ion-photon interface. The first part of the project is to test and characterise the ion trap system and implement a highly efficient ion-photon interface. This involves the setting up and testing of the system as well as simulating and implementing novel schemes for ion-photon entanglement.

Based on successful testing of the multi-zone trap, a second system will be established to implement a basic quantum network.

About you

Ideally, you will have a PhD in experimental quantum information, laser or atomic physics and be able to demonstrate working experience in this field.

The project requires working with a complex optical system with diode lasers, ultra-high vacuum systems, and control electronics to operate the experiment. Having experience and a good understanding of such systems is highly beneficial.

About our Division/School

Please find further information regarding the School of Mathematical and Physical Sciences.

The School of Mathematical and Physical Sciences is proud to hold a Bronze Athena Swan Award.

Why work here

Find out more about our reward and benefits package.

Find out about our equality, diversity and inclusion

Further Key Information

Please contact Dr Matthias Keller Phone: +44 (1273) 877673, M.K.Keller@sussex.ac.uk for informal enquiries.

For full details and how to apply click the 'Apply' button above. 

The University is committed to equality and valuing diversity, and applications are particularly welcomed from women and black and minority ethnic candidates, who are under-represented in academic posts in Science, Technology, Engineering, Medicine and Mathematics (STEMM) at Sussex.

Please note that this position may be subject to ATAS clearance if you require visa sponsorship.

The University of Sussex values the diversity of its staff and students, and we welcome applicants from all backgrounds.

The University requires that work undertaken for the University is performed in the UK. 

Visa Sponsorship Queries: This role has been assigned an eligible SOC code and meets the salary requirements for Skilled Worker Sponsorship if full time and appointed at Grade 7.4. Please consult our Skilled Worker Visa information page for further information about Visa Sponsorship.  

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