Research Fellow in Quantum Sensing for Civil Engineering Applications

Salary: Full time starting salary is normally in the range £36,636 to £46,049 with potential progression once in post to £48,822

Contract Type: Fixed Term contract up to February 2028

Role Summary

We are seeking a highly motivated Research Fellow to lead the design and execution of large-scale laboratory and field trials of interest to civil engineers as part of the Quantum Technology Hub in Sensors, Imaging and Timing (www.quisit.org). The role involves collaborating with others, both within the University of Birmingham and wider to coordinate the trials and ensure that they are answering important research questions. This includes developing survey methodologies based on the desired outcomes ensuring all relevant data are collected. The role involves processing the data using existing and novel methods and working with others to develop both forward and inversion models. The postholder will work closely with interdisciplinary teams to advance the understanding and usability of quantum gravity data for real-world applications, including geophysical exploration, civil infrastructure, and environmental monitoring. This is an essential and exciting role in our journey to demonstrate the efficacy and benefits of quantum technology sensing for civil engineering applications. This is an excellent time to get involved as the quantum technology sensors reach maturity and we can demonstrate the benefits of the data.

The successful candidate will join a thriving quantum technology applications research base at the University of Birmingham spanning engineering, physics and earth sciences. The University has been active in quantum technologies since 2014 and now leads QuSIT. Bringing together academic partners from seven universities, the British Geological Survey and the National Physical Laboratory, this interdisciplinary Hub is active in translating quantum technology research into applications, including numerous collaborative projects with industry.

Applicants are expected to demonstrate academic citizenship, develop and maintain mutually respectful and supportive working relationships with staff and students, and ensure their role impacts positively on others. The Geotechnical Engineering Research Group, in the School of Engineering, is dedicated to research in underground space. The School of Engineering is home to the National Buried Infrastructure Facility (www.birmingham.ac.uk/nbif). The group promotes an open and inclusive culture, fostering a friendly, supportive and collaborative working environment.

Person Specification

The successful candidate will hold, or be near completion of, a PhD in physics, engineering, geophysics, or a related discipline. They will have a strong background in large-scale physical modelling, ideally in geophysics, and skills in data analysis and signal processing, along with proficiency in scientific programming (e.g. Python or MATLAB). The role requires excellent communication skills and the ability to work effectively in interdisciplinary teams.

Informal enquires can be made to Prof Nicole Metje, n.metje@bham.ac.uk  

To download the full job description and details of this position and submit an electronic application online please click on the Apply Online button below or visit our careers website;

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We value diversity and inclusion at the University of Birmingham and welcome applications from all sections of the community and are open to discussions around all forms of flexible working

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