Research Associate – Optically Pumped Magnetic Sensors for Navigation (786716)

Faculty of Science

We are seeking highly a motivated experimental researcher who will be responsible for the development of Optically Pumped Magnetometers for Navigation within the Experimental Quantum Optics and Photonics group at Strathclyde.

FTE: 35 hours/week
Contract Type: Fixed Term (24 months)

Quantum Technology is a cutting-edge field aimed at harnessing the unique nature of quantum mechanics to perform tasks that are impossible with conventional technologies. The University of Strathclyde has established a position as a leading UK centre for Quantum Technology covering activities from fundamental and applied research through technology development to industrialisation. The University and the Department of Physics have as strategic aims to support and expand these activities through appointments of academic and research staff as well as postgraduate students.

The Experimental Quantum Optics and Photonics (EQOP) group is central to the activities of the EPSRC funded Quantum Technology Hub in Sensing and Timing with active research and development projects in atomic clocks and magnetometry.

This is part of an extensive programme seeking to translate fundamental research in atom-photon interactions to applications in sensing and metrology. A particular aspect of our work is technology development towards miniaturisation and ultimately manufacturability of atomic devices, that can be operated outside a laboratory environment.

Applications are invited for a postdoctoral research associate to join the atomic magnetometry team creating compact and portable geomagnetic field sensors, enabling accurate and resilient navigation with reference to the Earth’s permanent magnetic anomalies.

We are seeking highly a motivated experimental researcher who will be responsible for the development of the experimental capability, as well as benchmarking new techniques and protocols for use of these systems in the field.

The successful applicant will be based in the Department of Physics under the supervision of Dr. Stuart Ingleby, within the Experimental Quantum Optics and Photonics group at Strathclyde, working in collaboration with researchers developing miniaturised and portable atomic sensors. Candidates will have a PhD (or close to completion) in experimental atomic physics or have equivalent experience. Technical knowledge of implementation or application of magnetic sensors would be of advantage. An ability to prepare scientific publications and present research outcomes at local, national and international research meetings is expected.

The post will be available from February 2026.

Informal enquiries should be directed to Stuart Ingleby (stuart.ingleby@strath.ac.uk).

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