Senior Researcher (Ion Trap Research Group)

Location: Atomic and Laser Physics, Department of Physics, Clarendon Laboratory Building, Parks Road, Oxford, OX1 3PU

Fixed term for 4 years

The post holder will be a member of the Oxford Ion Trap research group, jointly responsible with the head of the group, Prof David Lucas, for various research projects. Initially, these projects will be in the area of quantum networking. The post holder will share responsibility for operational management of the research group. The post holder will report to Prof Lucas and act as a team leader, setting clear research objectives, developing productive working relations and assisting with line-managing other members of the team. The post holder will contribute to their development through induction, appraisal, and coaching.

What We Offer

As an employer, we genuinely care about our employees’ wellbeing, and this is reflected in the range of benefits that we offer including: 

• An excellent contributory pension scheme
• 38 days annual leave
• A comprehensive range of childcare services
• Family leave schemes
• Cycle loan scheme
• Discounted bus travel and Season Ticket travel loans
• Membership to a variety of social and sports clubs 

About the Role 

The postholder will be expected to lead a programme of research, initially in the area of quantum networking, and develop research questions within discrete area(s) of ion trapping research, manage and monitor research resources and budgets and contribute to the strategic direction and setting standards for the work of the wider group. They will also be expected to develop ideas for generating research income, promoting the research area and write funding applications as well as carry out collaborative projects with colleagues in partner institutions and research groups.

About You

The post holder will hold a relevant PhD/DPhil together with signification post-qualification research experience, possess a high level of technical expertise in ion trapping experimental physics, experimental control software and hardware (including ARTIQ and Sinara systems). They will also have the ability to lead and motivate a team of research staff and have experience of managing a research budget.

Application Process

For further details about the role, please see the job description. You will be required to upload a supporting statement, CV, and the details of two referees as part of your online application (via the 'Apply' button above).

The closing date for applications is 12 noon on Tuesday, 19 May 2026. Interviews are expected to be held 2 June 2026.

Advert information