Postdoctoral Research Associate in Experimental condensed matter physics, device materials and nano-optics

About this role

Applications are invited for a Postdoctoral Research Associate position in experimental condensed matter physics and nano-devices, within the Di Martino Group at the University of Oxford. The project will explore the interaction of light with functional materials at the nanoscale, with a particular focus on antiferromagnetic and ferroelectric oxides, nonlinear optical phenomena, and plasmon-enhanced spectroscopy.

The successful candidate will develop and apply advanced optical techniques including dark-field spectroscopy, Raman spectroscopy, ultrafast and nonlinear optical measurements, and second harmonic generation (SHG) to investigate magnetic, electronic, resistive and ferroic functionality in thin film materials and nanodevices. The work will combine fundamental studies of symmetry breaking, domain dynamics, and light–matter interactions with the development of concepts relevant to next-generation information technologies, including neuromorphic and low-power computing architectures. The project offers considerable freedom for the candidate to shape the scientific direction and contribute to the development of new experimental capabilities in the group.

This is a full-time, fixed-term post for 2 years, working 37.5 hours per week.

Due to the nature of this post, the successful candidate will be required to undertake occupational health clearance relating to work with Category 3B and Category 4 lasers.

About You

With a background in experimental physics, materials science, electrical engineering, nano-optics, photonics, or a related discipline, you will be a self-motivated researcher capable of planning and delivering independent research projects within a collaborative environment.

You will hold, or be close to completing, a PhD in Physics, Materials Science, Engineering, Photonics, or a closely related field.

You will have experience of experimental research in areas such as optical spectroscopy, microscopy, photonics, condensed matter physics, materials and electrical characterisation, or related fields.

Excellent communication and interpersonal skills are also essential.

Experience with one or more advanced techniques, such as ultrafast spectroscopy, nonlinear optics, second harmonic generation, Raman spectroscopy, dark-field microscopy, or magneto-optical measurements, is desirable.

About the Project

The project aims to investigate emergent optical, electronic, and magnetic phenomena in functional thin film materials and nanodevices, including antiferromagnetic oxides, ferroelectric materials, and other quantum and correlated systems. Current research directions in the group include nanoscale optical probes of magnetic and polar order, plasmon-enhanced light–matter interactions, nonlinear optical imaging of domains, and optical studies of symmetry breaking in emerging functional materials.

A central theme of the project is understanding how nanoscale optical and electronic functionality emerges from complex material behaviour, and how these properties can be harnessed in future device concepts. The research spans fundamental condensed matter physics through to technologies relevant for sensing, information processing, memory, and neuromorphic computing.

How to Apply

You will be required to upload a CV and a Supporting Statement as part of your application.  Please do not attach any manuscripts, papers, transcripts, mark sheets or certificates as these will not be considered as part of your application.

Only applications received online by 12.00 midday (BST) on Monday 6^th July can be considered.

Interviews are scheduled to take place at the Department of Materials on Thursday 16^th July 2026 and you must be available on this date, either by Teams or in person.

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