Research Associate in Quantum Optics and Optical Spectroscopy of Two-Dimensional Materials
$37,694–$47,389 year
On-site · Edinburgh, Scotland, United Kingdom
Job Summary
Research Associate in Quantum Optics and Optical Spectroscopy of Two-Dimensional Materials to perform world-leading experimental investigations of optical and quantum-optical properties in atomically thin semiconductors and van der Waals heterostructures. Design and optimize low-temperature and magneto-optical spectroscopy experiments (e.g., photoluminescence, differential reflectance, Raman, second-harmonic generation, SPDC) to explore excitonic, spin-valley, many-body, and quantum optical phenomena. Develop methods for quantum light generation and entangled-photon state characterization, and integrate layered materials with nanophotonic/metasurface platforms. The role includes data analysis, modeling, supervision of junior researchers, publication of results, and active collaboration with national/international partners. Access to cryogenic spectroscopy facilities, high magnetic field systems, single-photon detection, advanced nanofabrication, and automated assembly of 2D material heterostructures. Requirements include a PhD (or near completion) in Physics/Materials Science/Engineering or closely related field, extensive experience in optical spectroscopy of quantum materials, and demonstrated ability to design and run complex optical experiments. The position is based at Heriot-Watt University in Edinburgh, UK, with a fixed-term of 3 years and a grade 7 salary.
Required Qualifications
- PhD (or near completion) in Physics, Materials Science, Engineering, or a closely related discipline
- Strong background in condensed matter physics, semiconductor physics, optics, or quantum optics
- Demonstrated experience in optical spectroscopy of semiconductor or quantum material systems
- Experience with low-temperature optical spectroscopy, magneto-optical spectroscopy, time-resolved optical spectroscopy, nonlinear optical spectroscopy, quantum optical measurements, single-photon detection and photon-correlation measurements
- Experience designing, assembling, operating, and troubleshooting advanced optical experiments
- Experience working with two-dimensional materials, van der Waals heterostructures, twisted materials, moiré materials, semiconductor nanostructures, or related material systems
- Evidence of scientific productivity through peer-reviewed publications
- Ability to analyze and interpret complex experimental datasets
- Strong written and verbal communication skills
- Ability to work independently while contributing within a collaborative team
- Experience presenting results at conferences/workshops/seminars
- Desirable: exciton dynamics, spin-valley physics, many-body effects, quantum light sources, SPDC, entangled-photon generation, or quantum-state characterization
- Experience with cryogenic instrumentation and low-temperature measurements
- Experience with Python, MATLAB or similar programming environments
- Experience supervising or mentoring students
- Experience contributing to grant proposals or collaborative research projects
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