Job Description
Position Details
School of Physics and Astronomy
Location: University of Birmingham, Edgbaston, Birmingham UK
Full time starting salary is normally in the range £36,636 to £46,049 with potential progression once in post to £48,822
Grade: 7
Full Time, Fixed Term contract up to August 2027
Closing date: 27th January 2026
Background
Light-matter interactions, where light interacts with quantum matter (molecules, atoms etc), have defined how we access, control and utilize quantum properties. For example nanophotonic devices and high-finesse cavities have been widely used for quantum technology applications, such as building atomic clocks, atomic interferometry, frequency combs, gravitometers etc. On the other hand, recent advancements in nanoplasmonics have significantly enhanced our ability to confine light at the nanometer scale and enhance interactions with molecules. This opening up a plethora of opportunities for exploring novel quantum phenomena, previously inaccessible at ambient conditions.
This post involves the design of new nanophotonic devices that optimize light-matter interactions, primarily with cold atoms, and the development of schemes suitable for the next generation of quantum technology applications.
Role Summary
We seek an individual with theoretical background primarily in the research areas of nanophotonics and/or quantum optics. The successful candidate will perform computational calculations to design various nanophotonic and nanoplasmonic devices that allow for quantum entanglement and quantum interferometry to be realized. The successful candidate will also need to develop the necessary schemes and theoretical models for these systems.
Main Duties
- To take initiative in the planning of research
- To identify and develop suitable theoretical techniques and models, for the collection and analysis of data
- Contribute to developing new models, techniques and methods
- Collect, analyse and interpret research data
- To ensure the validity and reliability of data at all times
- To maintain accurate and complete records of all findings
- Present research outputs, including drafting academic publications or parts thereof, for example at seminars and as posters
- Apply knowledge in a way which develops new intellectual understanding
- Disseminate research findings for publication, research seminars, by drafting and preparing the relevant documents
- To present findings to colleagues and at conferences
- Provide guidance, as required, to support staff and any students who may be assisting with the research
- Supervise students on research related work and provide guidance to PhD students where appropriate to the discipline
- Undertake basic management/administration arising from research
- Contribute to Departmental/School research-related activities and research-related administration
- Deal with problems that may affect the achievement of research objectives and deadlines
Person Specification
- Have (or expect to complete soon) a PhD in Physics (Theory) or related topic, or have an equivalent level of professional qualifications and/or experience
- Expertise in one (or more) of the following disciplines: Plasmonics, Nanophotonics, quantum optics, quantum chemistry, or other related discipline
- Good skills in computational simulations for nanophotonic devices and/or analytical modelling of light-matter interactions
- High level analytical capability
- Ability to communicate complex information clearly
- Fluency in relevant models, techniques or methods and ability to contribute to developing new ones
- Ability to assess resource requirements and use resources effectively
- Understanding of and ability to contribute to broader management/administration processes
- Contribute to the planning and organising of the research programme and/or specific research project
- Co-ordinate own work with others to avoid conflict or duplication of effort
- Knowledge of the protected characteristics of the Equality Act 2010, and how to actively ensure in day to day activity in own area that those with protected characteristics are treated equally and fairly
Informal enquiries to Prof Angela Demetriadou, email: a.demetriadou@bham.ac.uk
View our staff values and behaviours here
Use of AI in applications: We want to understand your genuine interest in the role and for the written elements of your application to accurately reflect your own communication style. Applications that rely too heavily on AI tools can appear generic and lack the detail we need to assess your skills and experience. Such applications will unlikely be progressed to interview.
We believe there is no such thing as a 'typical' member of University of Birmingham staff and that diversity in its many forms is a strength that underpins the exchange of ideas, innovation and debate at the heart of University life. We are committed to proactively addressing the barriers experienced by some groups in our community and are proud to hold Athena SWAN, Race Equality Charter and Disability Confident accreditations. We have an Equality Diversity and Inclusion Centre that focuses on continuously improving the University as a fair and inclusive place to work where everyone has the opportunity to succeed. We are also committed to sustainability, which is a key part of our strategy. You can find out more about our work to create a fairer university for everyone on our website . 
