Research Assistant/Associate in Quantum Photonics (Fixed Term)

Quantum Computing Jobs UK; Cambridge; On-site; CAD 62,000 - 86,000; Full time

Benefits offered by this job

Annual leave 21 days

Public holidays 8

Discretionary days

Pension scheme

Family-friendly policies

Professional development support

Job summary

University of Cambridge, Integrated Quantum Photonics group, is seeking a Research Assistant/Associate to design and fabricate photonic devices and perform optical characterisation. You will work on time-resolved spectroscopy and quantum optical techniques across cryogenic temperatures, contributing to cutting-edge nano-photonic research.

The role requires a PhD in a related field or progress toward one, and emphasizes strong communication and collaboration within a multidisciplinary team.

Qualifications

• PhD in Physics, Materials Science, Engineering, or related areas or near completion.

Responsibilities

• Design, nanofabrication and optical characterisation of photonic devices.
• Time-resolved photoluminescence spectroscopy and quantum optic techniques.
• Research at cryogenic temperatures.

Skills

Quantum photonics

Quantum optics

Nano-photonics

Nanofabrication

Spectroscopy

Communication skills

Education

PhD

Tools

Job description

Benefits

21 days annual leave + 8 public holidays + 13 discretionary days Pension scheme Family-friendly policies Support for professional development

Employment Details

• Salary: £33 – £46 pa
• Job Type: Contract
• Work Pattern: Full-time
• Work Location: On-site
• Seniority: Mid
• Education: Phd
• Posted: 28 Aug 2026 (6 days ago)

Role Overview

The Research Assistant/Associate will join the Integrated Quantum Photonics group, based in the Department of Engineering at the University of Cambridge, a research group that works on simulation, nanofabrication and optical characterisation of nano- and quantum photonic devices, integrating quantum light emitters.

The researcher will work on the design, nanofabrication and optical characterisation of photonic devices via time-resolved photoluminescence spectroscopy and quantum optic techniques, down to cryogenic temperatures.

Education and Qualifications

Applicants should have, or be close to obtaining, a PhD in Physics, Materials Science, Engineering, or related areas.

Specialist Knowledge and Skills

• Quantum photonics, quantum optics, nano-photonics, nanofabrication, Finite-Difference Time-Domain simulations, spectroscopy of quantum dots
• Interpersonal
• Communication skills
• Very good interpersonal and communications skills, including writing scientific manuscripts and delivery of oral presentations.

Relevant Experience

• Experience in spectroscopy and quantum optics is highly desirable
• Experience in simulations and nanofabrication are desirable but not essential

Appointment at Research Associate level is dependent on having a PhD. Those who have submitted but not yet received their PhD will be appointed at Research Assistant level, which will be amended to Research Associate once the PhD has been awarded.

The initial appointment will be for one year.

Salary Ranges

Research Assistant: £33,002 to £35,608

Research Associate: £37,694 - £46,049

Fixed-term: The funds for this post are available for 12 months in the first instance.

Contact Information

If you have any questions about this vacancy, please contact Dr Luca Sapienza () for queries of a technical nature related to the role. For queries on the application process, please contact: Sue Murkett: Electrical Engineering Divisional Administrator email: (Tel + 44 1223 760304).

Equality, Diversity and Inclusion

The University actively supports equality, diversity and inclusion and encourages applications from all sections of society.

The University has a responsibility to ensure that all employees are eligible to live and work in the UK.