13359 - Research Associate in Quantum Communications

University of Edinburgh; City of Edinburgh; On-site; GBP 41,000 - 49,000; Full time

Job summary

A leading university in the UK is hiring a Research Associate to work on the EPSRC-funded QUANTA project focused on quantum communications. Candidates should have a PhD in a relevant field and experience in experimental quantum optics. This full-time position offers an exciting opportunity to work with a dynamic team and access to world-class research facilities.

Qualifications

• Proven track record of research in optical or quantum communications.
• Hands-on experience in experimental optical/quantum communications.
• Experience with peer-reviewed journal and conference papers.

Responsibilities

• Conduct research into quantum key distribution (QKD).
• Explore dual-use capabilities of 2D SPAD arrays.
• Develop novel multiplexing techniques for secure links.

Skills

Experimental quantum optics

Photonics

Optical communications

Simulation and experimental research

Collaboration skills

Education

PhD in Physics, Electrical Engineering, or related area

Job description

Grade UE07: £41,064 to £48,882 per annum

College of Science and Engineering / School of Engineering / Institute for Imaging, Data, and Communications (IDCOM)

Full‑time: 35 hours per week

Fixed term: up to 18 months, tentative start date 1 March 2026

The School of Engineering seeks to appoint a Research Associate in Quantum Communications. This Research Associate position will contribute to the EPSRC‑funded QUANTA project—Quantum Communications over Atmospheric Channels Aided by Detector Arrays—within the Institute for Imaging, Data, and Communications (IDCOM) at the University of Edinburgh, which is funded by EPSRC and in collaboration with colleagues at Heriot‑Watt University.

This role is UE07 and is available on a fixed‑term basis for up to 18 months.

We’re looking for a motivated researcher with a strong background in experimental quantum optics, photonics, or optical communications, eager to push the boundaries of secure global connectivity. You will conduct both simulation and experimental research into quantum key distribution (QKD), explore the dual‑use capabilities of 2D SPAD (Single‑Photon Avalanche Diode) arrays, and develop novel multiplexing techniques for high‑throughput secure links.

The Opportunity:

Join a cutting‑edge research initiative at the forefront of quantum communications and photonic sensing. This Research Associate (RA) position will contribute to the EPSRC‑funded QUANTA project—Quantum Communications over Atmospheric Channels Aided by Detector Arrays—within the Institute for Imaging, Data, and Communications (IDCOM) at the University of Edinburgh (UoE), which is funded by EPSRC and in collaboration with colleagues at Heriot‑Watt University (HWU).

The RA will lead University of Edinburgh’s technical contributions, working within a dynamic team with deep expertise in optical and quantum communications as well as in the design of SPAD detectors for sensing and communication applications. In particular, the role offers the opportunity to collaborate closely with:

• Prof Majid Safari (PI, Line manager, UoE), expert in quantum and optical communication systems using SPAD arrays.
• Prof Robert Henderson (CI, UoE), a pioneer in SPAD sensor design and integration.
• Dr Ross Donaldson (CI, HWU), expert in applied quantum communication and optical ground station technology.
• A PDRA recruited by HWU to work on the same project.
• Industrial advisory board made up of the supply chain, services providers, and end users.

You’ll have access to world‑class infrastructure, including:

• The Hub Optical Ground Station (HOGS) at HWU, featuring a 70 cm telescope, adaptive optics, and single‑photon detectors.
• Advanced lab facilities for optical communication testing and system integration.
• Advanced Single‑photon counting array technology.

Your skills and attributes for success:

Applicants should hold a PhD in Physics, Electrical Engineering or a clearly related area.

Proven track record of research in optical or quantum communications, or a closely related area.

Working knowledge and hands‑on experience of experimental optical/quantum communications.

Experience in delivering research project results, i.e., a record of peer‑reviewed journal and conference papers in a relevant area.

Capable of working independently and as part of a team.