Post Doctoral Research Fellow in Quantum Information (Fixed Term)

Independent; Nottingham; Hybrid; GBP 36,000 - 39,000; Full time

Job summary

The University of Nottingham’s School of Mathematical Sciences invites applications for a full‑time researcher specializing in quantum information and entanglement theory. Working with Professor Gerardo Adesso and collaborators on an EPSRC/NSF project, you will pursue international‑level research on entanglement in heterogeneous chemical reactions and contribute to theory, methods, and publications.

You will develop objectives, write proposals, present findings at international venues, supervise

Qualifications

• Holding a PhD (or near completion) in mathematics, physics or a closely related discipline.
• Strong knowledge of quantum information theory and quantum entanglement.
• Experience of theoretical or mathematical research in quantum physics or a closely related area, with outputs appropriate to career stage.
• Ability to develop and apply analytical or computational methods to challenging research problems.
• Excellent oral and written communication skills, including presenting complex research clearly to specialist and non‑specialist audiences.
• Ability to organise and deliver research independently, manage competing priorities and meet deadlines.
• Ability to collaborate effectively with colleagues from different disciplines and institutions.

Responsibilities

• Undertake original research of international excellence in quantum information and entanglement theory.
• Develop research objectives and proposals for own and/or collaborative research area.
• Prepare papers for publication in leading journals and/or disseminate at conferences, workshops and meetings.
• Identify opportunities and assist in writing bids for research grant applications.
• Provide support, guidance and supervision to other staff and junior team members, where appropriate.
• Coordinate project meetings, workshops and resources, and support collaboration across the UK and US teams.

Skills

Quantum information theory

Quantum entanglement

Analytical methods

Computational methods

Academic writing

Education

PhD in mathematics, physics or related

Near completion of PhD

Job description

We are looking for a researcher, whose expertise lies in quantum information and entanglement theory, to work with Professor Gerardo Adesso and collaborators on an EPSRC/NSF-funded project entitled “Entanglement Witness of Heterogeneous Surface Reactions”. The central aim of the project is to investigate the role of quantum entanglement in heterogeneous chemical reactions, by combining quantum information theory, nanoscale sensing and theoretical modelling of open quantum systems. The project seeks to develop and apply methods to identify and quantify entanglement from experimentally accessible measurements, establishing whether genuinely quantum correlations arise in chemical processes and how they may influence reaction dynamics.

We believe that talented and inclusive teams deliver the highest quality research and are seeking applications from high quality candidates who enhance the diversity of our existing team. The School is committed to creating opportunities for people traditionally under-represented in Mathematical Sciences and strives to maintain an environment where people can be their authentic selves.

You will be able to carry out duties to the highest standard and to evidence how through your experience you will:

• Undertake original research of international excellence in quantum information and entanglement theory.
• Develop research objectives and proposals for own and/or collaborative research area.
• Prepare papers for publication in leading journals and/or contribute to the dissemination at national/international conferences, workshops and meetings resulting in successful research outputs.
• Identify opportunities and assist in writing bids for research grant applications.
• Provide support, guidance and supervision to other staff and junior team members, where appropriate in own area of expertise.
• Coordinate project meetings, workshops and resources, and support collaboration and decision-making across the UK and US teams.

We are looking for a confident, organised researcher who can evidence:

• Holding a PhD (or being near completion of a PhD) in mathematics, physics or a closely related discipline.
• Strong knowledge of quantum information theory and quantum entanglement.
• Experience of theoretical or mathematical research in quantum physics or a closely related area, with research outputs appropriate to career stage.
• Ability to develop and apply analytical or computational methods to challenging research problems.
• Excellent oral and written communication skills, including the ability to present complex research clearly to specialist and non-specialist audiences.
• Ability to organise and deliver research independently, manage competing priorities and meet agreed deadlines.
• Ability to collaborate effectively with colleagues from different disciplines and institutions.

This full-time post is available from 01 January 2027 (or as soon as possible thereafter) and will be offered on a fixed-term contract for a period of 24 months. Many of our team have flexible working patterns so we’re open to discuss flexible working arrangements with you.

If it sounds like you would be a good fit, we look forward to hearing from you.

Interviews are expected to take place in late November 2026.

For information about the School of Mathematical Sciences and active research themes see: http://www.nottingham.ac.uk/mathematics/index.aspx.

Informal enquiries may be addressed to Professor Gerardo Adesso email: [e-mail]. Please note that applications sent directly to this email address will not be accepted.

To find out more about the People and Culture in the School of Mathematical Sciences please visit our website: https://www.nottingham.ac.uk/mathematics/edi/edi.aspx

£35,608 to £38,784 per annum, depending on skills and experience.