Postdoc Position: Quantum Sensing with Molecular Spin Qubits

University of Glasgow; Glasgow; On-site; GBP 34,000 - 52,000; Full time

Job summary

University of Glasgow invites applications for a temporary Researcher post at Advanced Research Centre in Glasgow. The role focuses on deploying spin-optical measurements and advancing quantum sensing capabilities in molecular spins.

You will conduct pulsed optically detected magnetic resonance on molecular spins in ground and excited states, tackling nanoscale measurement challenges and enabling room-temperature operation for practical quantum probes in biosensing and nanoscale MRI.

Qualifications

• A PhD in physics/chemistry/materials science/engineering/a related discipline.
• Relevant experimental experience—e.g., spin resonance, molecular photophysics, solid-state defects.

Responsibilities

• Deploy advanced spin-optical measurements—primarily pulsed optically detected magnetic resonance—on molecular spins in both ground and excited states.
• Advance their capabilities for nanoscale measurement and control, enhanced couplings to sensing fields, room-temperature operation, and deployment as practical quantum probes for biosensing and nanoscale magnetic resonance.
• Focus on quantum measurement, with molecules synthesised by collaborators.

Skills

Spin resonance

Molecular photophysics

Solid-state defects

Experimental experience

Education

PhD in physics/chemistry/materials science/engineering or related discipline

Job description

Organisation/Company University of Glasgow Department Advanced Research Centre Research Field Physics » Quantum mechanics Physics » Solid state physics Physics » Chemical physics Physics » Optics Physics » Applied physics Chemistry » Physical chemistry Engineering » Materials engineering Researcher Profile Recognised Researcher (R2) Established Researcher (R3) Positions Postdoc Positions Application Deadline 17 Sep 2026 - 23:59 (UTC) Country United Kingdom Type of Contract Temporary Job Status Full-time Is the job funded through the EU Research Framework Programme? Not funded by a EU programme Is the Job related to staff position within a Research Infrastructure? No

Optically addressable molecular spins combine the coherence, optical readout, and room-temperature operation of solid-state spin qubits with the atomistic tunability of synthetic chemistry. For quantum sensing they open unprecedented target proximity through their ~1 nm size; attachment to desired locations through chemical techniques; engineered stronger couplings to sensing fields; and atom-by-atom tuning. We have demonstrated the potential of such systems as a distinctive quantum-sensing platform [see e.g., Phys. Rev. Lett. 133, 120801 (2024); JACS 147, 22911 (2025); MRS Bulletin 51, 312 (2026)].

The role.You will deploy advanced spin-optical measurements—primarily pulsed optically detected magnetic resonance—on molecular spins in both ground and excited states, and advance their capabilities for nanoscale measurement and control, enhanced couplings to sensing fields, room-temperature operation, and deployment as practical quantum probes for biosensing and nanoscale magnetic resonance. You will focus on quantum measurement, with molecules synthesised by collaborators.

What we’re looking for. A PhD in physics/chemistry/materials science/engineering/a related discipline; relevant experimental experience—e.g., spin resonance, molecular photophysics, solid-state defects.

What we offer.10+ person team spanning physics, chemistry, quantum engineering, and materials science; state-of-the-art experimental capabilities — including single-spin confocal pulsed ODMR from 4-300 K; world-class collaborators—including at Imperial, Cambridge, Tokyo; career development—conference travel, support for independent Fellowship applications, PhD-student co-supervision; visa and relocation support for 3-year contracts.

Details

Informal enquiries very welcome at any stage

We particularly welcome applications from candidates from groups historically under-represented in STEM, and are committed to fostering an inclusive, supportive, and flexible working environment.

Additional Information

Work Location(s)

Number of offers available 1 Company/Institute Advanced Research Centre, University of Glasgow Country United Kingdom City Glasgow Postal Code G11 6EW Street 11 Chapel Lane Geofield