Research Associate – Calcium Optical Frequency References

University of Strathclyde; Glasgow; On-site; GBP 36,000 - 48,000; Full time

Job summary

University of Strathclyde invites applications for a Research Associate in the Ultracold Matter and Quantum Technologies group to develop a calcium optical frequency reference platform. The role focuses on hardware development for an atomic calcium optical clock and collaboration with national labs.

Experience with atomic metrology, lasers, optics and vacuum is highly desirable. The successful candidate will contribute to publications and present findings at local and international meetings.

Qualifications

• PhD in experimental atomic physics.
• Experience developing platforms for atomic sensors.
• Knowledge of lasers, optics and vacuum.
• Ability to publish and present research findings.

Responsibilities

• Develop high-performance hardware for optical frequency references.
• Benchmark techniques and protocols for practical sensing applications.
• Collaborate with NPL coinvestigators and Strathclyde investigators.
• Prepare publications and present results at meetings.

Skills

Experimental physics

Lasers

Optics

Vacuum systems

Scientific publications

Education

PhD in experimental atomic physics

Tools

Atomic sensors platforms

Job description

Research Associate – Calcium Optical Frequency References (851077)

FTE: 1

Contract Type:Fixed Term (36 months)

Closing Date:14/10/2026

Applications are invited for a postdoctoral researcher to join thequantum technologies team to develop a new sensing platform,specifically a new optical frequency metrology experiment – anefficient thermal atomic beam optical clock – in atomic calcium.We are seeking a focussed and motivated experimentalresearcher who will be responsible for the development of highperformance experimental hardware, as well as benchmarkingnew techniques and protocols for practical applications.

Your work will benefit from direct collaboration with coinvestigators Dr Helen Margolis and Dr Jacob Tunesi at theNational Physical Laboratory (NPL), as well as Strathclydeinvestigators also involved with the EPSRC funded QuantumTechnology Hubs.

Successful applicant will be based in the Ultracold Matter andQuantum Technologies (UMQT) group at Strathclyde, working incollaboration with researchers developing atomic sensors.Candidates will have a PhD (or equivalent) in experimentalatomic physics and practical experience of development ofplatforms for atomic sensors. Technical knowledge of atomicmetrology, including lasers, optics and vacuum, is highly desired.An ability to prepare scientific publications and present researchoutcomes at local, national and international research meetingsis expected.

The UMQT group has active research and development projectsin a wide variety of cutting-edge quantum technology projects.This is part of an extensive programme seeking to translatefundamental research in atom-photon interactions to applicationsin sensing and metrology. A particular aspect of our work istechnology development towards miniaturisation and ultimatelymanufacturability of atomic devices, that can be operated outsidea laboratory environment.

The University of Strathclyde has established a position as aleading UK centre for Quantum Technology covering activitiesfrom fundamental and applied research through technologydevelopment to industrialisation. The University and theDepartment of Physics have invested in academic appointmentsand the development of new state-of-the-art laboratory spaces,as part of a strategic aim to support and expand these activities.

Initial interviews have been scheduled for Wednesday 21st October 2026.

For informal enquiries, please contactDr Aidan Arnold, Reader [e-mail]

Research Associate – Calcium Optical Frequency References (851077)