Research Associate in Quantum Communications

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

Job summary

A leading university in the UK is seeking a Research Associate in Quantum Communications. This role involves conducting research on quantum key distribution and collaborating with experts in the field. Applicants should hold a PhD and have a background in experimental optics or quantum communications. The position is full-time for up to 18 months with a competitive pay package.

Benefits

Generous holiday entitlement

Defined benefits pension scheme

Flexible working

Qualifications

• Strong background in experimental quantum optics or photonics.
• Hands-on experience with optical/quantum communications.
• Track record of peer-reviewed publications.

Responsibilities

• Conduct experimental research on quantum key distribution (QKD).
• Collaborate with experts on quantum communications.
• Lead technical contributions to the QUANTA project.

Skills

Experimental optical communications

Quantum communications

Research project delivery

Team collaboration

Education

PhD in Physics or Electrical Engineering

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. 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.

Click here to view a copy of the full job description.

As a valued member of our team you can expect:

An exciting, positive, creative, challenging and rewarding place to work. We give you support, nurture your talent and reward success. You will benefit from a competitive reward package and a wide range of staff benefits, which includes a generous holiday entitlement, a defined benefits pension scheme, staff discounts, family‑friendly initiatives, flexible working and much more. Click to access our staff benefits page for further information and use our reward calculator to find out the total value of pay and benefits provided.

The University of Edinburgh holds a Silver Athena SWAN award in recognition of our commitment to advance gender equality in higher education. We are members of the Race Equality Charter and we are also Stonewall Scotland Diversity Champions, actively promoting LGBT equality.

The closing date for applications is 10 December 2025.

If invited for interview you will be required to evidence your right to work in the UK. Further information is available on our right to work webpages (opens new browser tab).

The University may be able to sponsor the employment of international workers in this role. This will depend on a number of factors specific to the successful applicant.