Postdoctoral Research Associate in Ultrafast Quantum-Enabled Immune Screening

This postdoctoral position focuses on developing a multimodal quantum sensing microscope by integrating NV-based quantum sensing with other imaging modalities for biological applications. Key responsibilities include designing experiments, acquiring and analyzing data, and validating quantum-sensing protocols on biological samples. Applicants require a PhD in physics or a related field, strong optics and quantum mechanics knowledge, and programming experience.

• We seek a talented, motivated Postdoctoral Research Associate to develop a multimodal quantum sensing microscope, integrating NV based quantum sensing with other imaging modalities and to validate it on biological samples in collaboration with other team members, academic and industrial partners.
• The project is expected to generate high impact publications and underpin integrated quantum sensing devices for biomedical applications. The post offers technical training, secondment opportunities with company and academic collaborators, and a tailored career development plan.
• Develop a multimodal quantum sensing microscope.
• Develop and validate quantum‑sensing protocols (optical/spin readout) and apply them to biological samples.
• Design experiments, acquire and analyse data, perform modelling/simulation as required.
• Contribute to IP generation and translational pathways.
• Collaborate effectively across the QPL and with external partners, share laboratory equipment responsibly.
• Supervise and mentor PhD and undergraduate researchers in daily lab activities.
• Disseminate results via high‑quality publications and conference presentations, present progress in group and project meetings.
• Maintain high standards of record‑keeping, data management and research integrity.
• Support lab operations (maintenance, vendor liaison) and contribute to outreach (talks, demos, public engagement).
• Contribute to the wider activities of the Quantum Bio-Imaging Group, QPL, Q-BIOMED Hub.

• PhD (or equivalent research experience) in physics, electrical engineering, or a closely related discipline
• or expected to have submitted their PhD thesis before commencing the post.
• Strong understanding of optics, solid‑state physics and quantum mechanics, preferred hands-on experience with SPAD arrays.
• Experience of programming (C++ or Python or MATLAB) for device control, data acquisition and analysis.
• Experience designing and conducting independent research projects, analysing complex datasets, and developing new experimental approaches.
• A strong publication record for career stage, including first-author publications in peer-reviewed journals and substantial contribution to manuscript preparation.
• Evidence of scientific communication through conference presentations, invited talks, seminars, outreach activities, or related public engagement.
• Proven ability to work independently, prioritise competing demands, and deliver research objectives to agreed deadlines.
• Experience supervising undergraduate, MSc, PhD, or research assistant projects.
• Ability to contribute effectively within a multidisciplinary research environment involving physicists, engineers and external collaborators.
• Experience in working with mammalian cells.
• Experience in the AI optimization of measurements.
• Evidence of innovation, problem-solving ability, and a strong interest in translational research and technology development.
• Demonstrated desire to become a well-rounded academic or entrepreneur, including a vision for the role beyond the direct project e.g. engagement with the local community, contributing to undergraduate student experience, fostering a positive research culture in the group/institute.

• Access to advanced optical/quantum laboratories and collaborative networks (academic & industrial).
• Training in technical and professional skills, opportunities for secondments.
• A supportive, inclusive culture committed to equality, diversity & inclusion and to researcher development.
• Rewards and Benefits: 33 days annual leave, plus 9 buildings closed days for all full-time staff.