Research Associate in Quantum Fibre Photonics (AP

Postdoctoral Research Associate: Pioneering UV-C Optical Fibre for Global Quantum Communication

The University of Bath, in collaboration with leading institutions including the Universities of Bristol, Strathclyde, and York, and Fraunhofer UK, presents a remarkable opportunity for a Postdoctoral Research Associate to join the Centre for Photonics. This 12-month, full-time position is at the forefront of developing advanced optical fibre technologies, specifically targeting ultraviolet (UV-C) quantum key distribution (QKD) for satellite communication networks. This project promises to extend the reach and security of quantum communication to an unprecedented global scale.

Your Opportunity for Impact:

This role offers a unique chance to significantly contribute to a cutting-edge research endeavor. You will be instrumental in designing, fabricating, and characterizing novel hollow-core optical fibres engineered for the demanding UV-C spectral region (100–280 nm). The primary objective is to create a fibre that acts as a superior mode-filtering solution, crucial for enabling secure quantum key distribution by maintaining polarization integrity. This directly addresses a significant challenge in the field of satellite-based quantum communication.

By engaging with this project, you will have the chance to:

• Expand your Expertise: Deepen your knowledge and practical skills in fibre fabrication, UV photonics, and quantum technologies.
• Contribute to Global Security: Play a pivotal role in developing a pathfinder platform for future global quantum networks, enhancing secure communication infrastructure worldwide.
• Collaborate with Leaders: Work within a well-resourced and highly collaborative project environment, benefiting from the collective expertise of multiple prestigious institutions.
• Utilize State-of-the-Art Facilities: Leverage the University of Bath's dedicated optical fibre fabrication cleanroom and advanced photonics laboratories.

Key Considerations for Aspiring Candidates:

To thrive in this role, candidates should possess a strong foundation in experimental photonics or quantum optics. Essential qualifications and skills include:

• A doctorate (or near completion) in experimental photonics, quantum optics, or a related field.
• Robust experimental skills and a solid understanding of optical waveguides and light-matter interactions.

While not essential, the following experience would be highly advantageous:

• Prior experience in optical fibre fabrication.
• Familiarity with hollow-core fibre technology.
• Background in ultraviolet photonics.

Important Note: A Grade 6 Research Assistant position, with a comparable reduction in responsibilities and title, may be considered for candidates who do not yet hold their PhD but are within six months of completion. Successful candidates in this category will be promoted to Research Associate upon award of their doctorate.

Why the University of Bath?

The University of Bath is committed to fostering a supportive, inclusive, and research-driven environment. As a member of the Research Staff, you will benefit from:

• Professional Development: Encouragement to undertake a minimum of 10 days of professional development per year (pro-rata).
• Vibrant Research Community: Become part of the Centre for Photonics, a dynamic collective of approximately 50 academics, researchers, and postgraduate students within the research-led Department of Physics.
• Commitment to Diversity and Inclusion: The University actively celebrates diversity and is dedicated to creating an equitable workplace, evidenced by its Silver Athena SWAN award and its status as a signatory of the Armed Forces Covenant and an accredited Disability Confident Leader.
• Comprehensive Benefits Package: Enjoy a wide array of benefits including free counselling, cycle-to-work schemes, electric vehicle salary sacrifice, staff discounts (gym, postgraduate tuition, language courses), generous pension contributions, substantial annual leave (including discretionary days for work-life balance), and access to various professional development resources.
• Relocation and Visa Support: For international candidates, relocation allowances, visa reimbursement, and interest-free loans are available to ease the transition.

This is an exceptional opportunity to contribute to groundbreaking research that will shape the future of global secure communication. If you are driven by innovation and eager to make a tangible impact, we encourage you to apply.