Research Fellow in Quantum Information and Spacetime Full-time NEW

Research Fellow in Quantum Information and Spacetime

We invite applications for 2 Research Fellow positions at the David Potter Institute for Quantum Information and Spacetime (DPI-QIS), established at UCL in 2026 with an endowment from the David and Elaine Potter Foundation. The Institute works at the interface of quantum information theory and gravity, using quantum technologies to probe the quantum nature of spacetime. Successful candidates will work within a collaborative environment spanning the Departments of Physics and Astronomy, Mathematics, Computer Science, Philosophy and Science and Technology Studies. The Institute involves the theory groups of Profs Sougato Bose, Jonathan Oppenheim and Marika Taylor, the experimental group of Prof Peter Barker, and more than a dozen associate academics.

The research programme spans both theory and experiment, including:

• Developing low-energy experimental proposals to test for the existence of the graviton
• Developing the alternative hypothesis to quantum gravity (the postquantum theory of classical gravity) and comparing its predictions against quantum gravity
• Feasibility studies for experiments using quantum technologies, such as witnessing gravitationally mediated entanglement
• Conducting experiments using levitated harmonic oscillators in optical and magnetic traps
• Placing observational constraints on quantum vs classical theories of gravity via cosmological or astrophysical bounds

Postdocs in associated areas are also encouraged to apply, including quantum field theory, stochastic analysis, cosmology, general relativity, probability theory, open quantum systems, stochastic field theory, quantum information theory, formal verification, and AI in mathematics and physics. The postdocs will have academic freedom to pursue their interests.

Positions are expected to start in October 2027, or earlier by arrangement. For full consideration, applications should be received by 15 December 2026.

The post is initially funded for 2 years, with an anticipated start date of October 2027 or earlier by arrangement. The possibility of extending the appointment, potentially for a third year, may be considered subject to additional funding being secured.