Research Fellow – School of Physics and Astronomy – 107159 – Grade 7 Full-time

Postdoctoral Research Associate

Applications are invited for a postdoctoral research associate to join the UKRI Future Leaders Fellowship programme at the School of Physics and Astronomy, University of Birmingham. The position is available for up to three years (until May 2029).

The project focuses on nanoscale light-matter interactions, developing nanophotonic and plasmonic devices that enable strong coupling between light and quantum materials, including single emitters, molecules, and two-dimensional materials. The successful candidate will undertake experimental research involving nanofabrication, optical nanocavities, and advanced optical microscopy techniques to probe quantum and molecular systems at the nanoscale.

The responsibilities may include some but not all of the responsibilities outlined below:

• Develop research objectives and proposals for own or joint research, with assistance of a mentor if required
• Contribute to writing bids for research funding
• Analyse and interpret data
• Apply knowledge in a way which develops new intellectual understanding
• Disseminate research findings for publication, research seminars etc
• Supervise students on research related work and provide guidance to PhD students where appropriate to the discipline
• Contribute to developing new models, techniques and methods
• Undertake management/administration arising from research
• Contribute to Departmental/School research-related activities and research-related administration
• Contribute to enterprise, business development and/or public engagement activities of manifest benefit to the College and the University, often under supervision of a project leader
• Collect research data; this may be through a variety of research methods, such as scientific experimentation, literature reviews, and research interviews
• Present research outputs, including drafting academic publications or parts thereof, for example at seminars and as posters
• Provide guidance, as required, to support staff and any students who may be assisting with the research
• Deal with problems that may affect the achievement of research objectives and deadlines
• Promotes equality and values diversity acting as a role model and fostering an inclusive working culture.

Person specification:

• First degree in area of specialism and normally, a higher degree relevant to research area or equivalent qualification.
• Ability to communicate complex information clearly
• Fluency in relevant models, techniques or methods and ability to contribute to developing new ones
• Ability to assess resource requirements and use resources effectively
• Understanding of and ability to contribute to broader management/administration processes
• Contribute to the planning and organising of the research programme and/or specific research project
• Co-ordinate own work with others to avoid conflict or duplication of effort
• Knowledge of the protected characteristics of the Equality Act 2010, and how to actively ensure in day to day activity in own area that those with protected characteristics are treated equally and fairly