Assistant/Associate Professor of Photonic Quantum Technologies

Assistant/Associate Professor of Photonic Quantum Technologies

Heriot-Watt University - School of Engineering & Physical Sciences

Edinburgh, United Kingdom

GBP 47,389 - GBP 69,488 per year

The Institute of Photonics and Quantum Sciences (IPaQS) at Heriot-Watt University in Edinburgh, UK is seeking applications for a faculty position at the Assistant or Associate Professor level in the field of Optical/Photonic Quantum Technologies, with a particular focus on technologies enabling quantum networks. The successful candidate is expected to build a vibrant independent research programme in quantum technology. The ideal candidate will also demonstrate a clear commitment to excellence in undergraduate and postgraduate teaching within the School of Engineering and Physical Sciences.

The candidate’s research is expected to complement and enhance the activities of the IQN Hub, to develop and lead innovative research initiatives, and secure external funding to support their endeavours. Relevant research areas include, but are not limited to, the following fields: quantum memories; quantum entanglement distribution networks; quantum communications for space; quantum components for networks; new quantum network protocols; quantum-safe communications; quantum light sources, detectors, repeaters/interconnects and integrated quantum photonics.

Key Responsibilities and Duties

• The successful applicant, as part of an active research and teaching team, will be responsible for the following key activities:
• Develop an internationally leading research programme, actively contributing to the university’s research profile;
• Actively pursuing research funding through the submission of high-quality grant proposals;
• Establishing collaborative research and teaching links inside and outside the university via academia, funding councils, industry, business and public bodies;
• Contributing to School, Institute and research group strategic planning where required, as well as carrying out general research administration;
• Representing the institution in a professional capacity, particularly regarding research dissemination and development e.g., conferences, meetings, with industrial partners, etc.
• Supervising and mentoring undergraduate students, postgraduate students and research associates’ research work;
• Teaching through the delivery of lectures, tutorials and laboratories, assessing the relevant students’ work as well as setting and marking examinations and coursework;
• Designing and developing teaching materials and new teaching methods, using personal research to inform teaching where appropriate;
• Carrying out general academic administration, including participation on committees and exam boards, taking responsibility for key discipline-specific administration tasks and mentoring students, and actively contributing to undergraduate student recruitment initiatives.
• Undertaking continuous professional development (CPD) and participating in staff development activities.

Education, Qualifications and Experience

Essential

• Applicants must possess a doctorate in Physics, or a closely related discipline and postdoctoral (or related postgraduate, or industrial) experience with specialisation in quantum optics, photonics or quantum communications, from an accredited university at time of appointment for this position.
• A demonstrated potential to develop and sustain a leading research programme that will lead to original, high-quality research outputs and competitive funding bids, and supports the supervision of students at both the undergraduate and postgraduate level.
• An ability to contribute towards teaching in core physics and engineering programmes and contribute to the development of new UG and PGT ones.
• Record of published research appropriate to career stage and opportunity.
• Ability to communicate effectively and collaborate constructively with colleagues, external partners, and stakeholders from a wide range of backgrounds, and a commitment to fostering an inclusive and supportive academic environment.
• For appointment as Associate Professor: a strong track record of securing research funding as principal investigator.

Desirable

• A track record of securing research funding and experience of PhD student supervision.
• Prior successful teaching experience and demonstrated commitment to student success.
• Demonstrated intercultural competence with diverse groups in research, teaching, and/or service.