Research Associate – Open Quantum Systems Descriptions of Molecular Systems
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Base pay range
The University of Sheffield offers a competitive salary based on skills and experience.
Salary: £38,249 – £41,064 per annum
Position summary
The project investigates the origins of singlet fission, a process where a single photon creates a singlet state that rapidly decays into two triplet states. Understanding this mechanism requires insight into quantum coherence, vibrational interactions, and charge transfer. The role combines open quantum systems theory, quantum information, and chemistry to explore these phenomena.
Main Duties and Responsibilities
* Develop open quantum systems formalism to simulate molecular dynamics.
* Carry out quantum‑chemistry simulations to extract relevant information for input into open‑systems simulations.
* Analyse spectroscopic data generated from experiments, including transient absorption and electron paramagnetic resonance spectroscopies.
* Interact and closely collaborate with colleagues in the group and the wider consortium.
* Provide supervision to junior researchers including master’s students and PhD students.
* Write manuscripts based on your work and the team’s work for research journals.
* Present work at external scientific meetings, planning well ahead of deadlines.
* Carry out other duties commensurate with the grade and remit of the post.
Person Specification
Please ensure that you reference the application criteria in the application statement when you apply.
Essential criteria
* PhD in quantum physics with a focus on open quantum systems theory (assessed at application/interview).
* Strong expertise in molecular systems (assessed at application/interview).
* Experience in writing manuscripts for peer‑reviewed journals (assessed at application/interview).
* Effective communication skills, both written and verbal, report writing skills, experience of delivering presentations (assessed at application/interview).
* Ability to develop creative approaches to problem solving with an appreciation of longer‑term implications (assessed at application/interview).
* Ability to work in a team and to collaborate effectively with other researchers (assessed at application/interview).
* Ability to assess and organise resources, and plan and progress work activities (assessed at application/interview).
Desirable criteria
* Working knowledge of tensor networks and their application in open quantum systems (assessed at application/interview).
* Familiarity with quantum chemistry methods, such as DFT or CASSCF (assessed at application/interview).
* Experience of working across disciplinary boundaries, e.g. Physics and Chemistry (assessed at application/interview).
* Experience in supervision of junior researchers (Master and PhD students).
Further Information
Grade: 7
Work arrangement: Full‑time
Duration: Until 31 August 2028
Line manager: Senior Lecturer in Quantum Technologies
Direct reports: N/A
Next steps in the recruitment process
It is anticipated that the selection process will take place in November and will consist of an interview and presentation. Candidates will be notified of progression to the selection stage no later than two weeks after the closing date of the advert. Any required adjustments to enable participation in the recruitment process can be requested via hicks‑hr@sheffield.ac.uk.
What We Offer
* Minimum of 41 days annual leave including bank holidays and closure days (pro rata) with the ability to purchase more.
* Flexible working opportunities, including hybrid working for some roles.
* Generous pension scheme.
* A wide range of discounts and rewards on shopping, eating out and travel.
* A variety of staff networks, providing opportunities for social interaction, peer support and personal development (e.g. Race Equality, LGBT+, Women’s and Parent’s networks).
* Recognition awards to reward staff who go above and beyond in their role.
* A commitment to your development – access to learning and mentoring schemes.
* A range of generous family‑friendly policies
o Paid time off for parenting and caring emergencies.
o Support for those going through menopause.
o Paid time off and support for fertility treatment.
o and more.
More details can be found on our benefits page: https://sheffield.ac.uk/jobs/benefits.
We are a Disability Confident Employer. If you have a disability and meet the essential criteria for this job you will be invited to take part in the next stage of the selection process.
We are a research university with a global reputation for excellence. Our vision and strategic plan outline our commitment to building a diverse community of staff and students that recognises and values the abilities, backgrounds, beliefs and ways of living for everyone.
Our university vision: https://sheffield.ac.uk/vision.
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