We are seeking
a motivated and Talented experimentalist for a full-time Research Assistant in Quantum Thermodynamics within Professor Ares’ research group at the Department of Engineering Science (Central Oxford). The post is externally funded and is fixed-term to the 30th September 2026. The integration of electronic and mechanical degrees of freedom in quantum devices, particularly using carbon nanotubes, enables the exploration of thermodynamic processes at the nanoscale. Carbon nanotubes serve as exceptional nanomechanical resonators due to their low mass, high stiffness, and quality factor, allowing efficient transduction of mechanical vibrations into electrical signals at millikelvin temperatures. These devices support coupling between electronic, spin, and mechanical states. The proposed research will focus on leveraging this interplay to monitor thermodynamic quantities such as work and heat, aiming for direct measurements of work exchange in non-equilibrium quantum systems. The appointed researcher will fabricate and characterize devices, perform low-temperature experiments using radio-frequency readout circuits, and collaborate with theorists to develop novel experiments for studying quantum thermodynamics. You should possess a relevant PhD/DPhil (or be near completion). Experimental expertise in electrical characterisation of quantum devices at cryogenic temperatures is essential. As is excellent communication skills, including the ability to write for publication, present research proposals and results, and represent the research group at meetings is essential.