Research Associate in Optically Addressable Molecular Spin Qubits
Posted 21 November 2025 – Salary Grade 7: £41,064 – £46,049 per annum – Location: Glasgow – Job Type: Research and Teaching – Reference: 187793 – Expiry 05 January 2026.
Overview
We are looking for a postdoctoral researcher to develop single‑spin entanglement capabilities in molecular systems. By developing novel optical interfaces to spins in coordination complexes, you will realise optically addressable molecular spin qubits with unprecedented capabilities, opening up bottom‑up control of single‑qubit entanglement.
Background
This position is part of a collaborative project with the groups of Sam Bayliss at the University of Glasgow and David Awschalom, Danna Freedman, and Giulia Galli at the University of Chicago and MIT. It builds on our recent demonstrations of optically addressable spin qubits in molecular systems.
The role
Through this role you will deploy advanced spin‑optical measurements to measure a range of coordination complexes, and develop methods for single‑qubit entanglement. You will play a leading role in this international collaborative project, with opportunities to travel to the USA; have access to state‑of‑the‑art experimental capabilities; and have significant autonomy and opportunities for learning.
What we are looking for
We are looking for a highly motivated researcher who holds (or is close to completing) a PhD in physics, chemistry, materials science, engineering, or a related discipline. We are open to experimental experience in relevant topics, for example, spin systems and their control and molecular systems and their characterisation.
We particularly welcome applications from candidates from historically under‑represented groups and are committed to fostering an inclusive, supportive, and flexible working environment.
How to apply
* CV with list of publications
* Cover letter describing your suitability and motivation for the role
* Contact details of two academic references
Responsibilities
* Take a leading role in planning and conducting research individually or jointly in accordance with project deliverables.
* Document research output, including analysis and interpretation of all data, maintaining records, drafting technical reports and papers.
* Establish and maintain a research profile and reputation, including publishing in high‑profile refereed journals.
* Survey the research literature and develop a suitable research strategy.
* Present work at international and national conferences.
* Lead the identification of potential funding sources and assist in developing proposals to secure external funding.
* Develop and maintain collaborations with colleagues across the research group, school, college, university and wider community.
* Organise, supervise, mentor and train undergraduate and postgraduate students and less experienced team members.
* Perform administrative tasks related to the activities of the research group.
* Contribute to teaching activities and associated admin as assigned.
* Engage in personal, professional and career development.
* Undertake any other reasonable duties as required.
Qualifications and Skills
* PhD (or equivalent) in physics, chemistry, materials science, engineering or a related discipline.
* Comprehensive knowledge of the subject area, including current issues and future directions.
* Excellent practical and theoretical project‑specific skills suitable for research into molecular spin systems, covering optical spectroscopy, spin control and molecular materials.
* Proven ability to deliver quality outputs in a timely and efficient manner.
* Self‑motivation, initiative and independence in thought and work.
* Excellent communication skills (oral and written).
* Excellent interpersonal skills, including team working and a collegial approach.
* Capacity for research creativity and cross‑discipline collaboration.
Experience
* Depth of relevant research experience appropriate to an early‑career researcher.
* Project‑specific experience suitable for research into molecular spin systems, covering optical spectroscopy, spin systems and their control, and molecular materials.
* Track record of presentation and publication of research results in quality publications and conferences.
* Experience making a leading contribution in academic activities.
* Experience pursuing research funding applications.
* Independent research experience.
* Commitment to open research practices.
* Commitment to supporting the career development of colleagues.
Closing date
5 January 2026.
Terms and Conditions
Salary will be Grade 7, £41,064 – £46,049 per annum. This post is full‑time, funded for up to 33 months.
All employees must be eligible to live and work in the UK. Skilled Worker visa sponsorship may be available.
Benefits
• 41 days of leave for full‑time staff, pension, benefits and discount packages.
• Flexible approach to working.
• Commitment to health and wellbeing, including free UofG Sport membership for all new staff.
Equality, Diversity and Inclusion
Equality, diversity and inclusion are at the heart of our values. Applications are particularly welcome from people from the Black, Asian and Minority Ethnic (BAME) community, and other protected characteristics who are under‑represented within the University.
We endorse the principles of Athena Swan and hold bronze, silver and gold awards across the University.
We are investing in our organisation, and we will invest in you too. For more information, visit https://www.gla.ac.uk/explore/jobs/.
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