Senior Research Associate in superconducting qubits with moveable junctions (0460-22RR-R)

We are seeking a committed researcher to integrate mechanical resonators into superconducting qubits.

Coupling between a mechanical resonator and a qubit is a key to controlling single phonons, to creating ultra-sensitive detectors for force and displacement, and ultimately to studying mesoscopic quantum superpositions of millions of nucleons. Our approach is to make superconducting circuits whose Josephson junctions are themselves moving. We will use suspended carbon nanotubes or graphene nano-membranes, which as well as being excellent Josephson materials are high quality mechanical resonators. In this way we will enter a largely unexplored regime of hybrid quantum electromechanics.

This project will benefit from the excellent facilities and dynamic intellectual environment of the Ultra-low Temperature Physics group and the Quantum Technology Centre. You will have opportunities for scientific training in nanofabrication, radio-frequency electronics, and/or cryogenic techniques. We will also work to support your career development by offering opportunities for mentoring and teaching, supporting your conference attendance, and encouraging applications for small grants and independent fellowships. If you have appropriate expertise and can convincingly motivate your ideas, it will be possible to define your own project related to the research themes in our groups.

You will join us on an indefinite contract. However, the role remains contingent on external funding, which at this time runs until 28/02/2025.

Lancaster University is consistently ranked in the top 10 in the UK university league tables. It is located on a beautiful campus in the North-West of England close to the Lake District National Park.

The Department of Physics is committed to family-friendly and flexible working policies on an individual basis, as well as the Athena SWAN Charter, which recognises and celebrates good employment practice undertaken to address gender equality in higher education and research. We are also strongly committed to fostering diversity within its community as a source of excellence, cultural enrichment, and social strength. We welcome those who would contribute to the further diversification of our department.

Informal enquiries can be made to Prof. Edward Laird (e.a.laird@lancaster.ac.uk) and Dr Jon Prance (j.prance@lancaster.ac.uk). It is anticipated that the appointments will be made from 01/04/2023 or soon afterwards.

Closing Date: 05 Mar 2023

Department: Research

Salary: £35,326 to £40,927