Postdoctoral Research Associate in Dark Matter Detection with Levitated Optomechanics

About us

The Physics and Astronomy Department at UCL is located in the heart of the historical area of Bloomsbury. UCL Physics & Astronomy is among the top departments in the UK for this subject area: UCL is consistently placed in the global top 20 across a wide range of university rankings - and is currently 8th in the QS World University Rankings 2020, and 4th in the UK for Physics & Astronomy.

We have forged an internationally renowned reputation for being at the forefront of world leading research and providing high class teaching. Those joining us can expect to be part of a dynamic community of Physicists and Astronomers whose enthusiasm for science and innovation is exceptional.

About the role

The optomechanics and the dark groups of Peter Barker and Chamkaur Ghag have recently been awarded STFC funding to develop electrodynamically levitated quantum sensors for rare-event searches. The principal aim of this research programme is to deliver discovery or world leading constraints on composite dark matter by exploring significant new parameter space using directionally sensitive optomechanical quantum sensors. The project will also perform both technical and theoretical R&D to explore innovative and cutting-edge methodologies to increase sensitivity to other models of dark matter and physics Beyond the Standard Model (BSM).

The experiments will take place within a state-of-the art laboratory in the new Photon Science Hub at UCL. This position is to lead the theoretical exploration of phase space available for new physics using the existing quantum sensors and to define requirements for near-future development and long-term R&D for the experimental programme. This position is funded for 1 year in the first instance.

Main purpose of the Postdoctoral Research Associate in Dark Matter Detection with Levitated Optomechanics

To take the leading role in the theoretical and phenomenological exploration of dark sector and BSM physics discovery opportunities, as well as precision Standard Model tests, with current and next-generation optomechanically levitated quantum sensors.You will also provide day-to-day assistance and guidance to the PhD students involved in the project.

The successful candidate will also:

• contribute to the preparation and drafting of research bids and proposals;
• contribute to the overall activities of the research team and department as required;
• undertake a limited amount of teaching in relation to subject area;
• contribute to the induction and direction of other research staff and students as requested.

The postholder will:

• carry out any other duties as are within the scope, spirit and purpose of the job as requested by their supervisors or the Head of Department;
• actively follow UCL policies including Equal Opportunities and Race Equality policies;
• maintain an awareness and observation of Fire and Health & Safety Regulations.

About you

The successful applicant will have or about to obtain a PhD in Physics.

It is desirable to have following experience, knowledge and attributes:

• experience in levitated optomechanical methods;
• knowledge of dark matter physics and detection;
• knowledge of high vacuum, lasers and optical methods;
• excellent written and verbal communication;
• ability to analyse and write up data and to present complex information effectively to a range of audiences;
• able to work in a team;
• commitment to high quality research;
• commitment to UCL's policy of equal opportunity and the ability to work harmoniously with colleagues and students of all cultures and backgrounds.

Appointment at Grade 7 is dependent upon having been awarded a PhD; if this is not the case, initial appointment will be at research assistant Grade 6B (salary £33,184. -£34,976. per annum, inclusive of London Allowance) with payment at Grade 7 being backdated to the date of final submission of the PhD thesis.

This position is funded for 1 year in the first instance.

Candidates will need to upload a CV (including a list of publications), a statement of research interests and plans (3 pages maximum), and the contact information for three references. A cover letter can be included using the "Statement in Support of your Application" section of the online form.

Applicants should arrange for three letters of reference to be emailed to PI's named on the full UCL job advert details by the application deadline.

A job description and person specification can be accessed at the bottom of the full UCL job advert details.

To apply for the vacancy please click on the 'Apply Now' button. If you have any queries regarding the application process, please contact Research Group and Operations Administrator, (+44 (0)20 7679 3943) - HEP/AMOPP.

Informal enquiries regarding the vacancy can be made to: Prof. Chamkaur Ghag, e-mail address can be found on the full UCL job advert details.

What we offer

At UCL, we offer a competitive benefits package including 27 days annual leave plus six days (bank holidays are in addition), hybrid and flexible working, final salary pension scheme, season ticket loan, cycle to work scheme, enhanced maternity/ paternity/ adoption pay, workplace nursery, employee assistance programme and much more.

For more information on our benefits, please visit https://www.ucl.ac.uk/work-at-ucl/rewards-and-benefits.

We will consider applications to work on a part-time, flexible and job share basis wherever possible.

Our commitment to Equality, Diversity and Inclusion

At London's Global University, we know diversity fosters creativity and innovation, and we want our community to represent the diversity of the world's talent. We are committed to equality of opportunity, to being fair and inclusive, and to being a place where we all belong.

We therefore particularly encourage applications from candidates who are likely to be underrepresented in UCL's workforce. These include people from Black, Asian and ethnic minority backgrounds; disabled people; LGBTQI+ people; and for our Grade 9 and 10 roles, women.