Research Associate in Experimental Quantum Computing

Jan 1, 2022

Research Associate in Experimental Quantum Computing

Quantum computation offers a revolutionary approach to information processing, providing a route to efficiently solve classically hard problems such as factorisation and optimisation as well as unlocking new applications in material science and quantum chemistry that could in future be scaled up to accelerate drug design or optimised materials for aerospace and manufacturing. Whilst large-scale applications will require thousands of qubits, in the near-term small (100 qubit) quantum processors will reach a regime in which the quantum hardware is able to solve problems not accessible even on the largest available conventional supercomputers.

Applications are invited for a postdoctoral research associate to work on a new project to establish a novel platform for quantum computing based on scalable arrays of neutral atoms as part of an EPSRC Prosperity Partnership with M Squared Lasers. Together, we will develop new hardware to cool and trap arrays of over 100 qubits that will be used to perform both analogue and digital quantum simulation by exploiting the strong long-range interactions of highly excited Rydberg atoms.

We are seeking highly a motivated experimental researcher who will be responsible for the design and construction of the experimental platform, as well as benchmarking new techniques and protocols for implementing quantum algorithms targeting industrially relevant problems ranging from optimisation to quantum chemistry.

The successful applicant will be based in the Department of Physics under the supervision of Dr. Jonathan Pritchard, an EPSRC Quantum Technology Fellow, within the Experimental Quantum Optics and Photonics group at Strathclyde, working in collaboration with researchers developing quantum software and algorithms targeted to the neutral atom platform lead by Andrew Daley. Candidates will have a PhD (or close to completion) in experimental atomic physics, quantum computing or have equivalent experience. Technical knowledge of electronics, lasers, vacuum systems and data analysis would be of advantage. An ability to prepare scientific publications and present research outcomes at local, national and international research meetings is expected. For more information contact jonathan.pritchard@strath.ac.uk.