Research Associate in Experimental Ultracold Quantum Mixtures

We have an open position for a postdoctoral researcher to join the Quantum Fluids research team to help develop a state-of-the-art K-Rb quantum-mixture apparatus. The apparatus will enable us to explore the role that vortices, topologically-protected defects, play in both supporting and destroying emergent quantum phenomena, such as superfluidity and superconductivity.

I am looking for an experimental postdoc to join my research team at the University of Strathclyde in Glasgow, Scotland, within the larger Experimental Quantum Optics and Photonics Group. The Royal Society funded research project will explore the role that vortices, topologically-protected defects, play in both supporting and destroying emergent quantum phenomena, such as superfluidity and superconductivity. The project involves developing a K-Rb quantum mixture apparatus. We will implement dynamically configurable optical potentials, together with a high-resolution microscope objective to directly visualise vortex dynamics in binary superfluids, and to study the interaction between vortices and pinning potentials, of relevance to almost all superfluid and superconducting systems from ultracold Bose-Einstein condensates to neutron stars.

Job outline: The initial focus of the position is continued development of the experimental platform - a state-of-the-art K-Rb quantum-mixture apparatus. During construction of the new experiment the researcher can apply and extend their experience with ultracold atoms, laser cooling, Feshbach resonances, dynamically configurable optical potentials, and high-resolution imaging. The researcher will also assist in planning and implementing initial experiments on vortex dynamics in superfluid mixtures.

Further details about the post can be found here: https://bit.ly/PDRAQuantumMixtures or contact Dr Kali Wilson directly at kali.wilson@strath.ac.uk

The post is for 24 months (possible extension). The closing date for the post is Wednesday 2nd July 2025. Salary range: £37,174 - £41,671. Benefits include pension and 42 days of paid holiday (31 days annual leave + 11 public holidays).

  • Closing date: July 2 2025
  • Start date: From July 2025 (some flexibility)
  • Contact: Dr Kali Wilson