Research Associate - Supersolids and Quantum Droplets in Light-Mediated Quantum Gases

Dec 15, 2025

Pattern formation in BEC

We are excited to invite applications for a Postdoctoral Research Associate to join our project on Supersolids and Quantum Droplets, where we explore new phases of matter in light-mediated quantum gases. You will work with an established experimental platform for ultracold caesium atoms to create self-organised supersolid and droplet states in a laser-driven Bose–Einstein condensate, using single-mirror optical feedback to induce long-range interactions. This research opens the door to studying symmetry breaking, emergent dynamics in long-range coupled systems, and connections to time crystals, nonlinear quantum fluids, and nonequilibrium many-body physics.

You will join the Experimental Quantum Optics and Photonics Group in the Department of Physics at the University of Strathclyde. The role includes close collaboration with academics and a postdoctoral researcher from the Computational Nonlinear and Quantum Optics Group founded by the same EPSRC project. You will be part of a vibrant research environment that spans fundamental studies of quantum gases through to applied work in quantum simulation, nonlinear quantum fluids, and emerging quantum technologies. The position will offer opportunities to initiate and contribute to collaborative research projects, as well as to supervise and mentor PhD students within the EQOP group.

We are looking for candidates with a PhD (or near completion) in experimental physics, ideally with experience in ultracold atomic gases or complex optical systems. Skills in laser stabilisation and control, experimental automation, data acquisition, and analysis will be highly beneficial. You should be enthusiastic about sharing results through publications and presenting work at conferences in the UK and abroad.

If this sounds like a project you would enjoy, or you would simply like to learn more, please get in touch with Elmar Haller (elmar.haller@strath.ac.uk) or Thorsten Ackemann (thorsten.ackemann@strath.ac.uk)

Useful links: Flyer for open positions, Application page with further details