Research Associate, Research Scientist

Description Role:
Research Associate in Developing a Commercial Prototype Quantum Microscope with Controlled Sensor–Sample Proximity. Grade and Salary:

Grade 7, £37,694 - £47,389 per annum

1

FTE, 35hrs per week, Monday – Friday

12 Months FTC

33 days annual leave plus 9 buildings closed days (and Christmas Eve when it falls on a weekday)

We seek a talented and motivated scientist/engineer with interest in founding a start-up to lead quantum sensor prototyping and market research. The primary objective of this project is to design and develop an industrial-grade quantum sensing microscope prototype featuring ultra-precise sensor positioning technology. This advanced system will enable high-throughput nanoscale chemical and material analysis with unprecedented accuracy, addressing critical needs in sectors such as semiconductors, biotechnology, and advanced materials.

A key aspect of the role involves conducting comprehensive market research to identify high-value application areas for the prototype. The successful candidate will collaborate with partners and consultants to refine and optimize the design in real industrial environments, ensuring the technology is both technically robust and commercially viable.

This is a one-year funded project, during which securing additional commercialization funding will be essential to support potential company incorporation and future growth. Therefore, we seek an applicant who demonstrates strong motivation and commitment to the commercialization of quantum technologies, alongside technical excellence and innovative thinking.

• Propose, develop and develop an industrial quantum microscope.
• Actively collaborate with partners, consultants and potential customers for co-creation of the prototype.
• Intellectual property protection with a view to develop near and future market applications.
• General tasks involve prototype building; analysis and interpretation of data; communication with other investigators involved in this collaborative project; preparation of business documents (e.g. business plan, pitch deck, market analysis report); attend conferences and network events; scientific research.

• Meeting planned milestones and deliverables.
• Reporting progress regularly to supervisors and partners, both verbally and in written reports.
• Keeping clear written records of work done, and storing data in accessible formats according to a system agreed with the project supervisor.

• The project involves a close collaboration with industrial partners and consultants.
• The post holder will join the Quantum Photonics Laboratory and will be expected to work collaboratively and cooperatively in a team environment; this involves shared use of laboratory equipment (therefore effective communication between group members is essential), attending and giving periodic presentations to weekly group meetings.
• The post holder will be expected to maintain and develop collaborations with internal and external partners in the field, with an open and collaborative spirit.
• The post holder is also expected to conduct market research and engage with potential customers.

• Attend group and project meetings, communicating progress on a regular basis. Deliver presentations to project collaborators and the wider research community.
• Write high quality research papers in English for the scientific literature and business reports.
• Write a business proposal and develop a pitch deck based on conducted market research, supported by a commercial champion.

• Understand the intellectual property landscape relevant to the project and seek to protect the methods and techniques developed during the project.
• The successful candidate will be expected to conduct and lead the prototyping and market research activities.
• Responsibilities will also include assistance in the day-to-day maintenance of the experimental facilities, liaising with companies and external collaborators.
• Build internal…