Research Associate in \"AI Algorithms Spin- Quantum Technology Job Penicuik area,Easter Howgate Scotland UK,Research/Development

Role:Research Associate in “AI Algorithms for Spin-Based Quantum Technology “

Grade and Salary:Grade 7 - £37,694 - £47,389per annum

Contract Type:Full Time (1

FTE), Fixed Term for 24 months

Holiday Entitlement:33 days annual leaveplus 9 buildings closed days (and Christmas Eve when it falls on a weekday)

About our Team

We offer a post-doctoral position related to the “Quantum Sensors for Biomedical Research” (Q-BIOMED) hub, with the goal to develop novel AI-enhanced protocols for quantum sensing.

Detailed Description

We are seeking a highly motivated Postdoctoral Research Associate to join our team working at the intersection of artificial intelligence and quantum sensing. The positions will focus on the development and deployment of real-time AI methods for the autonomous optimisation of spin-based quantum sensors associated to solid-state defects.

The successful candidates will join a research environment that has pioneered adaptive quantum sensing approaches combining quantum hardware with real-time machine learning. Examples of recent advances from our group include the demonstration of real-time adaptive quantum sensing with NV centres in diamond (see e.g. Phys. Rev. Applied 21, 024026 (2024)) and the development of scalable Bayesian inference techniques for high-dimensional parameter estimation problems relevant to nanoscale magnetic resonance imaging (see e.g. PRX Quantum 7, 020360 (2026)).

The successful candidate has a background in artificial intelligence, machine learning, applied mathematics, computer science, or theoretical physics. They will develop advanced algorithms based on Bayesian experimental design, variational Bayesian inference, and reinforcement learning to enable quantum sensors to autonomously decide what measurement to perform next, learn from incoming data in real time, and optimise their own performance. The ultimate goal is to push quantum sensing towards transformative applications such as imaging and characterising individual molecules, detecting and controlling single nuclear spins, and pushing magnetic resonance experiments to detect e.g. single cancer cells.

Key

Duties and Responsibilities

The key tasks of this project are to undertake research in the following areas:

Develop robust multi-parameter quantum sensing protocols based on reinforcement learning
Collaborate with experimental colleagues in the implementations of the protocol on state-of-the-art quantum control hardware
Intellectual property protection with a view to develop near and future market applications
General tasks involve scientific research; analysis and interpretation of data; daily oversight of the activities of postgraduate and undergraduate project students in the laboratory; communication with other investigators involved in this collaborative project; preparation of scientific papers; presentation of research at conferences.

To carry out the research project to a high standard;

Meeting planned milestones and deliverables.

Reporting progress regularly to supervisors, 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.

To collaborate with partners within the project and others as appropriate:

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), and giving periodic presentations to group meetings.

Assist the development of student research skills, and be expected to contribute to the assessment of student knowledge in the context of teaching and supervision…