Research Associate in Optimal Control of Quantum Systems

Job Title:

Research Associate in Optimal Control of Open Quantum Systems

Salary per annum: £38,784.

Position type:
Fixed-term, Full Time (On site)

Start date:

19/05/2026

Closing date: 09/06/2026

The University of Sheffield invites applications for a Postdoctoral Research Associate on Open Quantum Systems theory funded by the EPSRC working with Dr Jake Iles‑Smith. Environmentally induced noise remains a key barrier to scalable solid‑state quantum technologies (QTs), preventing precise control over quantum states in systems such as quantum dots (QDs) and colour centres in crystalline materials. This project seeks to enhance the efficiency and robustness of quantum technologies by developing a versatile framework, combining tensor network methods, optimal control theory, and machine learning, to design control protocols that minimise decoherence and dissipation in quantum systems strongly influenced by their environment.

The project will impact the broader field of QTs by advancing reliable control techniques, making scalable and high‑fidelity quantum devices more feasible for practical applications in computing, sensing, and communication.

• Develop open quantum systems formalism to simulate solid‑state quantum emitters.
• Develop optimisation frameworks for improving the control of solid‑state quantum devices.
• Engage with experimental groups and use the formalism to analyse experimental data.
• Interact and closely collaborate with colleagues in the group and the wider consortium.
• Provide supervision to junior researchers including master students and PhD students.
• Write manuscripts based on your work and the team’s work for research journals.
• Present work at external scientific meetings, planning well ahead of the deadline.
• Carry out other duties commensurate with the grade and remit of the post.

• PhD in theoretical quantum physics with a focus on open quantum systems (or equivalent relevant experience).
• Strong expertise in quantum optics theory.
• Experience in writing manuscripts for peer‑reviewed journals.
• Effective communication skills, both written and verbal, report writing skills, experience of delivering presentations.
• Ability to develop creative approaches to problem solving with an appreciation of longer‑term implications.
• Ability to work in a team and to collaborate effectively with other researchers.
• Ability to assess and organise resources, and plan and progress work activities.
• Working knowledge of non‑perturbative methods in open quantum systems.
• Desirable:
  Understanding of optimisation strategies in quantum control.
• Desirable:
  Experience working with experimentalists.
• Desirable:
  Experience in supervision of junior researchers.

We are a Disability Confident Employer. If you have a disability and meet the essential criteria for this job you will be invited to take part in the next stage of the selection process.