Overview
We are looking for a postdoctoral researcher to develop single-spin entanglement capabilities in molecular systems. By developing novel optical interfaces to spins in co-ordination complexes, you will realise optically addressable molecular spin qubits with unprecedented capabilities, opening up bottom-up control of single-qubit entanglement.
Background
This position is part of a collaborative project with the groups of Sam Bayliss at the University of Glasgow and David Awschalom, Danna Freedman, and Giulia Galli at the University of Chicago and MIT. It builds on our recent demonstrations of optically addressable spin qubits in molecular systems [e.g., Science, 370, 1309 (2020); Phys. Rev. X 12, 031028 (2022); Phys. Rev. Lett. 133, 120801 (2024); JACS 147, 22911 (2025)] which highlight promise for combining optical/microwave spin manipulation with the atomistic control afforded by chemistry, and therefore realising a versatile platform for entanglement generation and quantum sensing.
The role
Through this role you will deploy advanced spin-optical measurements (e.g., pulsed optically detected magnetic resonance, cryogenic resonant-laser spectroscopy) to measure a range of co-ordination complexes, and develop methods for single-qubit entanglement. You will play a leading role in this international collaborative project, with opportunities to travel to the USA; have access to state-of-the-art experimental capabilities; and have significant autonomy and opportunities for learning.
What we are looking for
We are looking for a highly motivated researcher who holds (or is close to completing) a PhD in physics, chemistry, materials science, engineering, or a related discipline. We are open to experimental experience in relevant topics, for example, spin systems and their control (e.g., spin resonance, solid-state defects) and molecular systems and their characterisation (e.g., optical spectroscopy, single-molecule fluorescence).
We particularly welcome applications from candidates from groups which have been historically under-represented in STEM research, and are committed to fostering an inclusive, supportive, and flexible working environment in all our activities.
Informal enquiries
Please contact Dr. Sam Bayliss () for informal inquiries, any questions, and to discuss this position further.
How to apply
Please apply through the vacancy link, including:
- CV with list of publications
- Cover letter describing your suitability and motivation for the role
- Contact details of two academic references
Job Purpose
To make a leading contribution to a project Developing a Chemical Toolbox for Single-Qubit Entanglement working with Dr. Sam Bayliss. The successful candidate will also be expected to contribute to the formulation and submission of research publications and research proposals as well as help manage and direct this complex and challenging project as opportunities allow.
Main Duties and Responsibilities
- Take a leading role in the planning and conduct of assigned research individually or jointly in accordance with the project deliverables and project/group/School/College research strategy.
- Document research output including analysis and interpretation of all data, maintaining records and databases, drafting technical/progress reports and papers as appropriate.
- Establish and maintain your research profile and reputation and that of The University of Glasgow/ School/ Research Group, including establishing and sustaining a track record of independent and joint publications of international quality in high profile/quality refereed journals, enhancing the research impact in terms of economic/societal benefit, and gathering indicators of esteem.
- Survey the research literature and environment, understand the research challenges associated with the project & subject area, & develop/implement a suitable research strategy.
- Presentation of work at international and national conferences, at internal and external seminars, colloquia and workshops to develop and enhance our research profile.
- Take a leading role in the identification of potential funding sources and to assist in the development of proposals to secure funding from internal and external bodies to support future research.
- Take a leading role in developing and maintaining collaborations with colleagues across the research group/School/College/University and wider community (e.g. Academic and Industrial Partners).
- Take a leading role in team/group meetings/seminars/workshops and School research group activities to enhance the wider knowledge, outputs and culture of the School/College.
- Take the lead in the organisation, supervision, mentoring and training of undergraduate and/or postgraduate students and less experienced members of the project team to ensure their effective development.
- Perform administrative tasks related to the activities of the research group and School, including Budgets/Expenditure.
- Make a leading contribution to Teaching activities (e.g. demonstrating etc) and associated admin as assigned by the Head of School and in consultation with Principal Investigator.
- Keep up to date with current knowledge and recent advances in the field/discipline.
- Engage in personal, professional and career development, to enhance both specialist and transferable skills in accordance with desired career trajectory.
- Undertake any other reasonable duties as required by the Head of School/Director of Research Institute.
- Contribute to the enhancement of the University’s international profile in line with the University’s Strategic Plan, World Changers Together
Knowledge, Qualifications, Skills and Experience
Knowledge and Qualifications
Essential
A1 Normally Scottish Credit and Qualification Framework level 12 (PhD) in a topic aligned with this position (e.g., physics, chemistry, materials science, engineering, or a related discipline, plus track record of emerging independence within a research/professional environment, or alternatively possess professional qualifications and experience equivalent to PhD level plus the requisite experience.
A2 A comprehensive and up-to-date knowledge of the wider subject area or subject specialism including current issues and future directions.
A3 Excellent and demonstrable practical and theoretical project-specific skills suitable for carrying out research into molecular spin systems within the Quantum Optospintronics Group. This should cover a suitable selection from: optical spectroscopy, spin systems and their control, molecular materials.
Skills
Essential
C1 Proven ability to deliver quality outputs in a timely and efficient manner
C2 Ability to demonstrate self-motivation, initiative, and independence in thought and work, suitable for carrying out research into molecular spin systems within the Quantum Optospintronics Group, for example, as illustrated by identification of project objectives from assessment of the literature, design & analysis of experiments & drafting of papers.
C3 Excellent communication skills (oral and written), including ability to communicate complex data/concepts clearly and concisely.
C4 Excellent interpersonal skills including team working and a collegiate approach.
C5 Appropriate capacity for research creativity and cross-discipline collaboration.
Experience
Essential
E1 Sufficient depth of relevant research experience appropriate to an early career researcher.
E2 Sufficient and demonstrable project-specific experience suitable for carrying out research into molecular spin systems within the Quantum Optospintronics Group. This should cover a suitable selection from: optical spectroscopy, spin systems and their control, molecular materials.
E2 A track record of presentation and publication of research results in quality publications/conferences
E3 Experience of making a leading contribution in academic activities
E4 Experience of making distinct contributions to identifying and pursuing research funding (or equivalent business development) applications.
E Experience in undertaking independent research
E6 Commitment to open research, as appropriate to the discipline, through open data, open code, open educational resources and practices that support replication.
E7 Commitment to supporting the career development of colleagues and to other forms of collegiality appropriate to the career stage.
Closing date
5 January 2026
Terms and Conditions
Salary will be Grade 7, £41,064 - £46,049 per annum.
This post is full time, and has funding for up to 33 months
The University of Glasgow has a responsibility to ensure that all employees are eligible to live and work in the UK. If you require a Skilled Worker visa to work in the UK, you will be required to meet the eligibility requirements of the visa route to be assigned a Certificate of Sponsorship.
Please note that this post may be eligible to be sponsored under the Skilled Worker visa route if tradeable points can be used under the Skilled Worker visa rules. For more information please visit: https://www.gov.uk/skilled-worker-visa.
As a valued member of our team, you can expect:
- A warm welcoming and engaging organisational culture, where your talents are developed and nurtured, and success is celebrated and shared.
- An excellent employment package with generous terms and conditions including 41 days of leave for full time staff, pension - pensions handbook https://www.gla.ac.uk/myglasgow/payandpensions/pensions/, benefits and discount packages.
- A flexible approach to working.
- A commitment to support your health and wellbeing, including a free 6-month UofG Sport membership for all new staff joining the University https://www.gla.ac.uk/myglasgow/staff/healthwellbeing/.
- We believe that we can only reach our full potential through the talents of all. Equality, diversity and inclusion are at the heart of our values. Applications are particularly welcome from across our communities and in particular people from the Black, Asian and Minority Ethnic (BAME) community, and other protected characteristics who are under-represented within the University. Read more on how the University promotes and embeds all aspects of equality and diversity within our community https://www.gla.ac.uk/myglasgow/humanresources/equalitydiversity/.
- We endorse the principles of Athena Swan https://www.gla.ac.uk/myglasgow/humanresources/equalitydiversity/athenaswan/ and hold bronze, silver and gold awards across the University.
- We are investing in our organisation, and we will invest in you too. Please visit our website https://www.gla.ac.uk/explore/jobs/ for more information.
