Researcher in Physics
University College Cork
University: University College Cork (UCC)
Job ID: 100173
Position Type: 24 Months Fixed-Term, Whole-time Post
Salary: €47,273–€53,925 per annum (IUA PD1 Research Salary Scale)
Closing Date: Friday, 8th January 2027, before 12 noon (Irish Local Time)
Further Vacancy Details
The superconducting quantum interference device (SQUID) forms the physics basis of the achievements recognized by the 2025 Nobel Prize in Physics. It is the most sensitive electronic device known and at the core of solid-state quantum computing and quantum sensing. It is also the focus of our quantum sensing programme for which we use the unique spin noise spectrometers QSNAP1, TERTIA, ANDROMEDA, to study the surface, bulk and nanoscale quantum characteristics of novel candidate materials.
The successful applicant will also pioneer the development of multifunctional millikelvin STM and spin noise microscope concepts.
Required Research Knowledge and Experience
The ideal PDRA candidate for this research campaign will have a combination of specialized knowledge, skills and successful experience in several of the following research areas:
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Sub-Kelvin Cryofree Refrigeration: Concepts, operation and maintenance of sub-kelvin 3He-refrigerators and 3He-4He dilution refrigerators, based on cryofree cryostats.
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Ultra-low Vibration Techniques: Concepts, operation and maintenance of ultra-low vibration experiments, including control of mechanical, acoustic, cabling, vacuum-line, and cryogenic noise.
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High-field Superconducting Magnets: Concepts, operation and maintenance of persistent superconducting magnets at fields up to 20 Tesla.
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Superconducting Quantum Inference Devices & Qubits: Concepts and operation of Josephson junctions, SQUIDS and superconducting qubits.
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High-frequency Data Acquisition and Control Electronics: Concepts, operation and maintenance GHz bandwidth, high signal/noise data acquisition and storage.
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Instrument Design and Fabrication: Principles of, and experience with, scientific instrument design; project management, CAD tools, prototyping, machining, assembly, integration, testing and operation of custom built instruments.
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Quantum Spin Liquid Noise Theory: Knowledge and experience of contemporary theory for magnetic monopole fluids, quantum spin liquids and quantum spin ice.
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Data Management, Analysis & Machine Learning: Knowledge and experience in high volume image-array data acquisition and management, development of custom software and machine learning techniques for advanced image-array data analysis.
Please note that Garda vetting and/or an international police clearance check may form part of the selection process.
Project
Macroscopic Quantum Science and Technology – MARQUIS
For an information package including full details of the post, selection criteria and application process, see the UCC Vacancy Portal.
The University, at its discretion, may undertake to make an additional appointment(s) from this competition following the conclusion of the process.
Informal Enquiries
Prof. J.C. Séamus Davis
Professor of Quantum Physics, Physics Department
Contact Number: +353 (0) 21 4902482
Email: jcseamusdavis@gmail.com
For further information on the hiring unit, please see:
UCC School of Physics
Salary
€47,273–€53,925 per annum (IUA PD1 Research Salary Scale)
Salary placement on appointment will be in accordance with public sector pay policy.
Equality, Diversity and Inclusion
University College Cork is committed to being a fully inclusive global university which actively recruits, supports and retains colleagues from all sectors of society. Equality, Diversity and Inclusion (EDI) are core values under our UCC Strategic Plan 2023-2028. UCC holds a Silver Athena SWAN award in recognition of our commitment to advancing equality in higher education.
We value diversity as well as celebrate, support and thrive on the contributions of all our employees and the communities they represent. We are proud to be an equal opportunities employer and encourage applications from everybody, regardless of age, care-giving status, disability, ethnicity, gender and/or gender identity or expression status, nationality, marital status/civil partnership, pregnancy and maternity, race, religion/creed, and/or sexual orientation.
We are committed to supporting all staff through flexible working schemes, family-friendly policies, training and development, and staff networks. We value the enrichment that comes from a diverse community and seek to promote equality, prevent discrimination and protect the human rights of each individual in line with equality legislation.
We encourage applicants to consult our Dignity and Respect Policy and learn more about our EDI related initiatives.
Application Requirements
Applications must be submitted online via the University College Cork vacancy portal:
Apply Online – UCC Vacancy Portal
Queries relating to the online application process should be referred to hrresearchqueries@ucc.ie, quoting the job title.
We encourage you to reach out to us directly should you require assistance or reasonable accommodation during the recruitment process.
Please note interviews will be conducted either online via Microsoft Teams or in person in the first instance. Candidates may also be required to attend interviews in person if an interview takes place online. Candidates will be notified as appropriate.
Candidates should apply, in confidence, before 12 noon (Irish Local Time) on Friday, 8th January 2027.
No late applications will be accepted.
UNIVERSITY COLLEGE CORK IS AN EQUAL OPPORTUNITIES EMPLOYER
Please note that an appointment to posts advertised will be dependent on University approval, together with the terms of the employment control framework for the higher education sector.