Research Associate in "AI Algorithms for Spin-Based Quantum Technology"

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

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

Contract Type: Full Time (1FTE), Fixed Term for 24 months

Holiday Entitlement:  33 days annual leave plus 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;

1. Meeting planned milestones and deliverables.
2. Reporting progress regularly to supervisors, both verbally and in written reports
3. 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:

1. 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.
2. 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 duties.
3. The post holder will be expected to maintain and develop collaborations with internal and external partners in the field.

Dissemination of results:

1. Attend group and project meetings, communicating progress on a regular basis. Deliver presentations to project collaborators and the wider research community
2. Write high quality research papers in English for the scientific literature.
3. Disseminate results of research in peer reviewed journals and conferences, and/or other appropriate media.

Other duties

• Understand the intellectual property landscape relevant to the project and seek to protect the methods and techniques developed during the course of the project.
• Develop research objectives and proposals for own or joint research with the assistance of a mentor, if required.
• Build internal contacts and participate in internal networks for the exchange of information and to form relationships for future collaboration. Work with academic colleagues on areas of shared research interest and contribute to collaborative decision making. Join external networks to share information and identify potential sources of funds.
• Contribute, under supervision, to the planning of research projects, including the development of new grant/contract proposals. Make internal and external contacts to develop knowledge and understanding and form relationships for future collaboration.
• The ideal candidate will have a strong theoretical understanding and an experimental background in one or more of the following fields: condensed-matter physics, quantum optics, and quantum information science, preferentially with some previous expertise on spin control.
• The successful candidate will be expected to conduct and lead their own experiments whilst also supervising the activities of junior group members and PhD students.
• Responsibilities will also include assistance in the day-to-day maintenance of the experimental facilities, liaising with companies and external collaborators.
• The successful candidate is also expected to be involved in our outreach activities, with roles that can be tuned to the specific preferences of the candidate but will involve for example interviews, talks for the general public and preparation of experimental demonstrators.

Education, Qualifications and Experience 

Essential Criteria

• A PhD in computer science, electrical engineering, theoretical physics or related subjects (or expected to be awarded a PhD soon)
• A sound grasp of probability theory. Bayesian inference, machine learning
• A demonstrated track-record (during a PhD degree or post-doctoral research) of:

1. Development of mathematical modelling and numerical simulations
2. Development of algorithms
3. Primary author contributions to peer-reviewed journals

• Experience of programming (C++ or Python or MATLAB) for data acquisition and analysis.
• A record of high quality publications, as appropriate for the stage in career, and evidence of contribution to the writing of these publications proportionate to opportunity.
• Ability to articulate research work, both in technical reports / papers and by oral presentation
• Ability to formulate and progress work on their own initiative
• Evidence of research ability: problem solving, flexibility
• Must be able to work as part of a team on the experiments at Heriot-Watt and more widely with the collaborators at other Universities
• Experience in writing and managing peer-reviewed papers.
• Experience in public presentations of scientific results (e.g. conference talks)

Desirable Criteria

• Good understanding of NMR/EPR techniques
• Good understanding of artificial intelligence (particularly Bayesian experiment design and reinforcement learning)
• Experience in leading the writing of scientific papers.
• Evidence of ability, subject to opportunity, to guide other researchers, e.g. PhD students and undergraduate project students.
• Experience of research-student supervision.
• Capability to be self-directed and think innovatively.
• Energy and enthusiasm for the project.

How to Apply

Please submit via the Heriot-Watt on-line recruitment system (1) Cover letter describing their interest and suitability for the post; (2) Full CV

Applications can be submitted until midnight on Thursday 08 October 2026.

Heriot-Watt University is committed to securing equality of opportunity in employment and to the creation of an environment in which individuals are selected, trained, promoted, appraised, and otherwise treated on the sole basis of their relevant merits and abilities. Equality and diversity are all about maximising potential and creating a culture of inclusion for all.

Heriot-Watt University values diversity across our university community and welcomes applications from all sectors of society, particularly from underrepresented groups. For more information, please see our website and also our award-winning work in Disability Inclusive Science Careers .

We welcome and will consider flexible working patterns e.g. part-time working and job share options.

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