We are seeking two research associates with experience in the broad area of quantum information science and technology, and an interest in quantum foundations more specifically, to work with Dr Jonte R Hance within the Advanced Model-Based Engineering and Reasoning (AMBER) Research Group in the School of Computing. These positions are funded under Dr Hance’s EPSRC Quantum Technologies Career Acceleration Fellowship, titled “Developing Quantum Advantage by Understanding the Paradoxical Aspects of Measurement in Quantum Systems”.

This project leverages foundations to pave the way for the novel quantum protocols, algorithms, and technologies of the future. You will work closely with internal collaborators, external project partners (including at the University of Bristol, Heriot-Watt University, Northumbria University, and the National Quantum Computing Centre in the UK, and Kyoto University, Nagoya University, Kagawa University, and Hiroshima University in Japan), and new and developing external collaborators. These 5-year fixed-term positions should provide a path to research independence, and Dr Hance will provide support and guidance for applying for independent fellowships and other such opportunities for developing independence throughout the term of the position.

Research directions will be developed collaboratively by you and Dr Hance, commensurate to previous research experience and independence, but will broadly focus (at least initially) on Dr Hance’s areas of interest — quantum measurement dynamics, the origins and uses of contextuality and quasiprobability negativities, deeper understanding of the factors which contribute to the “twin evolution laws” of quantum mechanics, and ways of applying such foundational analysis for quantum technological or social benefit (e.g., through designing protocols or algorithms for, or building understanding of, quantum computing, communications, imaging, sensing, or tomography, or through “quantum-like” modelling of phenomena, such as visual memory in psychology).

The role is fixed term for 60 months.

For informal inquiries please contact Dr Jonte Hance jonte.hance@newcastle.ac.uk

To apply, please complete the online application and provide your CV and a cover letter, detailing how you meet the role requirements listed below under the knowledge, skills and experience section.

Key Accountabilities Including (but not limited to):

Conduct research around quantum information science and technologies broadly defined, based on specific research directions set in discussion with Dr Hance Build internal and external contacts and participate in networks for the exchange of information and to form relationships for future collaboration Contribute to grant applications submitted by others and in time, develop own research objectives and proposals for own funding or, where funders do not permit this, contribute to the writing of collective bids Assess research findings for the need/scope for further investigations Prepare research for publication and dissemination, either through seminar and conference presentations or through publications Present research findings, either at conferences or through publications in reputable outlets appropriate to the discipline Help with the supervision of final year undergraduate research projects and postgraduate research students and where appropriate PhD students and Research Assistants Work with support staff, undergraduate and postgraduate students, and interact intellectually with other academic members of the group Contribute to events celebrating the public engagement of science/social sciences/humanities Develop an awareness of University structures, policies and procedures and relevant issues in the higher education, research, social and political environment Contribute to broader organisational and management processes and to co-ordinate the work of other colleagues where necessary

The Person

Knowledge, Skills and Experience

Experience of research in quantum information science and technologies (broadly defined) Interest and enthusiasm for quantum foundations Experience with the publication of work in peer reviewed journals and presentation of findings at conferences High level of analytical and problem-solving capability Excellent communication skills and ability to communicate complex information with clarity and to encourage the commitment of others

Desirable

Experience of research in quantum foundations Interest in one or more areas aligned with Dr Hance’s research interests Experience with the preparation of grants for submission to funder Experience in the supervision of undergraduate and postgraduate students

Attributes and Behaviour

Ability to work well as part of a team or collaborators. Ability to rapidly acquire new skills. Enthusiastic, well-motivated and hard working. Good attention to detail. Commitment to continued professional development.

Qualifications

PhD in a relevant subject (e.g., physics, computer science, engineering, mathematics)