Research analyst

ROLE OVERVIEW
We are seeking an exceptional Quantum Physicist to lead the physics, modelling, and experimental validation components of a cutting-edge feasibility project. The project aims to demonstrate that quantum gravimeters and quantum magnetometers can detect subsurface hazards (voids, water ingress, weak ground) beneath UK transport infrastructure.
The Quantum Physicist is responsible for building the physical models, designing and executing calibration experiments with partner labs, interpreting sensor behaviour, and ensuring the scientific credibility of the AI-driven anomaly detection platform.
You will work directly with the Data Scientist and Geophysicist
KEY RESPONSIBILITIES
1. Physics Modelling & Simulation
You will lead all quantum-physics and geophysical modelling.
Tasks
Develop forward models for:
quantum gravimeter response to voids, sinkholes, water ingress
Quantum magnetometer response to ferrous and geological structures
Implement analytical or numerical models for:
mass-density contrasts
gravitational fields and gradients
magnetic susceptibility contrasts
Create realistic, physics-accurate synthetic datasets for AI training.
Model the sensor’s transfer function, including:
vibration coupling
laser phase noise
interferometer stability
gravity-gradient and magnetic-gradient effects
Work closely with the AI Specialist to verify the realism of simulated signatures.
Outputs
Complete simulation library of hazard scenarios
Physics-based anomaly maps
Sensor-response modelling report
2. Laboratory Calibration & Controlled Experiments
Lead calibration and validation using university & metrology facilities (no physical presence required)
Tasks
Prepare and configure the quantum sensor testbed:
atom interferometer alignment
optical system stability
magnetometer sensitivity optimisation
vibration isolation and environmental control
Run controlled experiments with known reference anomalies:
known masses (gravity)
void analogues
water-equivalent targets
magnetic inclusions
Quantify sensor sensitivities:
sub-µGal sensitivity (gravity)
p T–f T sensitivity (magnetics)
Characterise:
repeatability
drift
temperature dependence
noise bandwidths
Collaborate with NPL to obtain traceable metrology validation.
Outputs
Calibration curves
Sensitivity thresholds
Noise characterisation dataset
Month 2 laboratory feasibility report
3. Sensor Interpretation & Noise Analysis
You will be the primary owner of understanding what the sensor is actually measuring.
Tasks
Decompose recorded signals into:
true anomaly signatures
platform-induced noise
environmental artefacts
quantum projection noise
Work with IMU data to model motion-induced biases.
Support the AI team by delivering:
corrected time-series
noise models
uncertainty estimates
Recommend optimised data-acquisition protocols for future field deployments:
sampling rates
cycle times
motion constraints
Outputs
Sensor noise PSDs
Transfer function models
Motion/noise compensation algorithms
4. Integration with AI
The physicist ensures AI models stay physically meaningful.
Tasks
Translate physics constraints into data features.
Define which anomaly signatures are physically plausible.
Validate whether AI-detected anomalies are physically consistent.
Guide feature engineering:
gradients
curvature
bandwidth of anomalies
Assist in fusing gravity & magnetic data into a joint physical interpretation.
Outputs
Physics-constrained ML feature set
Validation notes for anomaly detections
Joint gravity–magnetic hazard interpretation
5. Technical Leadership in Hazard Interpretation (Month 3)
Support production of the transport use case and business case.
Tasks
Determine detection thresholds for each hazard type:
minimum void size
maximum detectable depth
water ingress sensitivity
Build capability envelopes (performance charts).
Provide a scientific assessment of feasibility.
Outputs
Sensitivity/detection threshold maps
Technical content for final feasibility report
Contributions to transport use case & business case
ESSENTIAL SKILLS & EXPERIENCE
Quantum Sensing & Atomic Physics
Experience with cold-atom interferometry, quantum gravimetry, or atomic magnetometry.
Understanding of:
Rabi/Raman transitions
laser phase noise
atom optics
magnetic resonance in atomic vapour cells
Geophysical Modelling
Understanding of gravity and magnetic fields in Earth sciences.
Experience with forward modelling and inversion.
Laboratory Experimental Skills
Hands-on experience building or operating:
optical setups
vacuum systems
laser systems
magnetically shielded environments
Ability to design and run controlled physics experiments.
Signal Processing
Experience in analysing noisy scientific data.
Familiarity with FFTs, PSD analysis, and filtering.
Software Skills
Python, MATLAB, or similar scientific computing tools.
Experience with modelling libraries (Sci Py, Num Py, Fatiando a Terra, Qu Ti P, COMSOL).
Communication
Ability to explain complex physics to engineers and non-physicists.
Strong technical writing for reports and publications.
DESIRABLE SKILLS
Experience with quantum gravimeters from Exail, Muquans, Atomionics, Aquark, or research prototypes.
Understanding of geotechnical engineering or subsurface hazards.
Familiarity with drones, mobile mapping, or rail/road instrumentation.
Knowledge of Bayesian filtering, Kalman filters, or motion-compensation methods.
Prior work in NPL, university quantum labs, or national labs a plus.
QUALIFICATIONS
Essential:
Ph D in Atomic Physics, Quantum Optics, Quantum Sensing, Experimental Physics, or a closely related field OR
Highly relevant industrial/research experience with proof of technical capability.
Preferred:
Postdoctoral or industry experience in quantum sensing or precision metrology.