Research Fellow (Multi-ion ¹⁷⁶Lu Optical Clocks)

Interested applicants are invited to apply directly at the NUS Career Portal. Please note your application will only be processed if you apply via NUS Career Portal.

NUS Career Portal link: https://careers.nus.edu.sg/job/Research-Fellow-%28Multi-ion-%C2%B9%E2%81%B7%E2%81%B6Lu%E2%81%BA-Optical-Clocks%29/33452-en_GB/

We regret that only shortlisted candidates will be notified.

About the Centre for Quantum Technologies (CQT)

The Centre for Quantum Technologies (CQT) in Singapore brings together physicists, computer scientists and engineers to do basic research on quantum physics and to build devices based on quantum phenomena. Experts in this new discipline of quantum technologies are applying their discoveries in computing, communications, and sensing.
CQT is hosted by the National University of Singapore. The Centre also has staff at the Agency for Science, Technology and Research, Nanyang Technological University, Singapore, and the Singapore University of Technology and Design. With some 200 staff and students, it offers a friendly and international work environment

Learn more about CQT at https://www.cqt.sg/

Job Description

Single-ion optical clocks are among the most precise instruments ever built — yet they are fundamentally limited by quantum projection noise. The next frontier is multi-ion operation: entangled and correlated ion crystals that deliver the stability of many atoms with the systematic control of a single trapped ion. Our group at CQT is pioneering this approach with ¹⁷⁶Lu⁺ , a species with uniquely low sensitivity to environmental perturbations. This postdoc offers the rare opportunity to work at the intersection of precision metrology, many-body quantum physics, and real-world timekeeping infrastructure.

Key Responsibilities

• Prepare and characterise multi-ion ¹⁷⁶Lu⁺ crystals in a linear Paul trap, developing robust protocols for ion loading and cooling.
• Implement and refine correlated clock interrogation schemes — Ramsey spectroscopy and spin-echo sequences — on ion ensembles to suppress noise below the standard quantum limit.
• Develop quantum state preparation and readout techniques optimised for multi-ion clock operation, including high-fidelity fluorescence detection of large crystals.
• Characterise and suppress collective systematic shifts in multi-ion configurations, contributing to a rigorous uncertainty budget for the ¹⁷⁶Lu⁺ clock transition.
• Explore entanglement-assisted sensing protocols and their practical implementation in a metrological context.
• Contribute to publications, conference presentations, and the broader activities of the CQT Lu+ clock programme.

Qualifications

• PhD in AMO physics, quantum optics, or a closely related field, completed or near completion.
• Hands-on experience with ion trapping, laser cooling, or precision spectroscopy in an experimental AMO setting.
• Familiarity with coherent control techniques: Ramsey spectroscopy, motional sideband manipulation, or quantum gate operations on trapped ions.
• Strong experimental instincts — ability to diagnose and solve complex technical problems independently.
• Experience with Python-based experiment control or real-time digital feedback systems is advantageous.
• A track record of research output commensurate with career stage.

Additional Information

What we offer:

• Competitive NUS postdoctoral salary.
• 2+1 years, renewable based on performance
• World-leading AMO group at the NUS campus.

To apply, please submit a CV, a brief cover letter (1 page) describing your relevant experience and motivation, and the names of two referees. Applications are considered on a rolling basis. Inquiries should be directed to Prof. Murray Barrett at [email protected]