Research Assistant/Associate in Quantum Biosensing

Please note this post will close on 29 June 2026 at 23:45

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Overview. We are seeking a postdoctoral researcher to develop sensitive detection of multiple biomarkers based on optically detected spin resonance.

Background. By removing variable background signals in fluorescence-based assays, optically detected magnetic resonance (ODMR) of solid-state spins can yield several orders-of-magnitude enhanced detection of single biomarkers. This spin-enhanced sensitivity facilitates early detection. However, many disease presentations have overlapping symptoms, so multiple biomarkers are required for diagnosis. Through this position, you will develop capabilities for simultaneous, ODMR-enabled detection of multiple biomarkers by leveraging molecular spin states.

This position, based in the Quantum Optospintronics Group, is part of a collaborative project with the UK Quantum Biomedical Sensing Hub (Q-BIOMED). It combines our Group’s expertise in ODMR of molecular systems [e.g., Phys. Rev. Lett. 133, 120801 (2024); JACS 147, 22911 (2025)], with expertise at University College London and Imperial College London in spin-enhanced diagnostics, and molecular materials respectively.

The role. You will characterise and develop ODMR-active molecular spin systems which can be deployed for spin-enhanced detection of multiple biomarkers, opening up novel opportunities for ultrasensitive spin-enhanced biomedical diagnostics. You will play a leading role in this collaborative project; have access to state-of-the-art experimental capabilities; and have significant autonomy and opportunities for learning.

What we’re looking for. We are looking for a highly motivated researcher who holds (or is close to completing) a PhD in physics, chemistry, materials science, engineering, or a related discipline, with experimental experience in relevant topics, e.g., optically detected magnetic resonance.

We particularly welcome applications from candidates from groups which have been historically under-represented in STEM research, and are committed to fostering an inclusive, supportive, and flexible working environment in all our activities.

Informal enquiries. Please contact Dr. Sam Bayliss ([email protected]) for informal inquiries, any questions, and to discuss this position further.

How to apply. Please apply through the vacancy link, including:

• CV, with list of publications

• Cover letter describing your suitability and motivation for the role

• Contact details of two academic references

Job Purpose

You will contribute to  / make a leading contribution to developing spin-enhanced biomarker detection, working with Dr. Sam Bayliss in the Quantum Optospintronics Group. The successful candidate will also be expected to contribute to the formulation and submission of research publications and research proposals as well as help manage and direct this complex and challenging project as opportunities allow.

Main Duties and Responsibilities

Perform the following activities in conjunction with and under the guidance of the Principal/Co Investigator:

1. Plan and conduct assigned research individually or jointly in accordance with the project deliverables and project/group/School/College research strategy.

2. Document research output including analysis and interpretation of all data, maintaining records and databases, drafting technical/progress reports and papers as appropriate.

3. Develop and enhance your research profile and reputation and that of The University of Glasgow/School/Research Group, including contributing to publications of international quality in high profile/quality refereed journals, enhancing the research impact in terms of economic/societal benefit, and gathering indicators of esteem.

4. Contribute to the presentation of work at international and national conferences, at internal and external seminars, colloquia and workshops to develop and enhance our research profile.

5. Contribute to the identification of potential funding sources and to assist in the development of proposals to secure funding from internal and external bodies to support future research.

6. Collaborate with colleagues and participate in team/group meetings/seminars/workshops across the research Group/School/College/University and wider community.

7. Contribute to the organisation, supervision, mentoring and training of undergraduate and/or postgraduate students and less experienced members of the project team to ensure their effective development.

8. Perform administrative tasks related to the activities of the research group and School, including Budgets/Expenditure.

9. Carry out modest Teaching activities (e.g demonstrating etc) and associated admin as assigned by the Head of School and in consultation with Principal Investigator.

10. Keep up to date with current knowledge and recent advances in the field/discipline.

11. Engage in continuing professional development activities as appropriate.

12. Undertake any other duties of equivalent standing as assigned by the Head of School/Director of Research Institute.

13. Contribute to the enhancement of the University’s international profile in line with the University’s Strategic Plan, World Changers Welcome.

For appointment at grade 7:

14. Perform the above duties with a higher degree of independence, leadership and responsibility, particularly in relation to planning, funding, collaborating and publishing research, and mentoring colleagues. 15 Establish and sustain a track record of independent and joint published research to establish and maintain your expert reputation in the subject area.

16. Survey the research literature and environment, understand the research challenges associated with the project & subject area, & develop/implement a suitable research strategy.[PB1]

Knowledge, Qualifications, Skills and Experience

Essential

A1 Normally Scottish Credit and Qualification Framework level 10 (Honours Degree). May be working towards post-graduate qualification such as a Masters (Scottish Credit and Qualification Framework level 11) or PhD (Scottish Credit and Qualification Framework level 12) in physics, chemistry, materials science, engineering, or a related discipline. Or Equivalent professional qualifications in relevant academic/research discipline, and experience of personal development in a similar role.

A2 A comprehensive and up-to-date knowledge of the wider subject area or subject specialism.

A3  Demonstrable practical and theoretical skills aligned with the project (e.g., optically detected magnetic resonance).[PB2] [SB3]

For appointment at Grade 7:

A4 Normally Scottish Credit and Qualification Framework level 12 (PhD, or to obtain before starting the post) in a topic aligned with this position (e.g., physics, chemistry, materials science, engineering, or a related discipline),  plus a track record of emerging independence within a research/professional environment, or alternatively possess professional qualifications and experience equivalent to PhD level plus the requisite experience.

Skills

Essential:

C1 Proven ability to deliver quality outputs in a timely and efficient manner

C2 Excellent communication skills (oral and written), including ability to communicate complex data/concepts clearly and concisely.

C3 Excellent interpersonal skills including team working and a collegiate approach.

Experience

Essential:

E1 Sufficient depth of relevant research experience appropriate to an early career researcher.

E2 Sufficient and demonstrable experience carrying out research related to the project.

E3 Appropriate experience in undertaking independent research.

E4 Commitment to open research, as appropriate to the discipline, through open data, open code, open educational resources and practices that support replication.

E5 Commitment to supporting the career development of colleagues and to other forms of collegiality appropriate to the career stage.

For appointment at Grade 7:

E6 A track record of presentation and publication of research results in quality publications/conferences.

E7 Experience of making a leading contribution in academic activities.

E8 Ability to demonstrate a degree of independence as illustrated by identification of project objectives from assessment of the literature, design & analysis of experiments & drafting of papers.

E9 Experience in undertaking independent research.

E10 Experience of making distinct contributions to identifying and pursuing research funding (or equivalent business development) applications.

Terms and Conditions

Salary will be Grade 6/7: 6:  £33,951 - £37,694 / Grade 7: £41,064 - £46,049 per annum

This post is full time, and has funding for up to 7 months.

The University of Glasgow has a responsibility to ensure that all employees are eligible to live and work in the UK.  If you require a Skilled Worker visa to work in the UK, you will be required to meet the eligibility requirements of the visa route to be assigned a Certificate of Sponsorship.

Please note that this post may be eligible to be sponsored under the Skilled Worker visa route if tradeable points can be used under the Skilled Worker visa rules. For more information please visit: https://www.gov.uk/skilled-worker-visa.

As a valued member of our team, you can expect:

1 A warm welcoming and engaging organisational culture, where your talents are developed and nurtured, and success is celebrated and shared.

2 An excellent employment package with generous terms and conditions including 41 days of leave for full time staff, pension - pensions handbook https://www.gla.ac.uk/myglasgow/payandpensions/pensions/, benefits and discount packages.

3 A flexible approach to working.

4 A commitment to support your health and wellbeing, including a free 6-month UofG Sport membership for all new staff joining the University  https://www.gla.ac.uk/myglasgow/staff/healthwellbeing/.

We believe that we can only reach our full potential through the talents of all. Equality, diversity and inclusion are at the heart of our values. Applications are particularly welcome from across our communities and in particular people from the Black, Asian and Minority Ethnic (BAME) community, and other protected characteristics who are under-represented within the University. Read more on how the University promotes and embeds all aspects of equality and diversity within our community https://www.gla.ac.uk/myglasgow/humanresources/equalitydiversity/.

We endorse the principles of Athena Swan https://www.gla.ac.uk/myglasgow/humanresources/equalitydiversity/athenaswan/ and hold bronze, silver and gold awards across the University.

We are investing in our organisation, and we will invest in you too. Please visit our website https://www.gla.ac.uk/explore/jobs/ for more information.

Closing date: 29 June 2026 at 23:45