Postdoctoral Research Associate in Molecular Optically Detected Magnetic Resonance

Overview

The Department of Materials at the University of Oxford is recruiting a Postdoctoral Research Associate in Molecular Optically Detected Magnetic Resonance, based at Begbroke Science Park in Oxford. Optically addressable solid-state electronic spins are central to emerging quantum technologies such as optical quantum networks and quantum sensors. Spins linked to defects have received much attention, while molecular spins are especially promising because of their chemical tunability, yet few molecular systems have shown optically detected magnetic resonance at ambient conditions.

The group wants to understand the molecular design rules that govern excited-state dynamics, optical properties, spin initialisation and spin coherence timescales. The postdoc will study excited-state and ground-state molecular spins on a homebuilt optically detected magnetic resonance setup and, working with researchers in Oxford and Cambridge, will build a structure-function relationship for molecular spin qubit candidates. The work complements the group's research on spin defects in solid-state materials such as hBN and links to existing collaborations on molecular spins across the Chemistry and Physics departments in Oxford.

Requirements

The department seeks an excellent candidate with a PhD, or near completion, in molecular spin physics, EPR, ODMR, solid-state quantum physics or a related area. The postholder will be part of the research team, designing and carrying out experiments, writing research articles, presenting at conferences and taking part in the training and management of PhD students.

What you get

The full-time, fixed-term post is on Grade 7 with pay of £39,424 to £47,779 per annum.

How to apply

Applications are made online through the Oxford University recruitment system and need a CV and a supporting statement. Manuscripts, papers, transcripts, mark sheets and certificates will not be considered.

Key dates

Applications must arrive by 12 noon on Monday 26 October 2026. Interviews take place at the Department of Materials on Friday 6 November 2026, and candidates must be available that day, either by video call or in person.