Postdoctoral Research Assistant in frequency and bandwidth conversion of single photons for distributed entanglement networks

About this role

The Department of Materials at the University of Oxford is seeking a highly motivated Postdoctoral Research Associate to contribute to the Integrated Quantum Networks Hub (IQN Hub), a major UK initiative developing the next generation of quantum networking technologies.

This exciting role focuses on frequency and bandwidth conversion of single photons for distributed entanglement networks, supporting the development of practical quantum networking demonstrators. The successful candidate will undertake a comprehensive review of existing wavelength and bandwidth conversion technologies and help define strategies for integrating quantum light sources and quantum memories into future network architectures.

You will:

• Lead a technical review of wavelength and bandwidth conversion methods for quantum networks.
• Develop a strategic roadmap for implementation within the IQN Hub.
• Collaborate with leading academic and industry partners, including Covesion Ltd.
• Contribute to publications and written reports.
• Present findings and engage with researchers across the Hub network.

About You

We are looking for a talented and motivated researcher with a PhD/DPhil in Physics and a strong background in quantum optics. You will have excellent communication skills, including the ability to write for publication and present complex scientific ideas clearly to a range of audiences. Strong project management and organisational skills are essential, together with experience contributing to research publications and presentations. The successful candidate will also be willing to travel within the UK to collaborate with partners across the Integrated Quantum Networks Hub. Desirable experience includes working with single-photon frequency conversion technologies and contributing to collaborative research publications.

About the Project

This project forms part of the Integrated Quantum Networks Hub and focuses on one of the key challenges in the development of future quantum communication systems: the frequency and bandwidth conversion of single photons for distributed entanglement networks. The successful candidate will undertake a comprehensive review of existing approaches and technologies for wavelength and bandwidth conversion, assessing their suitability for connecting quantum light sources and quantum memory platforms within practical quantum networks. Working closely with academic collaborators across the Hub and industry partner Covesion Ltd, the postholder will help develop strategies for integrating these technologies into network demonstrators, ranging from long-distance optical fibre links of approximately 100 km to shorter-range heterogeneous quantum networks. The outcomes of this work will help shape the future architecture of scalable quantum networks and support the UK's ambitions in quantum technology research and innovation.

How to Apply

All applications must be made online using the Oxford University E-Recruitment system, no later than 12 noon on 30 October 2026. You will be required to upload a CV and a Supporting Statement as part of your application. Please do not attach any manuscripts, papers, transcripts, mark sheets or certificates as these will not be considered as part of your application.

Only applications received online by 12.00 midday (GMT) on 30 October 2026 can be considered. Interviews are scheduled to take place at the Department of Materials on Friday 6 November 2026 and you must be available on this date, either by Teams or in person.

Please do let us know if you require any more information. Many thanks for your assistance in advance.