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 GeophysicistKEY 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 report2. 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) pT–fT 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 report3. 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 algorithms4. 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 interpretation5. 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 caseESSENTIAL 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 (SciPy, NumPy, Fatiando a Terra, QuTiP, 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: PhD 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.
Job Title
Research Analyst