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Job Title: Research Associate in PhotonicsJob Reference: REQ260007Date Posted: Tue, 6 Jan 2026 00:00:00 GMTApplication Closing Date: Wed, 14 Jan 2026 00:00:00 GMTLocation: LoughboroughPackage: Specialist and Supporting Academic Research grade 6 from 35608This position is Full Time, Fixed Term.Postdoctoral Research Fellow in Experimental and Theoretical Photonics at the Emergent Photonics Research Centre. The duration of the position is originally for 2 years with the possibility of an extension for a further 2 years based on research requirements.The position is part the UK Hub for Quantum Enabled Position, Navigation and Timing (QEPNT), one of 5 UK hubs being delivered by the UKRI EPSRC as part of their Quantum Technology Programme. QEPNT is headed by University of Glasgow and other collaborators include: Imperial College London and the Universities of Bristol, Cambridge, Edinburgh, Strathclyde, Heriot-Watt, Queens University Belfast and Warwick. It is led at Loughborough University by Prof. Alessia Pasquazi.It involves the development of novel approaches towards the realisation of compact optical frequency combs in microresonators. Key to the project success are elements directly inherited from nonlinear photonics, fibre photonics, mode-locked lasers and optical frequency combs. This project transversely intersects the kernel of our research interests. The outcomes are likely to have a key impact in several domains, from quantum technologies to environmental sensing, metrology, manufacturing, and others.The successful applicant should have a PhD in a field related to our research areas, nonlinear photonics, ultrafast photonics, nonlinear wave propagation, and background preferably intersecting soliton theory and optical complexity with a good publication record. Previous experimental experience with photonic benches implementation would be desirable, along with basic knowledge of ultrafast laser operation and a history of international involvement and aggressive publication strategy. Evidence of potential leadership, independence and a strong motivation are also essential. Some of the typical tasks for this position include the operation of ultrafast fibre-lasers and optical frequency combs, the design of optical benches, the acquisition of data using fast electronics and their analysis.The successful candidate is expected to actively engage in our research plans, to provide guidance to undergraduate and postgraduate students, to participate in the strategic planning of the group and to contribute to drafting successful research bids. It is expected to travel among our network of collaborators. The salary offered will be appropriate to the qualifications, standing and experience of the successful candidate.For more information refer to theJob Description and Person Specification.Our BenefitsAt Loughborough, ourbenefitsare designed to support your life inside and outside of work, helping you to thrive and feel valued as part of our community. Examples of ourbenefitsinclude:Time off -generous holiday allowance, including 14 university closure days and bank holidays, with the option to buy extra through our holiday purchase schemeWhere you work access to a range of fantastic facilities with plenty of green space across our 523-acre East Midlands campus, plus an exciting community at our London campus on the Queen Elizabeth Olympic ParkFinancial wellbeing competitive pay, two excellent pension schemes, and everyday savings opportunitiesSupport for you and those close to you - through our range of life event leave policies as well as access to an on-site nursery at our East Midlands campus, flexible and hybrid working optionsHealth and wellbeing discounted gym memberships and access to world-class sporting facilities, including physiotherapy, plus healthcare offers such as eyesight testing and wellbeing supportTravel and sustainability-access to our electric vehicle and cycle-to-work schemes, as well as a variety of travel offers to support sustainable commutingDiscover moreabout the full range of rewards andbenefitsat Loughborough University.