Postdoctoral Fellow - Physics at University of Otago

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Full Time

Start Date

Immediate

Expiry Date

04 Feb, 26

Salary

92350.0

Posted On

06 Nov, 25

Experience

0 year(s) or above

Remote Job

Yes

Telecommute

Yes

Sponsor Visa

Skills

Doctorate In Physics, Experimental Techniques, Atomic Physics, Molecular Physics, Optical Physics, Quantum Optics, Light-Matter Interaction, Research Passion, Interpersonal Skills, Communication Skills

Industry

Research Services

Description

__________ DEPARTMENT OF PHYSICS | TE TARI HŪ-O-TE-KŌHAO DIVISION OF SCIENCES | TE ROHE A AHIKĀROA About us | Mō mātou The University of Otago, established in 1869, has a long and distinguished tradition of teaching and research. Its Department of Physics was the first to be established in New Zealand and was one of the University’s foundation disciplines. The Department produced the first Bose–Einstein condensate in the Southern Hemisphere and currently hosts the national Centre of Research Excellence in Photonics and Quantum Technologies – the Dodd-Walls Centre – as well as Quantum Technologies Aotearoa (QTA), a national multi-institutional research programme. The Department also has particular strengths in affiliated areas through multiple active research groups. The Role | Te Mahi In this Postdoctoral Fellow position, you will join the light-matter research group of Professor Niels Kjærgaard to conduct original research in ultracold atomic physics. The project aims to study Rydberg-mediated interactions between ultracold atomic ensembles held in optical tweezers and is supported by a Marsden Fund Grant and the Dodd-Walls Centre for Photonic and Quantum Technologies. Over the past decade, our group has successfully used a steerable tweezer platform as an optical collider to investigate cold collisions between ultracold atomic clouds. In parallel, we have built up expertise on Rydberg electromagnetically induced transparency (EIT) in room-temperature vapour cells. This project will combine our optical tweezer capabilities with Rydberg EIT to study how the transmission of light through one ultracold atomic ensemble is affected by a photon stored in another distant ensemble, each held in separate tweezers. We are seeking a highly motivated and responsible individual keen to drive this development in a methodical and structured manner. You will also assist in the development and mentoring of graduate students. Our group is committed to delivering world-class research published in leading journals, and it is a key tenet of our work to provide a supportive and collaborative environment towards this end. Your skills and experience | Kā pūkeka me kā wheako • A Doctorate in Physics • Experience with experimental techniques in atomic, molecular, and optical physics • A solid grounding in quantum optics and light–matter interaction • High motivation, curiosity, and a passion for research • Excellent interpersonal and communication skills Further details | Pūroko This is a full-time, fixed-term position for two years available from January 2026, based in Dunedin. The appointment level for this role is $92,350 per annum. The Dunedin campus is consistently ranked among the most beautiful in the world. The city offers affordable living, a safe environment, and everything within walking distance. Spectacular outdoor activities await right at the doorstep. If you are looking for an exciting opportunity and would like to learn more about joining our team, please contact Professor Niels Kjærgaard via the contact details below. Application | Tono To submit your application, please click the apply button below. Applications quoting reference number 2501195 will close on Sunday, 11 January 2026. Candidates are requested to submit the following: • Cover letter • Curriculum Vitae, including a list of publications • Names and contact details of referees Additional Information Contact: Professor Niels Kjærgaard Position details: Information Statement Guidelines for Academic Positions: Guidelines Further Information: Department Website Create an email with a link to this vacancy: Create email Location: About Dunedin

Responsibilities

Conduct original research in ultracold atomic physics, focusing on Rydberg-mediated interactions. Assist in the development and mentoring of graduate students within a collaborative research environment.