Quantum Optics and Laser Science Group - Imperial College, London (Blackett
Laboratory)

We are seeking a postdoctoral research assistant to work in the area of ion
trapping within the Quantum Optics and Laser Science (QOLS) group of the
Imperial College Physics Department.

Research at Imperial College in the area of ion traps is currently focussed
on the application of single (or a few) ions in a Penning trap as potential
processors of quantum information.  Our experiments are studying de-
coherence effects in calcium ions, which we have recently trapped and laser
cooled in the Penning trap for the first time. Other interests in the group
include the dynamics of trapped ions and the process of laser cooling in
the Penning trap. Please see http://www.qols.ph.ic.ac.uk/iontrap/ for
further information.

The new position is a three-year post funded by the HITRAP European
Research Network, which is opening a new aspect of ion trap research for
the group. The role of Imperial College within the network is to construct
a set-up for laser spectroscopy of highly-charged ions in Penning traps.
The focus will be on laser spectroscopy of ground state hyperfine structure
transitions in hydrogen-like highly-charged ions (e.g. bismuth), where the
transition occurs in the visible region of the spectrum. The ions will be
held within a cryogenic Penning trap located at the GSI heavy ion facility
in Darmstadt, Germany. The research assistant will be based at Imperial
College, where design, construction and initial testing will be performed.
Some time will be spent at GSI for final assembly and testing, and for on-
line experiments with highly-charged ions.

The successful candidate is expected to have a background in atomic and
laser physics. Previous experience of research with ion traps is desirable.
The research assistant will be expected to take the lead in the design of
apparatus and in modelling and testing the experimental system. He or she
will need to interact effectively with other members of the HITRAP network
in other European countries.

Salary will be in the range £17,626 to £26,491, plus £2,134 per annum
London Allowance, depending on qualification and experience.

Application forms are available from Dr Richard Thompson. Completed
applications should include (1) a CV, (2) a list of publications, and (3)
the names of two referees and sent to Dr Richard Thompson, QOLS Group,
Imperial College of Science, Technology and Medicine, Blackett Laboratory,
Prince Consort Road, London SW7 2BW, Email: [log in to unmask] Tel: +44
20 7594 7787, Fax: +44 20 7594 7714