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 Universitys foundation disciplines. The Department produced the first BoseEinstein 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 within the project Quantum-Enabled Rydberg Atomic Polarimetry of Radio-Frequency Fields - A New Paradigm for Antenna Characterisation supported by Quantum Technologies Aotearoa (QTA) which will involve collaborations with research groups in Germany and the UK.

The project will deliver a working prototype of a quantum-enabled 3D scanning unit for measuring antenna patterns and polarization properties in the GHz to THz frequency domain. The transducer of the scanning unit is based on miniature non-metallic vapour cells containing rubidium atoms. Using laser light the atoms are connected to Rydberg states where they become very sensitive to external electric fields. By appropriate choice of the atomic quantum states in play the state of polarization of the incoming field can be determined

We are seeking a highly motivated and responsible individual keen to drive this development within instrumentation 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
Experience in embedded programming and Python an advantage
A solid grounding in quantum optics and lightmatter 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 Ōtepoti Dunedin.

The appointment level for this role is $92350 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 numberwill 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

Postdoctoral Fellow Physics (Rydberg Atomic Sensing)