Job Description
About the Institution
University College London (UCL) is a globally recognised research-intensive university located in central London. With a community of more than 50,000 students and staff from over 150 countries, UCL combines academic excellence with a strong international outlook. Its alumni and faculty include 33 Nobel Prize laureates, reflecting a longstanding tradition of world-leading research and scholarship.
This position is based within the Department of Physics & Astronomy, part of UCL BEAMS (Built Environment, Energy and Materials Sciences).
The Opportunity
The Department invites applications for a Lecturer in Experimental Condensed Matter Physics to join its Condensed Matter and Materials Physics (CMMP) group.
We are particularly keen to appoint a researcher whose work strengthens or complements existing experimental strengths in areas such as:
- Order and excitations in solid and liquid phases
- Superconductivity and semiconductors
- Disordered materials
- Surfaces and interfaces
- Development of novel condensed matter systems
- Materials applications with fundamental scientific foundations
The CMMP group collaborates closely with leading research centres including the London Centre for Nanotechnology, as well as national facilities such as the ISIS Neutron and Muon Source and the Diamond Light Source.
Applicants may be specialists in advanced experimental method development or researchers who employ experimental techniques within a broader materials physics programme.
Your Role
Research Excellence
- Establish and lead an independent, internationally competitive research programme
- Publish in high-impact scientific journals
- Seek and secure external research funding
- Contribute to enhancing the department’s research profile
- Build collaborations nationally and internationally
Teaching & Academic Contribution
- Deliver undergraduate and postgraduate teaching in Physics
- Supervise research students
- Contribute to curriculum development
- Undertake standard academic administrative responsibilities
The successful candidate will be expected to combine research leadership with high-quality teaching and active participation in departmental life.
About You
You should have:
- A Degree and PhD in Physics or a closely related discipline
- At least one successful postdoctoral research period (academic, national facility, or industry)
- A strong and internationally visible publication record
- Evidence of originality and independence in research
- The ability to design and deliver engaging physics teaching at undergraduate and postgraduate levels
- You must also demonstrate the capacity to articulate a clear research vision, including resource planning, expected outcomes, and realistic timelines.
Application Requirements
Applicants must submit:
- CV (including full publication list)
- Cover letter
- Research statement (maximum 3 pages) outlining:
- Proposed research programme at UCL
- Contribution to departmental strengths
- Resource requirements and feasibility
- Expected outputs and timeline
- Contact details for three referees
- Informal enquiries can be directed to Prof Jochen Blumberger.
Visa & Immigration Information
This role qualifies for UK visa sponsorship. International applicants are warmly encouraged to apply.
For official guidance, please refer to:
- Skilled Worker visa
- Global Talent visa
- Employer sponsorship guidance
- Proving your right to work in the UK
- Academic Technology Approval Scheme (ATAS)
What UCL Offers
UCL provides a comprehensive and competitive benefits package, including:
- 41 days annual leave (including bank holidays and closure days)
- Option to purchase additional leave
- Defined benefit CARE pension scheme
- Cycle to work and season ticket loan schemes
- Immigration and relocation support (where applicable)
- On-site nursery and gym facilities
- Enhanced family leave provisions
- Employee Assistance Programme
- Discounted private medical insurance
Equality, Diversity & Inclusion
UCL is committed to building a diverse and inclusive academic community. Applications are particularly encouraged from individuals currently underrepresented in physics and higher education, including Black, Asian and minority ethnic candidates, disabled applicants, LGBTQI+ individuals, and women in senior academic grades.
The department proudly holds an Athena SWAN Silver Award in recognition of its commitment to advancing gender equality.