Paul Griffin

Professor Paul Griffin is a faculty member in the Department of Physics at the University of Strathclyde, Faculty of Science. He is an active researcher in atomic physics and quantum technologies, contributing significantly to the development of next-generation quantum devices. His affiliations include the Experimental Quantum Optics & Photonics (EQOP) research group, where he leads and participates in multiple funded projects focused on translating laboratory research into application-ready systems.

• Chancellor's Fellowship, University of Strathclyde (2015–present)
• Royal Society of Edinburgh Personal Research Fellow (2009–2014)
• Guest Researcher, National Institute of Standards and Technology (NIST), 2010–2011
• Postdoctoral Fellow, Georgia Institute of Technology (2005–2007)

Paul Griffin earned his BSc in Physics from the University of Limerick and his PhD in Atomic Physics from Durham University in 2005.

• BSc Physics, University of Limerick
• PhD Atomic Physics, Durham University

His research focuses on atomic physics and quantum technologies, particularly using lasers and atoms for precision measurement and atom-light interaction studies. Key research strands include atomic clocks, atom interferometry, optically-pumped magnetometry, ultra-cold atoms, Bose-Einstein condensates, and space applications of quantum technology. He is actively involved in developing compact, chip-scale components for quantum devices, bridging the gap between fundamental research and real-world applications.

His recent publications (2025) demonstrate a strong trend in miniaturized quantum systems, such as chip-scale atomic spectrometers, grating-based cold atom sources, and optical lattices. These works emphasize integration, scalability, and practical deployment of quantum sensors for navigation, timing, and space-based platforms. The research combines atomic physics with photonics and engineering to enable portable, high-precision instruments.

Paul Griffin has received competitive fellowships recognizing his research excellence:

• Chancellor's Fellowship (2015)
• Royal Society of Edinburgh Personal Research Fellowship (2009)
• Marie Curie CO-FUND Fellowship (2009)

He is actively involved in advising and mentoring, welcoming research project interns and PhD students. He serves as Principal or Co-investigator on multiple projects funded by Innovate UK, AWE plc, and ESA, including HARLEQUIN-ST, QEPNT, and the UK Quantum Technology Hub in Sensing, Imaging and Timing (QuSIT). These projects focus on quantum-enabled navigation, timing, and compact cold atom systems. His collaborative network spans national and international institutions, including NIST and the Institute of Physics.

Griffin is a key member of the Experimental Quantum Optics & Photonics (EQOP) group at Strathclyde, which advances quantum sensing, imaging, and timing technologies. The group develops integrated quantum systems, including vacuum cells, laser systems, and control electronics for field-deployable quantum devices. Their work supports applications in navigation, geophysics, and space exploration.