PhD in Quantum-enhanced sensing with cavity optomechanical systems

Information about the project
The project is settled in the wider research field of exploring the quantum behavior of mechanical resonators. Our vision is to develop quantum devices based on hybrid mechanical systems for quantum technologies like quantum information processing or quantum-enhanced sensing. We are also interested in more fundamental questions such as exploring quantum behavior of macroscopic objects. The PhD project is situated in the field of cavity optomechanics, which explores the interaction between light and mechanical resonators. Light is an excellent and precise detector for mechanical motion. Even more, the optomechanical interaction allows for manipulating mechanical motion to a degree that quantum effects in mechanical resonators become dominant. The goal of the project is to reach and explore the intrinsic non-linear regime of the optomechanical interaction on the quantum level. This achievement allows exploring novel phenomena like optomechanical photon blockade or direct generation of non-classical mechanical states with applications in quantum sensing.

The project is experimental in nature and supervised by Assist. Prof. Witlef Wieczorek. The project is placed in the Quantum Technology Laboratory (QTLab) at the Department of Microtechnology and Nanoscience (MC2). The PhD position is allocated to the PhD graduate school of the Wallenberg Center for Quantum Technology (WACQT) and integrated in the Excellence Initiative Nano at Chalmers.

Details can be found here:
Research group - https://wieczorek-lab.com
QTlab - https://www.chalmers.se/en/departments/mc2/laboratories/qtl/Pages/default.aspx
WACQT - https://www.chalmers.se/en/centres/wacqt/Pages/default.aspx
EI Nano - https://www.chalmers.se/en/research/strong/nano/Pages/default.aspx

Information about the the Quantum Technology Laboratory (QTLab) at the Department of Microtechnology and Nanoscience (MC2)
The QTLab at MC2 performs cutting edge research in the field of quantum technologies. Quantum technologies rely on the ability to control matter on the quantum level. This level of control enables novel ways of processing information that allows quantum technologies to go beyond classical information processing capabilities. A major focus of the QTLab lies on building a quantum computer based on superconducting qubits. Furthermore, the QTLab explores quantum sensors based on mechanical resonators and quantum light sources based on 2d materials. The QTLab provides an international, creative and stimulating research environment and is located at the Department of Microtechnology and Nanoscience (MC2) at Chalmers. The Department MC2 focuses on research, innovation and education within the fields of future electronics, photonics, bio- and nanosystems. A close collaboration with Swedish and international partners within academia, industry and society enables scientific excellence and creates an innovative environment. In addition to the more than 200 researchers and PhD students working at MC2, the department houses a cleanroom for state-of-the-art micro- and nanofabrication.

Major responsibilities
Your major responsibility is to pursue the goals of your research project and to pursue your own doctoral studies. You are also expected to develop own ideas and find your own ways of tackling research challenges during the project's runtime. The position may also include some level of teaching duties as well as taking part in the supervision of bachelor or master students. You will work in a collaborative environment, where team work is essential for project success.

Position summary
Full-time temporary employment. The position is limited to a maximum of five years.

Qualifications
You should have obtained a Master's level degree corresponding to at least 240 higher education credits in Physics, Applied Physics, Engineering Physics, Microtechnology, Nanotechnology, Photonics or similar. The degree should generally not be older than three years. Experience with Quantum Optics, Quantum Technology, MEMS/NEMS device technology and/or Microfabrication is considered a merit. We want you to be self-propelled with a strong driving force to pursue excellent experimental research in a collaborative environment. The position requires sound verbal and written communication skills in English. 

Application procedure
The application should be marked with Ref 20190697 and written in English. The application should be sent electronically and be attached as pdf-files, as below:

CV: (Please name the document: CV, Family name, Ref. number)
• CV
• Other, for example previous employments or leadership qualifications and positions of trust.
• Two references that we can contact.

Personal letter: (Please name the document as: Personal letter, Family name, Ref. number)
1-3 pages where you:
• Introduce yourself
• Describe your previous research fields and main research results
• Describe your future goals and future research focus

Other documents:
• Copies of bachelor and/or master’s thesis.
• Attested copies and transcripts of completed education, grades and other certificates, eg. TOEFL test results.

Please use the button at the foot of the page to reach the application form. The files may be compressed (zipped).

Application deadline: 28 February, 2020