PhD position: Quantum entanglement of levitated superconducting particles

Do you want to experimentally study limits of quantum mechanical behavior? This PhD project is then the ideal fit. The goal of the project is to explore the generation of quantum entanglement in the center-of-mass motion of levitated microparticles. This research project builds upon our group's expertise in magnetically levitating superconducting microparticles on a chip. The project is performed as part of an ERC Consolidator Grant. The research is placed in the vibrant research environment at Chalmers, encompassing the Quantum Technology Laboratory at the Department MC2 and the Wallenberg Center for Quantum Technology.

About the PhD project, the QTlab and WACQT
The goal of the PhD project is to explore the generation of quantum states, in particular entangled states, in the center-of-mass motion of levitated microparticles. These particles can weigh between nanogram and microgram. A fascinating and exciting part of the project will be to study potential mass-limits for generating these quantum states. The project will be based on the experimental platform of chip-based magnetic levitation of superconducting microparticles. Quantum states of the particle motion can then be generated by coupling the particle's motion to flux-sensitive superconducting circuits, such as flux-tunable microwave resonators or superconducting qubits. The tasks of the project encompass simulation, fabrication and experiments. We will train you in all required techniques such that you will get a head start for performing your project in our collaborative working environment.

The research project is experimental in nature, supervised by Assoc. Prof. Dr. Witlef Wieczorek and funded by an ERC Consolidator Grant. The Wieczorek group is part of the Quantum Technology Laboratory (QTLab) at the Department of Microtechnology and Nanoscience (MC2). The QTLab performs cutting edge research in the field of quantum technologies and provides an international, creative and stimulating research environment. The Department MC2 houses a state-of-the-art cleanroom facility for micro- and nanofabrication, which will be used by you for device fabrication. The Wallenberg Center for Quantum Technology (WACQT) is a 12-year initiative started in 2018 with the purpose of advancing Swedish academia and industry to the forefront of quantum technology. WACQT at Chalmers encompasses research in quantum computing, quantum transduction, quantum sensing, and quantum foundations with a research base in experiment and theory providing a thriving and internationally leading research environment in the field of quantum technologies.

Major responsibilities
We are seeking a highly motivated candidate for this PhD position. Your major responsibility is to pursue the goals of your research project and to pursue your own doctoral studies. You will receive adequate training such that you will reach these goals successfully. The position may also include some level of teaching as well as taking part in the supervision of bachelor or master thesis students. You will be embedded in a collaborative, stimulating and supportive environment, where team work is fostered and key for project success.


Qualifications
You should have obtained a Master's degree in Physics, Applied Physics, Engineering Physics, Microtechnology, Nanotechnology, or similar. The degree should generally not be older than two years. Experience with quantum optics, quantum technology, superconducting device technology and/or microfabrication is considered a merit. You shall 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.

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

We offer
Chalmers offers a cultivating and inspiring working environment in the coastal city of Gothenburg. 
Read more about working at Chalmers and our benefits for employees.

Chalmers aims to actively improve our gender balance. We work broadly with equality projects, for example the GENIE Initiative on gender equality for excellence. Equality and diversity are substantial foundations in all activities at Chalmers.

Application procedure
The application should be marked with Ref 20230419 and written in English. The application should be sent electronically and be attached as PDF-files, as below. Maximum size for each file is 40 MB. Please note that the system does not support Zip files.

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 experience of relevance for the position (e.g. education, thesis work and, if applicable, any other research activities)
• 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, e.g. TOEFL test results.

Application deadline: 2023-09-01



For questions, please contact:
Dr. Witlef Wieczorek, Associate Professor, MC2/QTLab
witlef.wieczorek@chalmers.se, www.wieczorek-lab.com
 



Chalmers University of Technology conducts research and education in engineering sciences, architecture, technology-related mathematical sciences, natural and nautical sciences, working in close collaboration with industry and society. The strategy for scientific excellence focuses on our six Areas of Advance; Energy, Health Engineering, Information and Communication Technology, Materials Science, Production and Transport. Chalmers has around 11,000 students and 3,000 employees. New knowledge and improved technology have characterised Chalmers since its foundation in 1829, completely in accordance with the will of William Chalmers and his motto: Avancez!