PhD student in distributed quantum computing with giant atoms

This PhD position is part of the 5-year project "Quantum simulation and communication with giant atoms", funded by the Swedish Foundation for Strategic Research, with the aim of developing useful applications based on an exciting new paradigm in quantum optics: giant atoms. Giant atoms couple to light at multiple points, which gives rise to interference effects. In this project you will use both analytical and numerical tools to harness these interference effects to control emission and absorption from giant atoms that function as qubits, to enable quantum communication and distributed quantum computing. The project is carried out in the stimulating research environment of the Wallenberg Centre for Quantum Technology (WACQT), a 12-year, billion-SEK initiative started in 2018 with the purpose of advancing Swedish academia and industry to the forefront of quantum technology, and to build a Swedish quantum computer.

Information about the research project
In quantum optics, it is common to assume that atoms can be approximated as point-like compared to the wavelength of the light they interact with. It is only in the past few years that experiments (at Chalmers, MIT, and other places), with artificial atoms built from superconducting circuits, have shown that this assumption can be violated. These artificial atoms can couple to an electromagnetic field at several points, which can be wavelengths apart. The study of giant atoms and the interference effects that arise from their coupling points is still in its infancy, but it is attracting increasing attention. In this project, we aim to go from fundamental research towards useful applications of giant atoms in emerging quantum technology.

Information about the Applied Quantum Physics Laboratory
At the Applied Quantum Physics Laboratory (AQPL), we work on theoretical aspects of future high-performance nano-electronic systems. Our research covers a broad spectrum, from fundamental problems to very applied ones. We work in close collaboration with experimental groups such as the Quantum Technology Laboratory (QTL), especially within WACQT. For the research on giant atoms, we also have a long-standing collaboration with the experimental group of Prof. William Oliver at MIT.

The WACQT team at Chalmers currently has about 80 members (faculty, permanent research staff, postdoctoral researchers, PhD students, and undergraduate students) and is expanding. WACQT is committed to promoting career development, diversity, and gender equality through networking and supporting activities.

Our department Microtechnology and Nanoscience (MC2) is host to the state-of-the-art MC2 Nanotechnology Laboratory cleanroom, the largest such facility in Northern Europe, and our measurement lab at QTL is well equipped with cryogenic and microwave electronic equipment. We are in a position to build and operate large-scale quantum processors!

Major responsibilities
Your major responsibilities are to pursue your own doctoral studies by conducting research within your project, in collaboration and independently, leading to results that you will publish in journals and present at meeting and conferences.

Your studies also include coursework in your field and common core courses on generic and transferable skills. The position generally also includes teaching on the undergraduate level or other duties corresponding to up to 20 per cent of working hours. 

Qualifications
Required qualifications:
*Master's level degree corresponding to at least 240 higher education credits in Physics, or equivalent
*Excellent communication skills in written and spoken English
*Ability to program in high-level languages such as Python or C

Desired qualifications:
*Experience from working on quantum optics, quantum computing, or quantum communication

We value a collaborative attitude and an interest in working both in teams and independently. Self-motivation, attention to detail, and a problem-solving analytical ability are important personal qualities for this position.

If Swedish is not your native language, Chalmers offers Swedish courses.

Contract terms
Full-time temporary employment. The position is limited to a maximum of 5 years, depending on the amount of teaching and other duties you perform during your doctoral project.

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.

Learn more and apply on Chalmers website: https://www.chalmers.se/en/about-chalmers/Working-at-Chalmers/Vacancies/Pages/default.aspx?rmpage=job&rmjob=10787&rmlang=UK

Application deadline: September 30, 2022

*** Chalmers declines to consider all offers of further announcement publishing or other types of support for the recruiting process in connection with this position. *** 
   



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. The aim is to make an active contribution to a sustainable future using the basic sciences as a foundation and innovation and entrepreneurship as the central driving forces. 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!