PhD student position

PhD student position in Macroscopic quantum experiments with magnetically levitated, micrometer-sized superconductors

Information about the project
The project is settled in the wider research field of exploring the quantum behavior of mechanical resonators. The vision is to develop quantum devices based on hybrid mechanical systems for quantum technologies and to explore the quantum behavior of macroscopic objects.

The PhD project explores the experimental platform of chip-based magnetic levitation of micrometer-sized superconducting particles. The goal of the project is to exploit the coupling of the levitated particle to superconducting LC resonators or qubits. This non-linear coupling allows enginnering of macroscopic quantum states of levitated particle motion. Such states are interesting per se, i.e., as macroscopic Schrödinger cats, and can also be used in the context of 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.

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, which 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 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, is located at MC2 at Chalmers and part of the Wallenberg Center for Quantum Technology. 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 or similar. The degree should generally not be older than three years. Experience with Superconductivity, Superconducting circuits, Quantum Optics, 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.

Chalmers continuously strives to be an attractive employer. Equality and diversity are substantial foundations in all activities at Chalmers.

Our offer to you
Chalmers offers a cultivating and inspiring working environment in the dynamic city of Gothenburg. 
Read more about working at Chalmers and our benefits for employees.

Application procedure
The application should be marked with Ref 20190698 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: 21 June, 2020