PhD student position in experimental quantum optomechanics

We invite applications for a PhD position in experimental quantum optomechanics. This research project is part of a larger Chalmers project (2023-2028) aimed at realizing optomechanical systems deep in the quantum regime. You will thus be part of a newly formed team of PhD students and postdocs in different local experimental and theoretical groups working towards a common goal. For this PhD project, we seek a highly motivated candidate with an interest in performing experiments in the field of optomechanics, while still maintaining a close contact with theory.

Project description
The research project is placed in the field of quantum optomechanics, which explores the quantum behaviour of optomechanical devices and their application in quantum technologies. Quantum optomechanics is a vibrant research field spanning several disciplines within physics. At its heart lies the minute interaction between light and mechanical motion that is realized in optomechanical devices. Operation of optomechanical devices deep in the quantum regime requires minimization of any loss mechanism - be it mechanical or optical - and maximization of the mutual interaction strength. Optomechanical devices are now routinely fabricated at Chalmers clean room, but a main challenge in the field is to realize a strong interaction between single quanta of mechanical motion and single quanta of the light field. The goal of this project is to lift this limitation and to realize novel optomechanical devices that are specially engineered using inverse design and machine learning methods.

This PhD project is experimental in nature and will be embedded within the recently funded 5-year Wallenberg project "Light strongly interacting with mechanical motion: Nonlinear quantum optomechanics with photonic crystal-based nanomechanical resonators", which unites expertise at Chalmers in performing optomechanics experiments at room and low temperatures, modeling of nanomechanical and optical properties using conventional and machine-learning methods and the theoretical description of optomechanical systems. You will have regular exchange with the project partners. These exchanges will guarantee a mutual knowledge transfer that benefits the common project goals.

Information about the division and the department
The research project is experimental in nature and supervised by Assoc. Prof. Dr. Witlef Wieczorek. 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. A major focus of the QTLab lies on building a quantum computer, exploring quantum sensing technologies, and realizing quantum transducers. The QTLab provides an international, creative and stimulating research environment. The laboratory has access to excellent in-house clean-room facilities at the Nanofabrication Laboratory of MC2 for fabricating state-of-the-art devices.

Major responsibilities
We seek a highly motivated and outstanding 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 duty 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, Photonics or similar. The degree should generally not be older than two years. Experience in Quantum Optics, Quantum Technology, Optomechanics, MEMS/NEMS 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. 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 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 20230067 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.

Please use the button at the foot of the page to reach the application form. 

Application deadline: 16-04-2023

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

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