PhD students in Quantum Nanophotonics

Our ambitious goal at Chalmers is to build a useful quantum computer. The complexity of today's quantum computers must be increased massively to solve problems of practical significance in chemistry, medicine, and others. We are forming a new interdisciplinary team exploring nanoscale optical and superconducting devices to help increase the power of quantum processors. We are seeking motivated PhD students to join us in a unique endeavor at the cutting edge of integrated photonics and quantum engineering.

Information about WACQT, the project and the division
This project is part 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. It is also funded by the European Research Council.

Building a quantum computer requires a multidisciplinary effort involving experimental and theoretical physicists, photonics and microwave engineers, computer scientists, software engineers, and researchers in materials science and nanotechnology. At Chalmers we are developing the quantum devices, control circuits, firmware, and fabrication methods required to make the quantum computer a reality.

Our approach to quantum computing uses high-fidelity cryogenic microwave qubits. However, it is currently impossible to connect the qubits well beyond a single refrigerator while preserving their fragile quantum properties - creating major challenges in scaling. Optical photons, with their long-distance and near-noiseless propagation along room-temperature fibers, are uniquely placed to tackle this challenge. We will study nanophotonic devices to connect several smaller quantum processors into a large quantum computer. Doing so, we will establish a new interdisciplinary team in photonics and quantum engineering.

Our new team is part of the Quantum Technology division of the Department of Microtechnology and Nanoscience (MC2). We work with the experimentalists in the Photonics division and the theorists at the Applied Quantum Physics division. The larger effort currently has about 50 researchers and is expanding rapidly. Our department hosts the state-of-the-art MC2 Nanotechnology Laboratory cleanroom, the largest such facility in Northern Europe. We have cutting-edge cryogenic, microwave and optical measurement capabilities at our disposal, including seven dilution fridges. We are in a position to build and operate large-scale quantum processors!

Major responsibilities
As a PhD student, your main responsibility is to conduct research. You will be expected to help develop the team and contribute with your creative ideas. The ideal candidate has experience with nanofabrication, photonics, cryogenics and/or superconducting circuits. 

Qualifications
To qualify for these positions you should have a Master's degree in Photonics, Physics, Applied Physics, Electrical Engineering, Nanotechnology, or equivalent by the starting date at the latest. Candidates holding a Bachelor's degree may qualify in certain cases. You need to be fluent in English (spoken and written). 

We value a collaborative attitude and an interest in working both independently and collaboratively in a team environment, sharing best practices and assuming responsibility. Self-motivation, attention to detail, and a problem-solving analytical ability are important personal qualities for these positions.

Position summary
Full-time temporary employment. The position is limited to a maximum of five years and your starting date is negotiable. We offer a competitive salary and excellent working conditions!

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

Application procedure
The application should be marked with Ref 20210133 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 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:
• Add web links to your three best publications or preprints (if any) and your thesis, if available. Add a short description (a few sentences) of each of your three best publications (if any) and your contributions to it.
• 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. The files may be compressed (zipped).

Application deadline: Applications are reviewed continuously. The positions are open until filled.

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