Postdoc in Quantum Information Science with Superconducting Circuits

We are looking for a highly motivated post-doctoral researcher to join our ongoing research efforts in experimental quantum information science using superconducting circuits. Post-doctoral applicants with exceptional qualifications will be considered for a permanent researcher position. The expected start date for this position is August 1, 2020. We will start reviewing applications on April 13 and the position will be open until filled. Because our team is expanding, we expect to have more openings soon.

Information about the division
At the Quantum Technology division of the Microtechnology and Nanoscience (MC2) department, we pursue state-of-the art research in quantum information science, microwave quantum optics, and mechanical quantum devices. We are also part of the Wallenberg Centre for Quantum Technology (WACQT), a 12-year initiative, started in 2018, for the purpose of advancing Swedish academia and industry to the forefront of quantum technology, and to build a Swedish quantum computer.

Information about the project
In the last 15 years, superconducting circuits based on Josephson junctions have emerged as a leading architecture to build a quantum computer. A quantum bit of information is customarily represented using a pair of energy levels acting as a quantum two-level system. As an alternative strategy, one can encode the quantum bits in nonclassical states of harmonic oscillators (“bosonic encoding”), while still relying on non-linear circuits for state manipulation and readout. This latter approach presents advantages such as longer coherence times, resource-efficient quantum error correction, and well-understood loss channels. In this respect, we have recently developed a recipe to reproducibly fabricate three-dimensional microwave cavities with quality factors exceeding 100 million. We have also integrated a superconducting quantum system, together with its control and readout circuitry, into such a cavity.
The successful candidate will experimentally demonstrate quantum algorithms with bosonic encodings. Our agenda encompasses quantum error correction strategies as well as proof-of-principle demonstrations of real-world algorithms with industrial applications, to be initially performed on “noisy, intermediate scale quantum devices” (“NISQ”). To these ends, we will consider and validate different architectures and approaches. We will also leverage the intense developments that are currently underway in our division towards a discrete-variable, 100-bit quantum computer, at the hardware, firmware, and software levels.

Major responsibilities
You will perform experimental research, both individually and as part of our team, in the field of quantum information processing with superconducting circuits. Depending on your background and interests, you may contribute to aspects such as the following:

• Conceive and design novel quantum devices;
• Perform material studies and develop of nano-fabrication processes to advance the state of the art in qubit lifetime and coherence;
• Execute microwave measurements with nearly quantum-limited noise performance;
• Work on customize solutions to control a bosonic quantum processor;
• Integrate these solutions into a full software stack;
• Work on scalability issues.

In doing so, you will take advantage of the infrastructure and expertise available in our team and division. Your research will benefit from regular interactions with our theory collaborators based in neighboring divisions as well as in other institutions in Sweden and abroad. As a post-doc/researcher, we expect you to contribute to the informal supervision of younger graduate students.

Position summary
Full-time temporary employment.

Qualifications
You hold a PhD degree in Physics, Engineering Physics, or Applied Physics, or you plan to defend your PhD thesis before Sep 1, 2020. You have a strong interest in at least two of the following: experimental realizations of quantum processors, quantum information science, quantum optics, microwave engineering, nanofabrication. You see yourself as pursuing a career in research & development or education, either in the academia, or in the industry. You are driven by scientific curiosity and by a desire to make a difference. You can confidently read, write, and discuss science in English. We will consider outstanding candidates with proven track record in any field of physics. Previous experience in experimental condensed-matter physics, atomic, molecular, and optical (AMO) physics, and quantum optics will be regarded as an asset. A theory background in quantum optics and modeling of Josephson circuits will also be appreciated.

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 20200132 and written in English. The application should be sent electronically and be attached as pdf-files, as below:

CV: (Please name the document as: CV, Surname, Ref. number) including:
• Education
• Previous employments or leadership qualifications and positions of trust, if relevant
• Publication list
• Name and contact details of at least two references

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 MSc and PhD theses

Please use the button at the foot of the page to reach the application form. The files may be compressed (zipped).

For questions, please contact:
Dr Simone Gasparinetti, Quantum Technology, MC2
Email: simoneg@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. ***