Postdoc in simulation of open quantum systems with giant atoms

This postdoc 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 the interaction between giant atoms (which function as qubits) and their surroundings, to create quantum-simulation protocols for large molecules. 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 responsibility as a postdoc is to develop protocols using giant atoms for quantum simulation of open systems. This will include both analytical and numerical work, and also communication with experimentalists who can implement the protocols that are developed in this project. You may also help to supervise PhD students working on other uses of giant atoms for quantum technology. The position is meritorious for future research duties within academia as well as industry/the public sector.

Qualifications
Required qualifications:
*PhD in Physics or neighbouring fields obtained no more than three years prior to the application deadline (according to the current agreement with the Swedish Agency for Government Employers)
*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 simulation, quantum chemistry, quantum optics, or quantum computing

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.

Swedish is not a requirement but Chalmers offers Swedish courses.

Contract terms
This postdoc position is a full-time temporary employment for three 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.

Learn more and apply on Chalmers website: https://www.chalmers.se/en/about-chalmers/Working-at-Chalmers/Vacancies/Pages/default.aspx?rmpage=job&rmjob=10786&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!