PostDoc position: Quantum experiments with levitated particles

Do you want to perform quantum experiments with a mesoscopic system? This project is then the ideal fit. The goal of the project is to explore the generation of quantum states in the center-of-mass motion of levitated microparticles. This research project builds upon our group's expertise in magnetically levitating superconducting microparticles on a chip. The research is placed in the vibrant research environment at Chalmers, encompassing the Quantum Technology Laboratory at the Department MC2 and the Wallenberg Center for Quantum Technology.


About the project
Magnetic levitation of superconducting microparticles is a platform that greatly decouples the center-of-mass motion of a levitated mechanical resonator from its environment. This platform will enable ultra-sensitive force and acceleration sensors, as well as quantum experiments with macroscopic objects of 10^13 atomic mass units. The goal of the project is to generate quantum states in the center-of-mass motion of levitated microparticles. We will make this possible by merging magnetic levitation of superconducting microparticles with superconducting quantum circuits. Coupling these two platforms will allow us to reach quantum control over the motion of the levitated particles.


Information about the division and the department
The research project is experimental in nature, supervised by Prof. Dr. Witlef Wieczorek and funded by an ERC Consolidator Grant. The Wieczorek group is part of the Quantum Technology Laboratory (QTL) at the Department of Microtechnology and Nanoscience (MC2). The QTL performs cutting edge research in the field of quantum technologies and provides an international, creative and stimulating research environment. The Department MC2 houses a state-of-the-art cleanroom facility for micro- and nanofabrication, which is used by us for device fabrication. The project has ties to the Wallenberg Center for Quantum Technology (WACQT). WACQT at Chalmers encompasses research in quantum computing, quantum transduction, quantum sensing, and quantum foundations with a research base in experiment and theory providing a thriving and internationally leading research environment in the field of quantum technologies.

Details about the research group, the QTlab, and WACQT can be found at:
https://www.wieczorek-lab.com
https://www.chalmers.se/en/departments/mc2/research/quantum-technology/
https://www.chalmers.se/en/centres/wacqt/


Major responsibilities
We are seeking a highly motivated candidate for this PostDoc position. You should show initiative by proactively developing and contributing with your own research ideas within the frame of this advertised project. You will be taking active part in the supervision of bachelor, master thesis or PhD students. You will be embedded in a collaborative, stimulating, supportive, and inclusive environment, where team work is fostered and key for project success.


Qualifications
You should have obtained a PhD degree in Physics, Applied Physics, Engineering Physics, Microtechnology, Nanotechnology, or similar. Experience with quantum optics, quantum technology, superconducting 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.

To qualify for the position of postdoc, you must hold a doctoral degree awarded no more than three years prior to the application deadline (according to the current agreement with the Swedish Agency for Government Employers). Exceptions from the 3-year limit can be made for longer periods resulting from parental leave, sick leave or military service*.

You are expected to be somewhat accustomed to teaching, and to demonstrate good potential within research and education.

* The date shown in your doctoral degree certificate is the date we use, as this is the date you have met all requirements for the doctoral degree.

Contract terms
This postdoc position is a full-time temporary employment for two 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 20240457 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 as: CV, Surname, Ref. number) including:
• CV, include complete list of publications
• Previous teaching and pedagogical experiences
• 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:
• Attested copies of completed education, grades and other certificates.

Use the button at the foot of the page to reach the application form.

Please note: The applicant is responsible for ensuring that the application is complete. Incomplete applications and applications sent by email will not be considered.

Application deadline: 2024-09-30

 
For questions, please contact:
Dr. Witlef Wieczorek, Professor, MC2/QTLab,
witlef.wieczorek@chalmers.se, www.wieczorek-lab.com