AdressPostdoc position in experimental quantumscience and technology with superconducting circuits
We are looking for a highly motivated postdoctoral researcher to join our team dedicated to experimental research using superconducting circuits.
Information about the division
At the Quantum Technology division of the Microtechnology and Nanoscience department (MC2), 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 to advance Swedish academia and industry to the forefront of quantum technology, and to build a Swedish quantum computer.
In our group, the 202Q-lab, we use superconducting circuits to pursue fundamental and applied research. Our main directions include quantum computing with bosonic modes, quantum thermodynamics, and quantum-enabling technologies. Our research is funded by WACQT, the Swedish Research Council, the European Research Council (ERC), and the European Innovation Council (EIC).
Project description
The successful candidate will join our experimental team and choose one of the three pillars of our research activities to specialize in: quantum thermodynamics, quantum computing with bosonic modes, and quantum-enabling technologies.
Quantum Thermodynamics: This research direction aims to deepen our understanding of thermodynamic principles at the quantum level. You will investigate how quantum systems exchange energy and information. This pillar offers the chance to study one-of-a-kind quantum thermal machines functioning as heat engines, quantum refrigerators, and autonomous clocks.
Bosonic modes: Building on our group's recent achievements in the preparation, manipulation, and tomography of quantum information encoded in highly coherent bosonic modes, this effort focuses on the advanced aspects of quantum information processing using continuous-variable systems. You will work on exploiting the high dimensionality of bosonic mode Hilbert spaces, implementing sophisticated quantum error correction protocols, and extending our platform to multiple microwave cavities. The aim is to demonstrate a verifiable quantum speed-up advantage and to explore the potential benefits of bosonic architectures, such as longer coherence times and resource-efficient quantum error correction.
Quantum-Enabling Technologies: This research direction involves the development of next-generation technologies essential for advancing quantum applications. It includes designing novel components such as electromagnetic filters and quantum chip shielding as well as enhancing hardware efficiency by developing microwave switches vital for scaling quantum computing.
Our group works in close collaboration with both theoretical and experimental groups at the WACQT center which offers a rich research environment with access to a broad range of competences and expertise including, but not limited to, fundamental quantum physics, superconducting devices, nanofabrication and microwave engineering. The designs, workflows, fabrication processes and measurement techniques are closely related to those of traditional superconducting qubits. Hence, we work in close collaboration with the core effort within the WACQT center to build a large-scale quantum computer.
Major Responsibilities
You will perform experimental research, both individually and as part of our team, working with superconducting circuits. Depending on your background and interests, you may contribute to aspects such as the following:
• conceive and design novel quantum devices;
• execute microwave measurements with nearly quantum-limited noise performance;
• work on customized solutions to control bosonic modes;
• work on multi-mode aspects of bosonic platforms;
• perform material studies and develop nanofabrication processes to advance the state of the art in qubit lifetime and coherence;
• fabricate superconducting devices for your own project as well as for other teams in our group;
• contribute with any of your prior fabrication expertise, potentially as a lead member of our fabrication team.
In doing so, you will take advantage of the extensive 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 postdoc we expect you to contribute to the informal supervision of younger graduate students.
Qualifications
You either hold a PhD degree in Physics, Engineering Physics, Applied Physics or Electrical engineering, or plan to defend your PhD thesis soon, ideally before May 1, 2024. You have a strong interest in at least two of the following: experimental realizations of quantum processors, quantum information science, quantum optics, superconducting devices, microwave engineering, nanofabrication. You see yourself as pursuing a career in research & development or education, either in academia, or in 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 a proven track record in any field of physics, engineering physics and nanotechnology. Previous experience in nanofabrication, especially of superconducting circuits or mesoscopic electronic devices, will be regarded as an asset. Acquaintance with experimental condensed-matter physics, atomic, molecular, and optical (AMO) physics, microwave measurements, and quantum optics is also appreciated.
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.
For more information about what we offer, please visit Chalmers website.
