Postdoc in Quantum-Optical Networks with Solid State Spins and Photons
Postdoc in Quantum-Optical Networks with Solid State Spins and Photons
Danmarks Tekniske Universitet
A unique research opportunity is available at the Department of Physics, Technical University of Denmark (DTU). We are offering a postdoc position for 2 years to work on a recently initiated project on controlling the emission and spins of solid state emitters towards the grand aim of constructing a quantum network.
The project will be hosted in the section for Quantum Physics and Information Technology (QPIT) at DTU Physics and is carried out in collaboration with partners from Ulm University/Germany, Humboldt University Berlin/Germany and Harvard University/USA. In QPIT we conduct widely recognized research within a range of diverse topics such as continuous-variable quantum information processing, quantum enhanced sensing, and engineering of solid state quantum systems.
Isolated spins in solid state systems hold great promise as the fundamental quantum bits in quantum information science. If these spins are effectively coupled to optical photons, distant spins can be connected (entangled) which eventually might result in the formation of a quantum network. In the present project we will exploit Nitrogen-Vacancy centers in diamond membranes (and other defect centers) coupled to micro-cavities or nanoscopic metallic wires to enable an efficient and clean coupling between a spin and a photon. The interface will be used to enable sharp measurements of the spin, the generation of non-classical photonic and spin states (such as entangled and squeezed states) and full characterization and control via homodyne detection. The experiments will be performed at low temperatures.
Responsibilities and tasks
The successful candidate will be part of a team dedicated to the design and development of solid state platforms for quantum information processing and sensing.
Some of the tasks involved are:
- experimental planning, design, and implementation
- construction of a cryogenic setup for the optical investigation of solid state emitters
- theoretical and numerical simulation and analysis
- programming of experimental control software
- mentoring PhD and master students
Qualifications
Candidates should have a PhD degree or equivalent. We expect the applicant to hold expertise in some of the following areas
- Optical characterization of solid state devices at cryogenic temperatures
- Experimental quantum optics
- Programming in Labview and/or Python for experimental control, data acquisition, and data analysis
In addition, we expect the candidate to be highly motivated and dedicated to work on challenging experiments. Furthermore, the successful candidate will have very good communication skills in English, to be able to work closely with other team members, and we highly value scientific curiosity and creativity.
We offer
We offer an interesting and challenging job in an international environment focusing on education, research, public-sector consultancy and innovation, which contribute to enhancing the economy and improving social welfare. We strive for academic excellence, collegial respect and freedom tempered by responsibility. The Technical University of Denmark (DTU) is a leading technical university in northern Europe and benchmarks with the best universities in the world.
Salary and terms of employment
The appointment will be based on the collective agreement with the Confederation of Professional Associations. The allowance will be agreed with the relevant union. The period of employment is 2 years.
Workplace
QPIT's vision is to understand, engineer and control complex quantum systems of light and matter, and to exploit these systems for quantum information processing and quantum metrology.
We are a medium-sized, highly international research group of students and staff with diverse backgrounds. We have a friendly and dynamic research environment with close, daily interaction among all group members and strong collaborations with many academic and industrial partners. Technical support is excellent with electronics and process engineers embedded in the section and a large capacity, skilled mechanical workshop at the Department.
We are situated just north of Copenhagen at the Lyngby campus of DTU, one of the leading technical universities of Northern Europe, where we enjoy newly renovated office and lab space.
Further information
The project is funded by the Danish council for independent research under the Separé Aude top-researcher program.
For further information, please contact the project and section leader Prof. Ulrik Lund Andersen at ultrik.andersen@fysik.dtu.dk or Asst. Prof. Alexander Huck at alexander.huck@fysik.dtu.dk.
Learn more about QPIT, the Department of Physics, and DTU at http://www.fysik.dtu.dk/english/Research/QPIT
Application procedure
Please submit your online application no later than 8 May 2016. Applications must be submitted as one PDF file containing all materials to be given consideration. To apply, please open the link "Apply online," fill in the online application form, and attach all your materials in English in one PDF file. The file must include:
- Application (cover letter)
- CV
- Diploma (an official translation into English)
- List of publications
Applications and enclosures received after the deadline will not be considered.
All interested candidates irrespective of age, gender, disability, race, religion or ethnic background are encouraged to apply.
DTU is a technical university providing internationally leading research, education, innovation and public service. Our staff of 5,800 advance science and technology to create innovative solutions that meet the demands of society; and our 10,300 students are being educated to address the technological challenges of the future. DTU is an independent academic university collaborating globally with business, industry, government, and public agencies.