Postdoc in Single photon quantum technologies

The Niels Bohr Institute
Faculty of Science
University of Copenhagen

The Niels Bohr Institute (NBI), University of Copenhagen, is seeking an enthusiastic researcher for a postdoc in the quantum photonics group (www.quantum-photonics.dk ) on next-generation single-photon quantum devices within the project “FIRE-Q: Field-Ready Single-Photon Quantum Technologies”. The position will be part of the Center for Hybrid Quantum Neworks (Hy-Q, https://hy-q.nbi.ku.dk/ ) led by Prof. Peter Lodahl. The center is a collaboration between the quantum nanophotonics group and the groups of Prof. Anders Sørensen (www.tqo.dk ) and Prof. Albert Schliesser  (www.nbi.dk/~aschlies/research.html ). In total the center employs approximately 50 scientists working on hybrid quantum networks.

The successful candidate will be joining the Innovation Fund Denmark’s FIRE-Q project. FIRE-Q is an international project between industry and academia involving three major Danish universities (University of Copenhagen, Technical University of Denmark, and Aarhus University) and four companies in photonic technology. FIRE-Q’s vision is to bring single-photon quantum technology to the market, enabling unbreakable secure communication and ultimately parallel quantum computing [1]. The key building block is a source of single photons [2] that can be transmitted over long distances in existing optical fiber networks. Following a modular approach, we will deliver the hardware required for photonic quantum computing in a scalable photonic platform. At NBI, we have developed a field-ready single-photon source at telecom wavelength using frequency conversion [3] together with industrial and academic partners. As a postdoc you will perform real-world field tests of quantum-secure communication protocols and develop new technology towards the realization of fully device-independent quantum key distribution systems [4].  

We are looking for an ambitious and driven researcher with strong applied- and innovation-oriented mindset, with a keen interest in working in applied research. The ideal candidate holds a Ph.D. in physics or optical engineering and has a strong experimental background in the areas of quantum optics, quantum photonics, or semiconductor optics. Experience working with cryogenic equipment, as well as quantum key distribution are a plus.

[1] R. Uppu et al, “Quantum-dot-based deterministic photon–emitter interfaces for scalable photonic quantum technology,” Nat. Nanotechnology 16, 1308-1317 (2021).

[2]  R. Uppu et al, “On-chip deterministic operation of quantum dots in dual-mode waveguides for a plug-and-play single-photon source,” Nat. Commun. 11, 3782 (2020).

[3] B. Da Lio et al, “A pure and indistinguishable single-photon source at telecommunication wavelength”, Adv. Quantum Technol., 2200006 (2022). https://onlinelibrary.wiley.com/doi/10.1002/qute.202200006  

[4] E. M. Gonzalez-Ruiz et al, “Violation of Bell's inequality with quantum-dot single-photon sources,” arXiv:2109.14712, (2022). https://doi.org/10.48550/arXiv.2109.14712

Further information on the Department is linked at https://www.science.ku.dk/english/about-the-faculty/organisation/ . Inquiries about the position can be made to Assoc. Prof. Leonardo Midolo, [email protected] and Prof. Peter Lodahl [email protected]

The position is for 2 years and open from 01.09.2022or as soon as possible thereafter.

The University wishes our staff to reflect the diversity of society and thus welcomes applications from all qualified candidates regardless of personal background.

Terms of employment

The position is covered by the Memorandum on Job Structure for Academic Staff.

Terms of appointment and payment accord to the agreement between the Ministry of Finance and The Danish Confederation of Professional Associations on Academics in the State.

Negotiation for salary supplement is possible.

The application, in English, must be submitted electronically by clicking APPLY NOW below.

Please include

• Curriculum vitae
• Diplomas (Master and PhD degree or equivalent)
• Research plan – description of current and future research plans
• Complete publication list
• Separate reprints of 3 particularly relevant papers

The deadline for applications is 10 (day) June (months) 2022 (year), 23:59 GMT +2.

After the expiry of the deadline for applications, the authorized recruitment manager selects applicants for assessment on the advice of the Interview Committee.

You can read about the recruitment process at https://employment.ku.dk/faculty/recruitment-process/ .

Interviews will be held on week 26

Part of the International Alliance of Research Universities (IARU), and among Europe’s top-ranking universities, the University of Copenhagen promotes research and teaching of the highest international standard. Rich in tradition and modern in outlook, the University gives students and staff the opportunity to cultivate their talent in an ambitious and informal environment. An effective organisation – with good working conditions and a collaborative work culture – creates the ideal framework for a successful academic career.