3-year post-doc position, Combining on-chip circuit quantum electrodynamics and magnetic levitation to explore the interface between quantum mechanics and general relativity

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The Faculty of Science, Leiden Institute of Physics has a:

3-year post-doc position, Combining on-chip circuit quantum electrodynamics and magnetic levitation to explore the interface between quantum mechanics and general relativity

Vacancy number: 23-009

Project description

The project is funded by a European Research Council (ERC) Starting Grant. The project addresses one of the key challenges of modern physics: understanding the interface between quantum mechanics and general relativity. Recently, an experimental test was proposed that can directly witness the need to unify the two theories: observing quantum entanglement between objects that only interact through the gravitational field. A successful test would prove the existence of superpositions of space-time and have far-reaching implications on how we understand our world.

This project aims to develop and characterise an experimental platform that is compatible with the requirements for such a ‘entanglement through gravity’ experiment. The objectives of the research are to magnetically trap and levitate a small particle on-chip and control its centre-of-mass motion through the interaction with on-chip superconducting microwave circuits.

Key responsibilities

• Design, fabricate, test and on-chip superconducting microwave circuits
• Experimentally realize a levitation compatible setup at cryogenic temperatures.
• Publish academic papers and present at academic conferences;
• Provide daily supervision of the two PhD students on this project            
• Communicating closely and effectively with the team members; 
• Assist with teaching and student supervision;

The post-doc will work closely together with the PI and the two PhD students on this project, setting up the cryogenic measurement environment, designing, simulating and fabricating devices, and experimentally testing, characterising and measuring them.

Selection Criteria

• A PhD in physics, with a background in measurement or fabrication of quantum devices, levitation of nanoparticles or a related subject.
• Excellent command of the English language coupled with excellent communication skills;
• Well-developed research skills;
• Excellent social skills in order to be able to work in a team environment.
• Previous experience in clean-room fabrication techniques or measurement of superconducting quantum devices are an advantage.

Research at our faculty

The Faculty of Science is a world-class faculty where staff and students work together in a dynamic international environment. It is a faculty where personal and academic development are top priorities. Our people are committed to expand fundamental knowledge by curiosity and to look beyond the borders of their own discipline; their aim is to benefit science, and to make a contribution to addressing the major societal challenges of the future.

The research carried out at the Faculty of Science is very diverse, ranging from mathematics, information science, astronomy, physics, chemistry and bio-pharmaceutical sciences to biology and environmental sciences. The research activities are organised in eight institutes. These institutes offer eight bachelor’s and twelve master’s programmes. The faculty has grown strongly in recent years and now has more than 2,300 staff and almost 5,000 students. We are located at the heart of Leiden’s Bio Science Park, one of Europe’s biggest science parks, where university and business life come together.

Research at the Leiden Institute of Physics (LION) is foundational and curiosity driven. All our scientists share a desire to increase the knowledge of the world around us, in an open atmosphere of inquiry from which innovative ideas emerge that provide applications and value for society. One of our strengths is a close interaction between theory (at the Lorentz Institute) and experiment (in the Huygens-Kamerlingh Onnes Laboratory), with advanced theoretical modelling going hand in hand with the development of novel, world-class instrumentation.

For more information, see https://www.universiteitleiden.nl/en/science/physics  and  https://www.universiteitleiden.nl/en/working-at

Terms and conditions 

We offer a full-time appointment of initially one year, with an additional two-year extension after a positive evaluation of the progress of the research, personal capabilities and compatibility. Salary range from €2846,-  tot €4490,- gross per month (pay scale 10 in accordance with the Collective Labour Agreement for Dutch Universities), respectively.

Leiden University offers an attractive benefits package with additional holiday (8%) and end-of-year bonuses(8.3 %), training and career development and sabbatical leave. Our individual choices model gives you some freedom to assemble your own set of terms and conditions. Candidates from outside the Netherlands may be eligible for a substantial tax break.

Leiden University is strongly committed to diversity within its community and especially welcomes applications from members of underrepresented groups.

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