PhD Position in Quantum Simulation and Computing with Arrays of Single Sr Atoms

Are you a eager to push quantum simulation and computing to new levels in a lively, international research group?

Our Strontium Quantum Gases Group is offering a PhD position on our Sr tweezer project. Our group is headed by Prof. Florian Schreck and is part of the Quantum Gases & Quantum Information (QG&QI) cluster at the Institute of Physics (IoP) of the University of Amsterdam (UvA). We exploit ultracold Sr for quantum simulation, quantum sensing, and quantum computing. Our group is part of QuantumDelta NL , which brings quantum technology closer to applications by collaborating with industry, startups and users.

What are you going to do?

Quantum computers and simulators can solve problems that are utterly out of reach for traditional computers. We are doing research with a quantum computer based on arrays of single strontium atoms held in optical tweezers [AVS Quantum Sci. 3, 023501 (2021) ]. Our quantum computer can prepare registers of 24 qubits and let those qubits interact through Rydberg excitations [Phys. Rev. Research 4, 023245 (2022) ]. We are currently outfitting our computer with single- and multi-qubit control and an expansion to hundreds of qubits. A main focus of your PhD will be to expand from qubits to qudits, which are a new frontier for quantum computing, promising access to a much larger Hilbert space for a given number of atoms.

What do you have to offer?

You have:

• a master in experimental AMO physics, ideally ultracold atom or trapped ion physics;
• motivation to work with an ambitious and nice team in a challenging, but rewarding, research field;
• good command of English.

Our offer

A temporary contract for 38 hours per week for the duration of 4 years (the initial contract will be for a period of 18 months and after satisfactory evaluation it will be extended for a total duration of 4 years). The preferred starting date is as soon as possible. This should lead to a dissertation (PhD thesis). We will draft an educational plan that includes attendance of courses and (international) meetings. We also expect you to assist in teaching undergraduates and master students.

The gross monthly salary, based on 38 hours per week and dependent on relevant experience, ranges between € 2,541 to € 3,247 (scale P). This does not include 8% holiday allowance and 8,3% year-end allowance. A favourable tax agreement, the ‘30% ruling’, may apply to non-Dutch applicants. The Collective Labour Agreement of Universities of the Netherlands is applicable.

Besides the salary and a vibrant and challenging environment at Science Park we offer you multiple fringe benefits:

• 232 holiday hours per year (based on fulltime) and extra holidays between Christmas and 1 January;
• multiple courses to follow from our Teaching and Learning Centre;
• a complete educational program for PhD students;
• multiple courses on topics such as leadership for academic staff;
• multiple courses on topics such as time management, handling stress and an online learning platform with 100+ different courses;
• 7 weeks birth leave (partner leave) with 100% salary;
• partly paid parental leave;
• the possibility to set up a workplace at home;
• a pension at ABP for which UvA pays two third part of the contribution;
• the possibility to follow courses to learn Dutch;
• help with housing for a studio or small apartment when you’re moving from abroad.

Are you curious to read more about our extensive package of secondary employment benefits, take a look here .

About us

The University of Amsterdam is the Netherlands' largest university, offering the widest range of academic programmes. At the UvA, 30,000 students, 6,000 staff members and 3,000 PhD candidates study and work in a diverse range of fields, connected by a culture of curiosity.

The Faculty of Science has a student body of around 8,000, as well as 1,800 members of staff working in education, research or support services. Researchers and students at the Faculty of Science are fascinated by every aspect of how the world works, be it elementary particles, the birth of the universe or the functioning of the brain.

The Institute of Physics is situated in new, purpose-built laboratory and teaching space in the building of the Faculty of Science in the Science Park Amsterdam. This location also plays host to numerous national research institutes such as AMOLF (nanophotonics, biomolecular systems, photovoltaics), NIKHEF (Subatomic Physics) and CWI (mathematics and Computer Science), as well as ARCNL (Advanced Research Center for Nanolithography, which combines the leading Dutch tech firm ASML with both Amsterdam universities and AMOLF) and the Quantum Delta NL Ultracold Quantum Sensing Testbed.

Want to know more about our organisation? Read more about working at the University of Amsterdam.

Any questions?

Do you have any questions or do you require additional information? Please contact:

Job application

If you feel the profile fits you, and you are interested in the job, we look forward to receiving your application. Please submit your application online via the button below and by email to [email protected] .

Applications should include the following information (all files besides your cv should be submitted in one single pdf file ):

• CV (including a list of publications);
• a letter of motivation;

• names and email addresses of two references.

Please mention the months (not just years) in your CV when referring to your education and work experience.

We will invite potential candidates for interviews on an ongoing basis.

The UvA is an equal-opportunity employer. We prioritize diversity and are committed to creating an inclusive environment for everyone. We value a spirit of enquiry and perseverance, provide the space to keep asking questions, and promote a culture of curiosity and creativity.

No agencies please.