QUROPE Quantum Information Processing and Communication in Europe

Introduction:

DTU Physics is seeking a postdoc for 2 years to work on experiments exploring the interface between quantum optomechanics and non-classical states of light.

The position and the project will be part of a newly granted Center of Excellence, "Center for Macroscopic Quantum States," which has as the overall vision to advance our understanding of macroscopic quantum effects and to exploit these macroscopic effects for quantum information processing. One of the objectives is to control mechanical oscillators using non-classical light and eventually drive the oscillator itself into exotic quantum states [1,2,3]. Towards this goal, our current experiments on generation and application of non-classical lights should be extended and should be interfaced with low-temperature optomechanical setups currently under development.

While the Center of Excellence is completely new, we have in the section on Quantum Physics and Information Technology (QPIT) a long history of 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.

[1] U.L. Andersen et al Nature Physics 11, 713 (2015)

[2] C. Schafermeier et al, Nature Comm. 7, 13628 (2016)

[3] U.B. Hoff et al, Phys. Rev. Lett. 117, 143601 (2016)

Responsibilities and tasks
The successful candidate will be part of a team dedicated to the design and development of a novel optomechanical system controlled by non-classical light.

Some of the tasks involved are

• design and construction of a cryogenic opto-mechanical setup with optical access for the investigation of an opto-mechanical system in the quantum regime,
• generation and characterization of non-classical light,
• mechanical and electronic development in close collaboration with our machine shop and electronic engineers,
• numerical simulation and data analysis,

• programming of experimental control software in e.g. Python,

Other content of the position

• a limited amount of mentoring of PhD and master students will also be expected.
•  

Qualifications
Candidates should have a PhD degree in physics or equivalent.

Further qualifications

The candidate should have a PhD or equivalent degree in physics or engineering. He or she should be motivated and dedicated to do research of high standards and be able to work closely with other team members. We highly value scientific curiosity and creativity. A strong background in experimental quantum optics is required, including expertise in some of the following areas:

• designing and constructing cryogenic setups with optical acces,
• non-classical light generation,
• mechanical oscillator design,
• optical phase stabilization,
• fiber optics,
• Python programming.

We offer

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 highly international research group of students and staff (currently about 30 people) 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.

We offer an interesting and challenging job in an international environment focusing on education, research, scientific advice 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.

Workplace and period of employment

• the period of employment is 2 years (with the possibility of an extension).

Further information

The project is funded by the Villum Foundation and the Danish National Research Foundation. For further information, contact Prof. Ulrik Lund Andersen, at ulrik [dot] andersen [at] fysik [dot] dtu [dot] 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 at DTU's homepage no later than August 7th 2017. Apply online at www.career.dtu.dk.  

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 (MSc/PhD - official translations 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.