Postdoc positions in giant atoms for quantum simulation or quantum communication

These postdoc positions are part of the 5-year project "Quantum simulation and communication with giant atoms" that began in 2023, funded by the Swedish Foundation for Strategic Research, with the aim of developing useful applications based on an exciting new paradigm in quantum optics: giant atoms. Giant atoms couple to light at multiple points, which gives rise to interference effects. The succesful candidates will, in theoretical studies using both analytical and numerical tools, harness these interference effects to either (i) control the interaction between giant atoms, which function as qubits, and their surroundings, to create quantum-simulation protocols for large molecules, or (ii) control emission of light from and absorption of light in the giant atoms functioning as qubits, to enable quantum communication and distributed quantum computing.

Project description
In quantum optics, it is common to assume that atoms can be approximated as point-like compared to the wavelength of the light they interact with. It is only in the past few years that experiments (at Chalmers, MIT, and other places), with artificial atoms built from superconducting circuits, have shown that this assumption can be violated. These artificial atoms can couple to an electromagnetic field at several points, which can be wavelengths apart. The study of giant atoms and the interference effects that arise from their coupling points is still in its infancy, but it is attracting increasing attention. In this project, we aim to go from fundamental research towards useful applications of giant atoms in emerging quantum technology.

The project is carried out in the stimulating research environment of the Wallenberg Centre for Quantum Technology (WACQT), a 12-year, billion-SEK initiative started in 2018 with the purpose of advancing Swedish academia and industry to the forefront of quantum technology, and to build a Swedish quantum computer.

The WACQT team at Chalmers currently has about 80 members (faculty, permanent research staff, postdoctoral researchers, PhD students, and undergraduate students) and is expanding. WACQT is committed to promoting career development, diversity, and gender equality through networking and supporting activities.

Information about the department and the division
Our department (MC2) is host to the state-of-the-art MC2 Nanotechnology Laboratory cleanroom, the largest such facility in Northern Europe, and our measurement lab at QTL is well equipped with cryogenic and microwave electronic equipment. We are in a position to build and operate large-scale quantum processors!

At the Applied Quantum Physics Laboratory (AQPL), we work on theoretical aspects of future high-performance nano-electronic systems. Our research covers a broad spectrum, from fundamental problems to very applied ones. We work in close collaboration with experimental groups such as the Quantum Technology Laboratory (QTL), especially within WACQT. For the research on giant atoms, we also have a long-standing collaboration with the experimental group of Prof. William Oliver at MIT.

Major responsibilities
Your major responsibility as a postdoc is to develop protocols using giant atoms for either (i) quantum simulation of open systems or (ii) quantum communication and distributed quantum computing. This will include both analytical and numerical work, and also communication with experimentalists who can implement the protocols that are developed in this project. You may also help in supervising PhD students and/or master's students working on other uses of giant atoms for quantum technology.

Qualifications
Required qualifications:
*PhD in Physics or neighbouring fields (obtained before employment begins)
*Excellent communication skills in written and spoken English
*Ability to program in high-level languages such as Python or C

Desired qualifications:
*Experience from working on quantum simulation, quantum communication, quantum chemistry, quantum optics, or quantum computing.

We value a collaborative attitude and an interest in working both in teams and independently. Self-motivation, attention to detail, and a problem-solving analytical ability are important personal qualities for this position.

To qualify for the position of postdoc, you must hold a doctoral degree awarded no more than three years prior to the application deadline (according to the current agreement with the Swedish Agency for Government Employers). Exceptions from the 3-year limit can be made for longer periods resulting from parental leave, sick leave or military service*

* The date shown in your doctoral degree certificate is the date we use, as this is the date you have met all requirements for the doctoral degree.

Contract terms
This postdoc position is a full-time temporary employment for two years, with the possibility of extension for another year.

We offer
Chalmers offers a cultivating and inspiring working environment in the coastal city of Gothenburg. 
Read more about working at Chalmers and our benefits for employees.

Chalmers aims to actively improve our gender balance. We work broadly with equality projects, for example the GENIE Initiative on gender equality for excellence. Equality and diversity are substantial foundations in all activities at Chalmers.

Application procedure
The application should be marked with 20240278 and written in English. The application should be sent electronically and be attached as PDF-files, as below. Maximum size for each file is 40 MB. Please note that the system does not support Zip files.

CV: (Please name the document as: CV, Surname, Ref. number) including:
• CV, including complete list of publications
• Previous teaching and pedagogical experiences
• Two references that we can contact

Personal letter: (Please name the document as: Personal letter, Family name, Ref. number)
1-3 pages where you:
• Introduce yourself
• Describe your previous research fields and main research results
• Describe your future goals and future research focus

Other documents:
• Attested copies of completed education, grades, and other certificates.

Use the button at the foot of the page to reach the application form.

Please note: The applicant is responsible for ensuring that the application is complete. Incomplete applications and applications sent by email will not be considered.

Application deadline: 2024-05-31

 
For questions, please contact:
Assoc. Prof. Anton Frisk Kockum, AQP,
anton.frisk.kockum@chalmers.se

*** Chalmers declines to consider all offers of further announcement publishing or other types of support for the recruiting process in connection with this position. *** 

Chalmers University of Technology conducts research and education in engineering sciences, architecture, technology-related mathematical sciences, natural and nautical sciences, working in close collaboration with industry and society. The strategy for scientific excellence focuses on our six Areas of Advance; Energy, Health Engineering, Information and Communication Technology, Materials Science, Production and Transport. The aim is to make an active contribution to a sustainable future using the basic sciences as a foundation and innovation and entrepreneurship as the central driving forces. Chalmers has around 11,000 students and 3,000 employees. New knowledge and improved technology have characterised Chalmers since its foundation in 1829, completely in accordance with the will of William Chalmers and his motto: Avancez!