Postdoc Fellowship in Materials Science

The Novo Nordisk Quantum Computing Programme (NQCP) at the Niels Bohr Institute invites applications for a post doc fellowship in quantum physics and materials science, focusing on cutting-edge quantum optics and crystal growth. This prestigious opportunity is based in Copenhagen, at the Niels Bohr Institute, where quantum mechanics was first pioneered over a century ago.

About the Programme
The NQCP, funded by the Novo Nordisk Foundation, aims to develop a fault-tolerant quantum computer platform to address critical challenges in life sciences. This ambitious initiative brings together a diverse team of scientists dedicated to innovating novel fabrication techniques for quantum circuits.

The Project
The Post doc will work on a project that aims to advance quantum materials growth with unprecedented precision, cleanliness, and purity. Leveraging the latest advancements in quantum optics and atomic manipulation, this project pushes crystal growth processes to new heights. Molecular Beam Epitaxy (MBE) and ultra-high vacuum (UHV) technology will be utilized to fabricate quantum circuits under tightly controlled conditions, bringing atoms into play at the single-atom level for an unprecedented approach to crystal growth.

The position offers collaboration with all other teams at NQCP, including the Tools Development Team, Platform Integration Teams, Characterization Team, the Quantum Foundry together with international research partners. The post doc will design UHV apparatuses and control systems for sophisticated crystal growth, incorporating quantum optics and atomic physics techniques to pioneer a new field in physics. Given the sensitive and high-impact nature of this work, please contact us directly for further project details.

Role and Responsibilities

• Engage in collaborative research to refine crystal growth techniques for quantum applications.
• Design and implement UHV apparatus and control systems for crystal growth and quantum circuit fabrication.
• Work closely with interdisciplinary teams to innovate MBE processes.
• Conduct research within a vibrant, international environment aimed at pushing the boundaries of quantum circuit development.

The Ideal Candidate
We seek motivated candidates with a phd degree in Physics, Nano-Science, or Electrical Engineering, specializing in Atomic Physics, Laser Physics, Optics, Quantum Optics, Materials Science, or Crystal Growth. Successful candidates will have:

• Strong experimental and computational skills.
• A passion for experimental setup building and a talent for innovation.
• Ability to work independently and collaboratively in a dynamic research environment.

Scientific Environment
The post doc fellowship offers a stimulating work atmosphere with highly motivated colleagues within the Novo Nordisk Quantum Computing Programme (NQCP), part of the Niels Bohr Institute at the University of Copenhagen. The team at UHV Tech Laboratory is expanding rapidly, working closely with engineers and materials scientists across the NQCP.

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 working time is 37 hours per week on average and the working hours are flexible.

The anticipated start date is 15 April 2025 or as soon as possible thereafter.
The position is limited to a period of two years, with the possibility for extension.

Appointment will be subject to receipt of a security clearance. 

Please include:

• Curriculum vitae
• Diplomas (Master and PhD degree or equivalent)
• Statement about motivation (max. 2 pages) – why are you interested in joining NQCP and what interests you in this position? How does this align with your past experience and future career objectives?
• Complete publication list
• Separate reprints of 3 particularly relevant papers

The deadline for applications is January 15th 2025, 23:59 GMT +1.

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

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

Further information 
Interested candidates are encouraged to contact Professor Jan W. Thomsen (jwt@nbi.ku.dk) or Professor Peter Krogstrup (krogstrup@nbi.ku.dk) for additional information.

The Faculty of Science at the University of Copenhagen – or SCIENCE – is Denmark's largest science research and education institution with 4,000 employees and 9,700 Bachelor and master students in 12 departments. The faculty has an annual budget of DKK 3 billion. 

Learn more about The Faculty of Science at www.science.ku.dk 

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

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.