Postdoc in Experimental Nanophotonics and Quantum Optics

The research group of Professor Maiken H. Mikkelsen at the Niels Bohr Institute (NBI), University of Copenhagen, invites applications for several Postdoctoral Researcher positions in experimental nanophotonics, nonlinear optics, and quantum optics.

Professor Mikkelsen's group has recently relocated from Duke University to the Niels Bohr Institute and is establishing a vibrant experimental research program dedicated to understanding and controlling light–matter interactions at the nanoscale. By combining nanophotonics with advanced optical spectroscopy and emerging quantum materials, the group aims to uncover new phenomena or behavior arising from enhanced light–matter interactions, optical nonlinearities, and quantum effects.

We seek outstanding, creative, and highly motivated candidates who hold a PhD in physics, chemistry, materials science, or a closely related discipline. Applicants should have a strong background in one or more of the following areas:

1. Nanophotonics
2. Quantum optics and/or single-photon sources
3. Nonlinear optical phenomena in subwavelength structures
4. Ultrafast optics
5. Metamaterials and metasurfaces

The successful candidates will play a leading role in developing the group's experimental research program in nanophotonics and quantum optics. Potential research directions include fundamental studies of light–matter interactions in nanophotonic systems; quantum optics in structured photonic environments; nonlinear optical phenomena at the nanoscale; quantum and collective optical effects in low-dimensional materials; optical spectroscopy of emerging quantum materials; strong light–matter coupling and cavity quantum electrodynamics; and nanophotonic control of spontaneous emission, optical coherence, and quantum emitters.

Depending on expertise and project needs, the successful candidates will carry out experimental research involving advanced optical spectroscopy, ultrafast optical measurements, nanofabrication, device characterization, and data analysis. The positions may also include supervision of students, collaboration with national and international research partners, and other academic duties as required.

Further information on the Department is linked at https://nbi.ku.dk/english/. Inquiries about the position can be made to Professor Maiken H. Mikkelsen maiken.mikkelsen@nbi.ku.dk

The positions are open from November 1st 2026 or as soon as possible thereafter. The position is for 2 years.

The University wishes our staff to reflect the diversity of society and thus welcomes applications from all qualified candidates regardless of personal background.

Terms of employment

The positions are 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 application, in English, must be submitted electronically by clicking APPLY for position below.

When you will be affiliated with the University of Copenhagen or otherwise have access to their research, you may be required to undergo a background screening. The purpose is to protect the security and research integrity of the University of Copenhagen.

Please include

• Curriculum vitae
• Diplomas (Master and PhD degree or equivalent)
• Complete publication list
• Separate reprints of 3 particularly relevant papers

The deadline for applications is 15 September 2026, 23:59 GMT +2.

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

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

Interviews are not yet scheduled.