211-2172/25-2I Postdoc in Experimental Atomic, Molecular and Optical Physics

Postdoc in Experimental Atomic, Molecular and Optical Physics.
NQCP
Faculty of Science
University of Copenhagen

The Novo Nordisk Foundation Quantum Computing Programme (NQCP) is establishing a talented and diverse international team to create a cutting-edge quantum programme in the heart of Copenhagen, Denmark. At the Niels Bohr Institute, University of Copenhagen, where the formulation of Quantum Mechanics was born 100 years ago, we aim to establish an international quantum computing programme, funded by the Novo Nordisk Foundation, that will drive research and innovations at multiple levels - from developing scalable quantum processor technologies to solutions for the quantum-classical control and readout interface, and all the way to quantum algorithms and applications.  The long-term mission of the programme is to develop fault-tolerant quantum computing hardware and quantum algorithms that solve life-science-relevant chemical and biological problems.

The Goal of Atom Fabrication Group:
State-of-the-art quantum processors will need state-of-the-art fabrication tools.

The Atom Fabrication group aims to combine the fields of nanofabrication and atomic physics to explore fabrication methods that leverage the clean, precise and selective nature of lasers at the scale of individual atoms. At this junction of two established fields emerges rich physics that is both fundamentally important but also has huge commercial potential. The group is currently 7 people large, with prospects of doubling in size by the end of 2025.

Several projects are already underway that provide key fabrication advantages to the NQCP pilot lines: semiconductor, superconductor and photonics. We are looking for a driven candidate with a strong background in experimental atomic physics and laser technologies to support these projects. Desirable experience:

• Generation and trapping of charged particles.
• Manipulation of neutral atoms with lasers.
• Laser spectroscopy techniques.
• Continuous and pulsed laser light generation and stabilization.

Among other tasks, the postdoc will be:

• Calculating and simulating practical laser and light-matter interaction experiments.
• Designing, building and operating ultra-high vacuum chambers and laser systems, including the automation of key processes.
• Support the growth of newly established lab facilities and supporting the people working there (Bachelor, Master and PhD students)
• Collaborating closely with the pilot lines of NQCP in developing the building blocks of their quantum processing units

Further information on the department is linked at https://www.science.ku.dk/english/about-the-faculty/organisation/.

Inquiries about the position and more details about the projects, you can contact Jan Westenkær Thomsen (jwt@nbi.ku.dk) and Julian Curry Robinson-Tait (julian.robinson-tait@nbi.ku.dk).

The position is open from 1 July 2025 or as soon as possible thereafter. The position is initially for a period of two 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 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 are 37 hours per week on average and the working hours are flexible.

Appointment will be subject to receipt of a security clearance. 

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

Please include

• Curriculum vitae
• Diplomas (Master and PhD degree or equivalent)
• Research plan – description of current and future research plans
• Complete publication list
• Separate reprints of 3 particularly relevant papers

The deadline for applications is 27 April 2025, 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/