Research engineer in Atomic Physics - Hiring in process/Finished, not possible to apply

Background to the position The position is linked to the Quantum Information Group at the Division of Atomic Physics. The group works on the development of hardware for quantum computing and quantum memories and on developing materials where the speed of light can be slowed by 3-5 orders of magnitude for applications in e.g. laser frequency stabilization and medical imaging and treatment.

The group has two fully equipped optical labs including two continuous wave dye lasers, two continuous wave Ti:Sa lasers, diode lasers, cavities and control systems for sub kHz frequency stabilization, a closed cycle, an immersion and a flow cryostat and extensive homemade software for experimental control.

Description of the research group activities The group has a strong activity in quantum information and quantum optics based on light-matter interactions in inorganic crystals doped with rare earth ions. These materials have unique properties as solid state quantum materials due to their exceptionally narrow optical line widths, which also translates to an ability to remain in quantum superposition states over extended periods of time. Rare-earth–ion-doped crystals are also, together with trapped ions and superconducting qubits, one of three quantum computing schemes supported in the first round of the European Union Flagship on Quantum Technology. The group has been a pioneer in introducing quantum information schemes to rare-earth-ion-doped crystals, a field in which many groups are active today. We have pioneered sophisticated structuring of the inhomogeneous absorption profiles of rare earth-ion doped crystals using optical pumping methods. Recently, this structuring has been used to control the speed of light in the crystals, with some remarkable consequences. Our main projects are briefly described below.

Experimental quantum information in rare-earth-ion doped Crystals There are many reasons for the rapid growth of using rare-earth ions in quantum technology, including: the combination of long coherence times for both spin and electronic states, being a solid-state medium, single ions as qubits that together with full optical interactions can lead to very high qubit densities, and good potential for converting between matter and photonic media. We are currently focusing on interactions with single ions using different species of ions for different purposes, enhancements using micro-cavities, and high fidelity operations.

Metrology using slow light effects in rare-earth-ion-doped Crystals The frequency stability of lasers locked to reference cavities is presently limited by thermal Brownian motion of the atoms constituting the reference cavities, which causes the length of the cavity to fluctuate with time. This leads to minimum average cavity length variation of about ~0.1 proton radius. We have recently demonstrated that slow light effects in Fabry-Pérot cavities made of rare-earth-ion-doped crystal materials can decrease cavity mode spacing and line widths by 3-5 orders of magnitude. We have shown that in such cavities the effect of length fluctuations on the cavity resonance frequency is decreased by 3-5 orders of magnitude compared to a conventional vacuum cavity of the same length. This project aims to explore the possibility to use this type of cavities for improving laser frequency stabilization beyond the current limits.

Rare-earth spectral filters that can enable tissue imaging and treatment beyond what is possible today This project lies at the border between advanced atomic physics and applied medical imaging. By using our techniques to spectrally program the rare-earth materials, we can create filters that are very narrow in frequency, using a combination of absorption and slow light effects to separate frequency shifted photons from a strong carrier. Such filters could be used to enable non-invasive optical imaging of deep lying organs, such as the brain or the heart. In this project, we will strive to develop filters and laser technology that can then be tested together with researchers in medicine and biomedical engineering.

Work duties The holder of this position will manage, handle and develop our labs and lab equipment enabling the group to effectively carry out state of the art research work in optics and light-matter interaction. A major task is to become the “long time memory” for the research group when it comes to handling and using equipment and techniques. He/she will instruct and support our MSc & PhD students and postdocs in the use of all types of laboratory equipment and the commercial and homemade software programs that are used. He/she will also provide expertise in the experimental techniques we are using and when appropriate engage directly in the experimental work that is carried out. He/she will also carry the main responsibility for implementing new developments and upgrades of our systems.

Qualification requirements The Lund Quantum Information Group engages in coherent light-matter interactions and quantum information in crystals doped with rare earth ions at cryogenic temperatures using sub-kHz line width laser radiation.

• The recipient of the research engineer position should have an experimental PhD in a relevant research area, including e.g. coherent light-matter interactions also, laser atom cooling, trapped ions or high precision optical metrology.
• In addition, we require the recipient, after their PhD degree, to have several years of relevant experimental optical research experience at international labs of high quality in one or several relevant research areas, for example the ones mentioned above.
• We will place great emphasis on personal suitability.
• Very good ability to communicate fluently in English.

Assessment criteria and other qualifications Strong consideration will also be given to initiative and good collaborative skills. Programming skills and experience is furthermore important. How the applicant’s experience and skills can complement and strengthen our ongoing research activities within the Quantum Information Group, and how the applicant might stand to contribute to its future development, will also be of significant importance.

Terms of employment Permanent position, 100 %. Probational employment might be applied.

Instructions on how to apply Applications shall be written in English. Applications should include a cover letter stating the reasons why you are interested in the position and in what way the employment corresponds to your qualifications. The application should also contain a CV, degree certificates or equivalent, three letters of reference (including contact information to the reference persons) and other documents you wish to be considered.