Doctoral student in Physics on Quantum information with micro-cavities - Hiring in process/Finished, not possible to apply

Description of the workplace

The research at the division of Atomic Physics concerns various applications of optics and lasers, for example atomic and molecular physics with ultrashort light pulses, quantum information, high-intensity laser plasma physics and biophotonics. The division is part of a large interdisciplinary research environment within Lund University, Lund Laser Center, LLC. The division is also heavily involved in undergraduate education, especially within LTH's photonics program.

The quantum information group, consisting of 12 people at the division has several different projects related to quantum technology with rare-earth-doped materials. With these materials, one can accurately program the atomic response and spectral profile of the atoms, e.g. for quantum computing, quantum communication, medical diagnostics with slow light, and slow-light frequency stabilization. The group has recently coordinated an international effort to compile a roadmap that describes how these materials can be successfully used for quantum technology.

Work duties

The focus of this project is to realize a small quantum processor node, where the qubits consist of individual ions of rare earth’s (Lanthanides). Such a processor node is a key unit that can be used in several quantum technologies, e.g. both as a quantum computer and for quantum communication. In order to be able to detect individual ions, the project uses an optical micro-cavity to amplify the emission. To ensure good quantum operations, the system is cooled down to about 2 K in a custom designed cryostat.

A particular strength of these materials for quantum technology is that they have very long coherence times and that different ions can be distinguished by light, interacting at slightly different frequencies. This means that many qubits can be uniquely identified even if the processor node is only a few nanometers large. This leads to a high density of qubits and strong capacity to integrate the processor into optical systems.

As a group member, your main work task will be to move the project forward. In practice, it includes, for example, using and continuing to develop an experimental system consisting of a micro-cavity, cryostat and lasers for interaction with the ions. It also includes programming to control the equipment, and understanding theory to analyze the obtained data.

Specific goals in the project are to identify individual ions and make quantum gates on them, optimized for high fidelity, as well as to read out the answers using the amplified light from the cavity. Later, one could also work to scale up the processor by connecting more ions/qubits or exploring new materials with even better properties.

The main duties of doctoral students are to devote themselves to their research studies which includes participating in research projects and third cycle courses. The work duties can also include teaching and other departmental duties (no more than 20%).

Admission requirements

A person meets the general admission requirements for third-cycle courses and study programmes if he or she:

• has been awarded a second-cycle qualification, or
• has satisfied the requirements for courses comprising at least 240 credits of which at least 60 credits were awarded in the second cycle, or
• has acquired substantially equivalent knowledge in some other way in Sweden or abroad.

A person meets the specific admission requirements for third-cycle studies in Physics if he or she has:

• at least 30 second-cycle credits of relevance to the subject, of which at least 15 credits shall comprise a second-cycle degree project, or
• an MSc in engineering physics or an associated field, or a Master’s degree in physics or an associated field.

Finally, the student must be judged to have the potential to complete the programme.

Additional requirements:

• Very good oral and written proficiency in English.

Assessment criteria

Selection for third-cycle studies is based on the student’s potential to profit from such studies. The assessment of potential is made primarily on the basis of academic results from the first and second cycle. Special attention is paid to the following:

1. Knowledge and skills relevant to the thesis project and the subject of study.
2. An assessment of ability to work independently and to formulate and tackle research problems.
3. Written and oral communication skills.
4. Other experience relevant to the third-cycle studies, e.g. professional experience. 

Other assessment criteria

• The undergraduate degree should include courses that are close to the topic of this position, e.g. quantum mechanics, light-matter interaction, quantum information, optics, lasers, etc.
• Ability to work in a laboratory will be essential and experience of experimental work is a merit.
• Experience in programming is a merit.

Consideration will also be given to good collaborative skills, drive and independence, and how the applicant, through his or her experience and skills, is deemed to have the abilities necessary for successfully completing the third cycle programme.

We offer

Lund University is a public authority which means that employees get particular benefits, generous annual leave and an advantageous occupational pension scheme. It is advisable to enter information on what your unit specifically can offer as a workplace.
Read more on the University website about being a Lund University employee Work at Lund University. https://www.lunduniversity.lu.se/about-university/work-lund-university

Terms of employment

Only those admitted to third cycle studies may be appointed to a doctoral studentship. Third cycle studies at LTH consist of full-time studies for 4 years. A doctoral studentship is a fixed-term employment of a maximum of 5 years (including 20% departmental duties). Doctoral studentships are regulated in the Higher Education Ordinance (1993:100), chapter 5, 1-7 §§.

How to apply

Applications shall be written in English and include a cover letter stating the reasons why you are interested in the position and in what way the research project corresponds to your interests and educational background. The application must also contain a CV, degree certificate or equivalent, and other documents you wish to be considered (grade transcripts, copy or abstract of MSc’s thesis, contact information for your references, letters of recommendation, etc.).

The applicant is asked to answer selection questions included in the first step of the application process.

Welcome to submit your application!