Aalto University is a community of bold thinkers where science and art meet technology and business. We are committed to identifying and solving grand societal challenges and building an innovative future. Aalto University has six schools with nearly 11 000 students and nearly 400 professors. Our campus is located in Espoo, Finland.
The Department of Applied Physics (http://physics.aalto.fi) at the School of Science is seeking for
Postdoctoral Researchers in Superconducting Circuits: Quantum Phenomena and Bolometers
The Department of Applied Physics is looking for highly motivated scientists to work on several prestigious projects (see details below).
- Quantum phenomena and devices in the framework of superconducting circuits. This position is funded by the Finnish Centre of Excellence in Quantum Technology (QTF) that is an outstanding working environment with over 100 researchers investigating superconducting and silicon-based quantum devices, and nanostructures. You will be working in the Quantum Computing and Devices (QCD) Labs which is a creative team of amazing talent in its field. The aim is here to carry out top-level science in the field of experimental superconducting quantum technology. The exact focus can be adjusted according to your preferences. New ideas are also welcome!
- Temporal control of dissipation and coherence in quantum circuits. This position is based on the recent ERC Consolidator Grant Quantum Environment Engineering for Steered Systems of Prof. Mikko Möttönen. We have recently introduced a quantum-circuit refrigerator (QCR) and a tunable heat sink, each of which provide a control knob for the dissipation of quantum electric systems. You task is to use these new tools to demonstrate novel qubit control schemes and new physics related to the interplay between dissipation and driving in quantum systems. Recently we reported the observation of the Lamb shift using the QCR in Nature Physics!
- Ulrasensitive bolometers as single-photon microwave detectors. This position is funded by the EU Quantum Technology Flagship in a project aiming for developing quantum-radar technology at microwave frequencies. Such technology calls for single-photon microwave detectors. In the QCD group, we have recently demonstrated the most sensitive bolometer ever built and your goal is to utilize this technology in detecting single microwave photons. As an alternative approach, we also use superconducting qubits to detect single microwave photons. We are also developing superconducting single-photon terahertz detectors in another project and great synergy is expected here.
- Many-qubit superconducting processor for quantum computing and simulations. This position is based on the recent Quantum Computer project that develops scalable techniques for a quantum computer in Finland. This position provides you with many opportunities in interacting with other researchers. You will carry out exciting measurements and make scientific discoveries. Your duties involve circuit design, experiments, analysis, and possibly nanofabrication depending on your preferences. See our recent paper on multichannel readout of superconducting qubits!
The QCD group was established in 2007 and has since produced more than 170 papers on quantum physics including top journals such as Nature, Science, and Nature Physics. The QCD Labs has four dilution refrigerators complemented with the measurement facilities of OtaNano that also hosts an impressive 2600-m2 Micronova cleanroom. We work with the best tools and aim for breakthrough results. Check out a recent video about our activities that was made for APS TV. Join our amazing team to make a career in quantum science and technology!
For further information of the available positions, contact the head of the Quantum Computer working group and the leader of the QCD group Prof. Mikko Möttönen (mikko.mottonen@aalto.fi).
Requirements
- Doctoral degree in condensed matter physics or equivalent on a topic of relevance. (Alternatively, statement that the applicant will have his/her doctoral thesis submitted before the start of the contract).
- Solid publication/study record in superconducting circuits or an exceptionally strong record in a related field
- Good command of English
- Strong drive towards excellence in science and technology at the highest international level
Experience on design, fabrication, measurement, analysis, and theory of superconducting circuits and especially qubits is highly appreciated. In position 3, experience on superconductor proximity effect and radiation detectors is beneficial.
Salary and duration
A typical contract will be initially for two years with possible extension. We seek to fill these positions by the end March 2020 but later starting dates are negotiable. The standard salary level of postdoctoral researchers is between EUR 3550 and EUR 3900 per month depending on the seniority of the candidate. The annual total workload of research and teaching staff at Aalto University is 1624 hours. The positions will be located at the Aalto University Otaniemi Campus.
How to apply
Please apply through the link “Apply for this job” at the bottom of this page. Please indicate in the electronic application form the positions you are applying for (positions 1–4). Application material should include (all documents in English):
- Letter of motivation (max. one page)
- Resume or CV (indicating at least your contact information, working history, list of publications (if any), knowledge areas of physics and engineering, experimental skills, language skills, completed and ongoing university degrees indicating the grade point average or GPA, and honors and awards)
- Two letters of recommendation (or contact details of two possible referees)
Please, send your application as a single PDF file at your earliest convenience by Jan 31st, 2020 (final deadline) through the recruitment system (‘apply for this job’ link at the end of the page). Please note that were start reviewing the applications starting from Jan 7th, 2020 (first deadline) and may hire also before the final deadline of the call. In the case of late applications, contact Prof. Mikko Möttönen directly.
Aalto University reserves the right for justified reasons to leave the position open, to extend the application period and to consider also candidates who have not submitted applications during the application period.
