Two PhD fellowships in Quantum Physics

PhD Projects in Theoretical Quantum Optics and Quantum Information

Niels Bohr Institute
Faculty of SCIENCE
University of Copenhagen



The Niels Bohr Institute invites applicants for two PhD fellowships in Theoretical Quantum Optics and Quantum Information . The projects are part of the research center Hybrid Quantum Networks, which is financed by the Danish National Research Foundation.
Start date is (expected to be) July 1, 2025 or as soon as possible thereafter.

The projects
The projects deal with hybrid quantum systems combining optical waveguides and cavities with atoms, quantum dots and optomechanical components. In one project, we shall develop theory proposals and analyses of quantum networs of coupled few-level systems interacting with continuous wave beams and pulses of radiation. In the other project we shall deal with probed quantum systems, in particular the use of mechanical oscillator modes for sensing, control and mediation of quantum states between different systems. Collaboration and sharing of methods and ideas between the students on the two projects is expected.

Who are we looking for?
We are looking for candidates within the field(s) of quantum optics and quantum information science. Applicants may have a background from theoretical or experimental atomic or solid state physics, quantum optics, nanophotonics, optomechanics. The work will derive and employ deterministic and stochastic master equations, Gaussian approximations and cumulant expansion methods. These methods are fairly straightforward to learn, and we are first and foremost looking for creative and innovative candidates with general competences in modelling and programming and a genuine interest and sense for experimental feasibility and relevance.


Our group and research- and what do we offer?
The group is a part of the Hybrid Quantum Networks Centre of Excellence, financed by the Danish National Research Foundation, and located at the Niels Bohr Institute, Faculty of SCIENCE, University of Copenhagen.
The group is led by Professor Klaus Mølmer, and we enjoy close collaboration with the theory group led by Professor Anders Sørensen and with experimental groups working on optomchanics, single photon emitters, nanophotonics and quantum sensors. A specific focus of both theory groups is discussions and engagement of students and postdocs in projects with experimentalists in and outside of the Niels Bohr Institute.
The theory groups have weekly joint meetings, and we have monthly lunch meetings and annual retreats with the whole Hybrid Quantum Networks Centre. From sping 2025, we will be located in a new building with laboratories, offices and meeting rooms, and the more than 50 staff, students and postdocs will enjoy daily interactions as they hang out and bump into each other for tea and coffee in our lounge facilities.

Principal supervisor is Professor Klaus Mølmer, Niels Bohr Institute, [email protected], +45 2338 2321.



The PhD programme consists of A three year full-time study within the framework of the regular PhD programme (5+3 scheme).
To be eligible for the PhD programme, you must have completed a physics degree programme, equivalent to a Danish master’s degree (180 ECTS/3 FTE BSc + 120 ECTS/2 FTE MSc) related to the subject area of the project. For information of eligibility of completed programmes, see General assessments for specific countries and Assessment database.


Terms of employment
Employment as PhD fellow is full time and for maximum 3 years.
Employment is conditional upon your successful enrolment as a PhD student at the PhD School at the Faculty of SCIENCE, University of Copenhagen. This requires submission and acceptance of an application for the specific project formulated by the applicant.
Terms of appointment and payment accord to the agreement between the Danish Ministry of Taxation and The Danish Confederation of Professional Associations on Academics in the State. The position is covered by the Protocol on Job Structure.


Responsibilities and tasks in the PhD programme

• Carry through an independent research project under supervision

• Complete PhD courses corresponding to approx. 30 ECTS / ½ FTE
• Participate in active research environments, including a stay at another research institution, preferably abroad
• Teaching and knowledge dissemination activities
• Write scientific papers aimed at high-impact journals
• Write and defend a PhD thesis on the basis of your project

We are looking for the following qualifications:

• Professional qualifications relevant to the PhD project
• Relevant publications
• Relevant work experience
• Other relevant professional activities
• Curious mind-set and a wish to make theory of use for experiments and applications
• Good language skills

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Application and Assessment Procedure

Your application including all attachments must be in English and submitted electronically by clicking APPLY NOW below.

Please include:

1. Motivated letter of application (max. one page)
2. State which of the two PhD projects, coupled systems or optomechanics, you are applying for (or both).
3. Curriculum vitae including information about your education, experience, language skills and other skills relevant for the position
4. Original diplomas for Master of Science and transcript of records in the original language, including an authorized English translation if issued in another language than English or Danish. If not completed, a certified/signed copy of a recent transcript of records or a written statement from the institution or supervisor is accepted.
5. Publication list (if possible)
6. Reference letters (if available)
   

Application deadline:
The deadline for applications is 28 February 2025, 23:59 GMT +1.
We reserve the right not to consider material received after the deadline, and not to consider applications that do not live up to the abovementioned requirements.

The further process
After deadline, a number of applicants will be selected for academic assessment by an unbiased expert assessor. You are notified, whether you will be passed for assessment.
The assessor will assess the qualifications and experience of the shortlisted applicants with respect to the above mentioned research area, techniques, skills and other requirements. The assessor will conclude whether each applicant is qualified and, if so, for which of the two models. The assessed applicants will have the opportunity to comment on their assessment. You can read about the recruitment process at http://employment.ku.dk/faculty/recruitment-process/.

Interviews with selected candidates are expected to be held in week 11, 10-14 March, 2025.


Questions
For specific information about the PhD fellowship, please contact the principal supervisor.

General information about PhD study at the Faculty of SCIENCE is available at the PhD School’s website: https://www.science.ku.dk/phd/.

The University of Copenhagen wishes to reflect the surrounding community and invites all regardless of personal background to apply for the position.