Postdoc - scalable, shuttle-based spin-qubit quantum-chips
The JARA-Institute for Quantum Information (PGI-11) conducts theoretical research on many aspects of quantum computing and experimental research on semiconductor qubits. The institute has two parts, located at the sites Forschungszentrum Jülich GmbH and RWTH Aachen University, under the umbrella of the Jülich-Aachen Research Alliance (JARA). In the domain of semiconductor qubits, the development and validation of our advanced architecture based on coherent long range qubit shuttling Nat. Commun. 15, 4977 (2024) is currently one of our main activities. To this end, we pursue a holistic approach addressing material challenges, device simulation, fabrication, systematic characterization, high fidelity operation as well as integration and scaling technologies. Our ultimate vision is a fully integrated semiconductor processor with integrated low-power control circuits to enable a scale up to millions of qubits. https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=0tWaplC4FVs
Your Job
Building on in-house fabricated devices, we have recently demonstrated the ability to shuttle electrons between gate defined quantum dots in Si/SiGe over 20 micron-scale distances using only four different AC-voltages, independent of the distance covered [Nat. Commun. 15, 2296 (2024)].
Theoretical consideration and experimental demostrations indicate good prospects for maintaining spin-coherence of the shuttled electron [Nat. Commun. 15, 1325 (2024)] which makes this approach very promising for scaling up semiconductor spin qubit devices [Nature 653, 360 (2026)]. This position focuses on experimentally demonstrating coherent spin shuttling, shuttling-compatible high-fidelity qubit control and further ingredients for a shuttling-based architecture, using devices from academic or industrial fabrication. Key activities can include:
- Experimental characterization of spin coherence during shuttling
- Shuttling-compatible demonstration of high-fidelity qubit control
- Demonstration of shuttle-based Si/SiGe quantum chips
- Advancement of large-scale shuttling based architecture with 2D-connectivity
- Migration to industrially fabricated devices
Your Profile
- Master and PhD in physics or a related field
- In-depth experience with quantum control experiments on quantum dot qubits
- Good software development skills
- Experience with sub-Kelvin cryogenic techniques
- Strong aptitude for mentoring students
- Good communication skills
- A strong drive to conduct ambitious, cutting edge research towards scalable quantum computing
- A research track record commensurate with our ambition
- Very good command of written and spoken English with extensive vocabulary is required (at least B2 level according to the CEFR), ideally supported by a certificate confirming the language level. Knowledge of the German language is not mandatory but certainly appreciated
Our Benefits for You
We work on highly topical, socially relevant issues and offer you the opportunity to actively shape change! You can expect a wide range of opportunities:
- Meaningful tasks: The position offers a varied and diverse role in an international environment
- Work-life balance: Optimal conditions for balancing work and private life, as well as a family-friendly company policy. The option of flexible working (in terms of location) is generally available after consultation and in line with upcoming tasks and (on-site) appointments
- Vacation: You will receive 30 days of vacation (depending on the chosen working time model) plus additional days off (e.g. between Christmas and New Year's)
- Flexibility: Flexible working time models, including options close to full-time, allow you to tailor your working hours to suit your individual needs
- Knowledge & further training: Your professional development is important to us – we provide targeted, individual support
- Health & well-being: Your health is important to us. You can look forward to a comprehensive occupational health management program with a wide range of offerings - e.g., a beach volleyball court, running groups, yoga classes, and much more. In addition, our company medical service and an experienced social counseling team are available to assist you on site
- Successful start: It is important to us that you quickly settle into the team and are given structured training for your tasks. We also support you from the very beginning and make your start easier with our Welcome Days and Welcome Guide
- Fair remuneration: Depending on your existing qualifications and the tasks assigned to you, you will be classified in pay grade 13-14 of the TVöD-Bund (Collective Agreement for the Public Service). All information on the TVöD-Bund collective agreement can be found on the BMI website. The monthly salaries in euros can be found on page 69 ff. of the PDF download
- Additional benefits: Benefit from attractive additional services such as a company pension scheme with employer contribution. In addition to the basic salary, there is an additional year-end bonus under the collective pay agreement amounting to 75% of a monthly salary, as well as capital-forming benefits
- Fixed-term: You will be initially employed for a fixed term of two years but with the prospect of longer-term employment
- Support for international employees: Our International Advisory Service makes it easier for international employees to get started
- Career Center: You will receive explicit support with regard to your career development opportunities
In addition to exciting tasks and a collegial working environment, we offer you much more: https://go.fzj.de/benefits
We welcome applications from people with diverse backgrounds, e.g. in terms of age, gender, disability, sexual orientation / identity, and social, ethnic and religious origin. A diverse and inclusive working environment with equal opportunities in which everyone can realize their potential is important to us.
The following links provide further information on diversity and equal opportunities: https://go.fzj.de/equality and on specific support options: https://go.fzj.de/womens-job-journey
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