Master Thesis - Cryogenic Analog Demultiplexer for Scalable Electron-Spin Qubit Control
At the Peter Grünberg Institute - Integrated Computing Architectures (PGI-4/ICA), we design integrated circuits that enable scalable control and readout of semiconductor spin qubits at cryogenic temperatures. A key challenge in quantum computing is the efficient control of many qubits under strict constraints on wiring, heat load, noise, and area.
Our group focuses on system-level design and modeling of cryogenic electronics, bridging quantum devices and advanced IC design. We develop and analyze electronic architectures that operate in close interaction with experimental setups, providing the foundation for scalable quantum processors.
Your Job
In this interdisciplinary Master project, you will design, model, and simulate cryogenic control electronics for scalable electron-spin qubit systems. The core challenge is enabling multi-qubit control while minimizing wiring overhead, heat load, and noise at millikelvin temperatures.
The thesis includes developing models, circuit designs, and simulation frameworks that:
- Investigate cryogenic behavior of transistors, switches, and capacitors including relevant noise mechanisms (leakage, charge injection, kT/C, etc.)
- Analyze how noise from cryogenic control electronics couples into gate electrodes and affects control accuracy in Si/SiGe spin-qubit systems
- Develop compact Python-based models of these electronics for integration into quantum-mechanical simulations
- Design and evaluate cryogenic demultiplexer and switch-capacitor topologies through circuit-level simulations including parasitics
The goal is to enable scalable, low-noise control architectures for future multi-qubit systems.
Your Profile
- Bachelor’s degree and currently enrolled in a Master’s program in electrical engineering, physics, or a closely related field
- Basic understanding of device physics, analog/mixed-signal electronics, and circuit design in Cadence Virtuoso
- Motivation to work across disciplines, particularly at the interface of integrated-circuit design and quantum-technology requirements
- Basic knowledge of Python and Git is helpful but not required
- 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
In case you do not fulfill all requirements above, please do not hesitate to apply anyways. We might be able to teach you the missing skills during the induction.
Our Benefits for You
- Cutting-edge research: You will work on challenges at the intersection of IC design and quantum computing, helping to shape the next generation of quantum processors.
- Meaningful Tasks: Your thesis deals with a future-oriented, socially relevant topic with direct practical relevance in an international environment
- Practical relevance: With us, you will gain valuable practical experience alongside your studies and actively participate in interdisciplinary projects
- Scientific environment: You can expect excellent scientific equipment, modern technologies, and qualified support from experienced colleagues. On top, you will benefit from direct mentorship in a small group.
- Flexibility: Flexible working hours make it easier for you to balance work and study
- Campus experience: Our research campus in the countryside creates ideal conditions for collegial exchange and sporting activities right on site. Our cafeteria offers a wide range of options—you can enjoy a relaxing lunch break with a lake view
- Perspective: If you have the appropriate qualifications and funding is available, the institute offers the opportunity to do your PhD after completing your master's thesis
- Fair remuneration: We will pay you a reasonable remuneration for your thesis
Join us and help define the electronic and quantum architectures that will drive the future of scalable quantum computing. You'll be part of a supportive, world-class environment in this rapidly growing field.
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 for women: https://go.fzj.de/womens-job-journey
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