UHV Process & Automation Engineer

Novo Nordisk Foundation Quantum Computing Programme (NQCP)
University of Copenhagen

Develop advanced crystal growth and automated UHV processes for quantum technologies

The Novo Nordisk Foundation Quantum Computing Programme (NQCP) is establishing state-of-the-art crystal growth and materials platforms supporting future quantum processors. We are seeking an engineer with strong expertise in ultra-high vacuum systems, process engineering and laboratory automation.

The successful candidate will help develop automated growth processes for advanced materials while integrating sophisticated instrumentation into next-generation research facilities.

Your responsibilities

Working closely with scientists and engineers, you will

• Operate and optimize advanced UHV systems
• Develop and improve crystal growth processes
• Implement automation of experimental procedures
• Integrate sensors, controllers and instrumentation
• Develop process monitoring and logging systems
• Support commissioning of new crystal growth equipment
• Optimize process stability, reproducibility and throughput
• Participate in troubleshooting complex experimental systems
• Work with multidisciplinary teams on advanced research infrastructure

Qualifications

We are looking for candidates with experience in several of the following areas:

• Ultra-high vacuum technology
• Crystal growth systems (MBE, epitaxy or related technologies)
• Process engineering
• Laboratory automation
• PLC or industrial control systems
• Instrument control software
• Data acquisition and process monitoring
• Scientific instrumentation
• Semiconductor processing technologies

Experience with one or more of the following is highly desirable:

• Python or LabVIEW  or similar
• EPICS or similar control frameworks
• Motion control systems
• Vacuum instrumentation
• Temperature control systems
• Semiconductor manufacturing
• Thin-film deposition
• Materials characterization

Personal qualifications

You are curious, analytical and enjoy improving complex technical systems. You combine practical engineering skills with a structured approach to process optimization and automation. You enjoy working in an ambitious international research environment where engineering directly enables scientific breakthrough.

Why us?

Both positions offer the opportunity to work in one of Europe's largest quantum technology initiatives, where engineers collaborate closely with internationally recognized scientists to develop the technologies needed for future fault-tolerant quantum computing.

At NQCP you will have access to state-of-the-art laboratories and equipment, excellent professional development opportunities, and an international, collaborative working environment located at the University of Copenhagen.

Joining NQCP now, you will be involved from the very beginning and contribute to the fulfilment of the mission of NQCP. We want to make Denmark a world leader in quantum research, and we hope to attract people from all over the world.  

Life in Denmark is supported with strong social services (free universal healthcare, free/subsidised language courses, paid parental leave, subsidised day care institutions and excellent public schools). Our work culture is very egalitarian and prioritises work life balance. Dual career families are the norm, and workplaces offer flexibility to support everyone in having both an exciting career and good family time. Danish cities are known for having excellent infrastructure, for example through widespread bike path networks. We can also offer a thriving food-scene, excellent museums, and beautiful natural scenery. 

The University wishes our staff to reflect the diversity of society and thus welcomes applications from all qualified candidates regardless of personal background.

Terms of salary and employment

The employment and salary are made in accordance with the Circular on the Collective Agreement concerning academics in the state sector concluded between the Ministry of Finance and AC (the Danish Confederation of Professional Associations). 

Employment will be as an academic employee or special consultant. The salary is based on seniority. Negotiation for salary supplement is possible. The working time are 37 hours per week on average and the working hours are flexible. 

The position is limited in time from 1st of December 2026 to 31st of December 2029.

Appointment will be subject to receipt of a security clearance. 

Your application 

Please send an electronic application with attachment via Jobportalen (Click on the link "Apply for position" at the bottom of the post).  

Please include:

• Curriculum vitae, including a short cover letter. 
• Diplomas (Master and PhD degree or equivalent) 
• Publication list (if relevant) 

The application, in English, must be submitted electronically by clicking APPLY NOW below.

The deadline for applications is 5 October 2026.

After the expiry of the deadline for applications, the authorized recruitment manager selects applicants for assessment on the advice of the Interview Committee.

Further information

For further information please contact Francesco Borsoi (francesco.borsoi@nbi.ku.dk).

The Faculty of Science at the University of Copenhagen – or SCIENCE – is Denmark's largest science research and education institution with 4,000 employees and 9,700 Bachelor and master students in 12 departments. The faculty has an annual budget of DKK 3 billion. 

Learn more about The Faculty of Science at www.science.ku.dk 

You can read about the recruitment process at https://employment.ku.dk/faculty/recruitment-process/.