Postdoc in physics

Focus on Silicon Quantum Photonics: Emitters and Detectors

The Novo Nordisk Foundation Quantum Computing Programme (NQCP) is establishing a talented and diverse international team to create a cutting-edge quantum programme in the heart of Copenhagen, Denmark. At the Niels Bohr Institute, University of Copenhagen, where the formulation of Quantum Mechanics was born 100 years ago, we aim to establish an international quantum computing programme, funded by the Novo Nordisk Foundation, that will drive research and innovations at multiple levels - from developing scalable quantum processor technologies to solutions for the quantum-classical control and readout interface, and all the way to quantum algorithms and applications.  The long-term mission of the programme is to develop fault-tolerant quantum computing hardware and quantum algorithms that solve life-science-relevant chemical and biological problems. NQCP invites applicants for a postdoc position in Photonic Quantum Devices.  

Start date is 1 September 2025 or as soon as possible thereafter. 

The project 

The position is centred on the development of integrated superconducting nanowire single-photon detectors (SNSPDs) embedded in controllable photonic circuits for the fully integrated processing of the emitted photons from silicon quantum emitters. The work will be performed as part of the Photonic Platform team in NQCP, in close collaboration with the Theory & Simulation, Characterisation, and Fabrication engineering teams at NQCP and the Growth team at Quantum Foundry.  

You will be collaborating closely with the other team members of the Photonic Platform team and – like the rest of the team - be generally involved in the projects related to the platform. A number of students will also be dedicated to the SNSPD projects.

Appointment will be subject to a security clearance. 

The Scientific environment 

We offer creative and stimulating working conditions in a dynamic and international research environment hosted by the NNF Quantum Computing Programme (NQCP) at the Niels Bohr Institute, University of Copenhagen. 
Responsibilities:

• Taking a leading role in integrating SNSPDs into our photonic circuits and establishing the electrical control circuit.
• Structuring the efforts on multiple projects, integrate experimental results in the database, and provide feedback to collaborating teams.
• Contributing to the other projects within the Photonics team. The projects span single photon sources and optical components like switches, cavities, etc.
• Supervision of students.
• Procurement, maintenance, and operation of scientific equipment.

We are looking for the following qualifications: 

• PhD in experimental physics, engineering, nanotechnologies, or related.
• Experience with SNSPDs, quantum photonics, electronics, and cryogenic systems.
• Experience with control software and data logging – preferably in python.
• Good communication skills and a structured approach to work.

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)  

1. Curriculum vitae including information about your education, experience, language skills and other skills relevant for the position  

1. Original diplomas PhD 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.  

1. Publication list (if possible) 

1. Reference letters (if available) 

Application deadline:  

The deadline for applications is 7 May 2025, 23:59 GMT +2.  

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 https://employment.ku.dk/faculty/recruitment-process/.  

Terms of salary and employment

Salary, pension and other conditions of employment are set in accordance with the Agreement between the Ministry of Taxation and AC (Danish Confederation of Professional Associations) or other relevant organisation. Currently, the monthly salary starts at 38,700 DKK/approx. 5,100 EUR (April 2025 level). Depending on qualifications, a supplement may be negotiated. The employer will pay an additional 17,1% to your pension fund.

Employment will be as postdoc. The salary is based on seniority. Negotiation for salary supplement is possible. The working hours are 37 hours per week on average. The working hours are flexible.

The position is for 2 years.

Further information

For further information about the position, please contact: Stefano Paesani: stefano.paesani@nbi.ku.dk or Peter Granum: peter.granum@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's 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/.