PhD Candidate - Quantum Clocks & Lasers

NKT Photonics; Shire Of Denmark; On-site; AUD 71,000 - 107,000; Full time

Job summary

A cutting-edge optics research facility is seeking a PhD researcher to develop prototype laser systems for quantum computing and sensing applications. The role includes integrating custom laser technologies into quantum experiments while working collaboratively across teams. Candidates should have a Master's degree and experience in physics or natural sciences, with skills in data analysis and Python programming. A commitment to quality and attention to detail is essential.

Qualifications

• Hands-on experience with fibers and lasers is preferred.
• Experience in a research environment in physics or natural sciences.
• Familiarity with free space optics and/or fibre optics.

Responsibilities

• Researches and integrates custom laser systems into quantum optics experiments.
• Develops single-frequency fiber lasers for quantum applications.
• Works between two teams: Engineering and NQCP Neutral Atoms group.

Skills

Data analysis

Problem solving

Python programming

Collaboration

Attention to detail

Education

2-year Master's degree or similar pre-PhD qualification

Tools

Microsoft Excel

Oscilloscopes

AWGs

Job description

Organisation/Company NKT Photonics Research Field Physics » Optics Physics » Quantum mechanics Researcher Profile First Stage Researcher (R1) Positions PhD Positions Country Denmark Application Deadline 31 Jan 2026 - 15:23 (Europe/Berlin) Type of Contract Temporary Job Status Full-time Hours Per Week 37 Offer Starting Date 1 Feb 2026 Is the job funded through the EU Research Framework Programme? Horizon Europe - MSCA Reference Number 101227522 Is the Job related to staff position within a Research Infrastructure? No

Offer Description

Join us to Make an Impact

Innovation is in our DNA. We invented supercontinuum lasers and photonic crystal fibers and we constantly reimagine how our products can be used and improved. Our customers use our products in medical and life science research, quantum computing and space exploration.

We seek curious, creative and collaborative people to work in our cutting-edge company. Can you see yourself working in teams and providing solutions for innovators?

If you wish to apply, please contact us with your CV / Résumé. If you have a cover letter, please save this in one document with your CV / Résumé as you are only able to upload one document.

We look forward to hearing from you!

JOB OVERVIEW

Researches, designs and develops prototype laser systems and equipment at NKTP. Researches and integrates a custom laser system into a quantum optics experiment at NBI.

PRIMARY RESPONSIBILITIES

The available role is for a PhD education split between NKT Photonics and NBI at Copenhagen University. The role at NKTP will entail training and engineering experience at NKTP developing single-frequency fiber lasers for use in quantum computing & sensing applications. In the first half of the education, the student will integrate into the Engineering department and develop commercial prototype laser systems as part of an early development team working on new products for our customers in quantum. In the second half of the education, the student will integrate a custom NKTP laser to push the performance of a cold-atoms-based quantum optics experiment with state-of-the-art precision atomic state control at the NQCP Neutral Atoms group lead by Assistant Professor Stefan Alaric Schäffer. The Neutral Atoms group works with quantum simulations and quantum computation using cold strontium and ytterbium atoms.

The laser technology under development in the PhD has been deemed dual-use, strongly restricting dissemination of any work produced at NKTP. The student can expect to produce publishable academic output during their time at NQCP sufficient to be bestowed with a PhD degree. The ideal student will therefore be an industry-focused individual, interested in gaining a unique perspective that combines a detailed understanding of developing metrological quality laser systems with the needs of experimental neutral-atom quantum physics. This is a role for an independent thinker, ready to have clear responsibilities in a team setting, and comfortable with integrating into, and working between, two teams in the Copenhagen area.

KEY INTERACTIONS

NKTP Engineering team and Production, NQCP Neutral Atoms group at NBI

LEADERSHIP EXPECTATIONS

Contributes within the team. Managing own goals, objectives and KPIs. Works within the team with impact across teams. Manages own competencies and job requirements. Responsible for own capabilities and addresses any gaps in capability.

QUALIFICATIONS REQUIRED

2-year Master’s degree or similar pre-PhD qualification. Preferred hands-on experience with fibers and lasers.

SKILLS & KNOWLEDGE REQUIRED

Working collaboratively with Engineering and project teams to achieve high quality solutions. Documentation of assembly and test instructions. Skilled at communicating with other engineering teams and team members. Excellent data analysis and problem solving skills. High level of attention to detail and commitment to quality and reliability. Excellent team player with practical and methodical working practices. Familiarity with Microsoft Excel, Word and PowerPoint. Strong organizational skills and able to work on multiple concurrent activities. Python programming experience is a plus.

EXPERIENCE REQUIRED

Undergraduate degree or equivalent experience in a research environment in physics or natural sciences. Knowledge of the physics of fibre and/or bulk laser technology. Preferred hands-on experience with lasers, free space optics and/or fibre optics, RF Electronics, Python programming, and lab equipment such as oscilloscopes & AWGs. Experience with cold atoms is a plus.

TRAVEL EXPECTATIONS

Up to 10 % annually, potentially globally.

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