Design and analysis of novel electro-optical and electro-opto-mechanical quantum systems

imec; Vlaams-Brabant; On-site; EUR 8,900 - 13,000; Full time

Benefits offered by this job

Imec allowance

Job summary

Imec seeks a Master intern to contribute to the design and analysis of novel electro-optical and electro-opto-mechanical quantum systems in Leuven. The project focuses on transducers converting microwave photons to infrared photons for quantum networks.

The role involves literature review, simulations and analytical modelling to understand device performance and guide iterations, under PhD supervision and PI guidance.

Qualifications

• Background in Electrotechnics/Electrical Engineering, Nanoscience & Nanotechnology, or Physics.
• Ability to perform literature research, simulations and analytical modelling.
• Strong interest in quantum optics & mechanics with a solution-oriented mindset.
• Independent working style and good communication with supervisor.

Responsibilities

• Design, modelling and analysis of electro-optic and electro-opto-mechanical devices to understand behaviors.
• Analyse data and guide next device iterations.

Skills

Quantum optics interest

Independent working

Problem solving

Education

Master in Electrotechnics/Electrical Engineering, Nanoscience/Nanotechnology, or Physics

Job description

Design and analysis of novel electro-optical and electro-opto-mechanical quantum systems

Master internship - Leuven | More than two weeks ago

Advance the field of quantum computing by contributing to the research of quantum transducers.

Introduction: The future of superconducting qubits depends on the ability to interconnect quantum processors efficiently and robustly. A promising route towards this goal lies in converting microwave photons from superconducting quantum processors into infrared photons which are compatible with low-loss telecommunication fibre networks. Such microwave-to-optical quantum transduction would enable long-distance quantum communication, scalable quantum networks, and seamless interfacing between cryogenic circuits and ambient-temperature measurement equipment. At imec, we leverage high-quality materials grown on traditional silicon wafers to create advanced devices which have the potential to do single-photon conversion with high efficiency. Our aim is to develop a transducer based on electro-optic, and electro-opto-mechanical interactions, to convert single microwave photons into single infrared photons with unity efficiency.

Objective: For these transducer devices the performance of the incorporated electro-optical, or electro-opto-mechanical design is crucial. The project would be about designing, modelling and analysing electro-optic and electro-opto-mechanical devices to gain a better physical understanding of certain behaviours and draw conclusions that guide next device iterations.

Methodology: literature research, simulations & analytical modelling, analysing and interpreting data.

Expectations from the Candidate: Strong interest in quantum optics & mechanics. To bring a solution-oriented mindset with strong problem-solving ability. Independent way of working.

Candidate Profile: A background in quantum engineering, physics or electrical engineering. For full consideration, please ensure your application includes both an updated CV and a transcript of records from your master’s program, showing the courses you have completed and the grades you have acquired so far.

Support and Guidance: Your daily interactions will be supported by a PhD student with hands on experience in the project. Further guidance will be provided by the PI and you are encouraged to reach out outside & within the team of strong PhDs and students to successfully complete the objectives.

Type of internship: Master internship

Duration: 6 to 12 months

Required educational background: Electrotechnics/Electrical Engineering, Nanoscience & Nanotechnology, Physics

University promotor: Christian Haffner

Reference code: 2026-INT-067

Imec allowance will be provided.