Research associate project lead quantum technologies

Quantum Flagship; Mainz; On-site; EUR 65,000 - 78,000; Full time

Job summary

A leading university in Germany seeks a Research Associate Project Lead in Quantum Technologies. This position involves developing laser systems for the ISS and managing complex research projects in experimental quantum physics. Candidates need an above-average doctorate and in-depth knowledge in related fields such as optics and laser physics. The role requires mobility for on-site collaboration and offers a fixed-term position until 29.02.2028 with potential for extension. Language proficiency in German is an advantage.

Qualifications

• In-depth knowledge in experimental quantum physics and associated research topics.
• Knowledge of managing third-party funded projects from funding institutions.
• Very good scientific productivity as evidenced by publications.
• Experience in acquiring and managing third-party funded projects from national and international funding bodies
• Very good scientific productivity (publications in refereed journals)
• Mobility and willingness to work on site with cooperation partners
• Experience in budget management or personnel management desirable
• Experience supervising students/doctoral candidates advantageous
• Good German language skills are an advantage

Responsibilities

• Develop laser systems for the ISS in collaboration with various partners.
• Prepare project proposals for attracting further funding.
• Supervise doctoral students and project staff.

Skills

Optics

Laser physics

Atomic physics

Atom interferometry

Bose-Einstein condensation

Education

Above-average doctorate in physics

Completed scientific university degree in physics

Job description

Research associate project lead quantum technologies

Johannes Gutenberg University Mainz (JGU) is one of the largest universities in Germany. Thanks to its location in the Rhine-Main science region, the university can unfold to its full potential and showcase its innovative power and dynamism. Its status as a comprehensive university allows for multidisciplinary learning and teaching and has great potential for internationally renowned, interdisciplinary research. Almost all of its institutes are located on a single campus close to the Mainz city center – creating a lively academic culture for researchers, teaching staff, and students from every continent.

In our research group “Experimental Quantum Optics and Quantum Information”, we investigate various scientific questions in the field of quantum physics using cold, neutral atoms. This includes experiments on long-range magnetic interactions, experiments to test Einstein's equivalence principle, and other applications of quantum sensor technology.

In the BECCAL project, where the position is based, we are collaborating with various German universities and research institutions, as well as NASA, to develop an experiment for generating and investigating quantum gases on board the International Space Station.

• Development of laser systems for the International Space Station (ISS) as part of the BECCAL project
• Development of key technologies for various applications of quantum technologies for field use

Specifically:

• Preparation of project proposals to attract further third-party funding, if necessary with external project partners and in coordination with funding organizations
• Planning, preparation, implementation, and supervision of those challenging research projects (both scientifically and administratively)
• Supervision of doctoral students and other project staff

Your profile:

In addition to the general requirements according to public services law, applicants must meet the recruitment requirements stipulated in § 57 of the Hochschulgesetz of Rhineland-Palatinate.

• Above-average doctorate in physics
• Completed scientific university degree in physics or related field
• In-depth knowledge in the field of experimental quantum physics, in particular the following research topics:
  • Optics
  • Laser physics
  • Atomic physics
  • Atom interferometry
  • Bose-Einstein condensation
• Knowledge of the principles and procedures for the successful acquisition and management of third-party funded projects from national and international funding institutions
• Very good scientific productivity (demonstrated by publications in refereed journals)
• Mobility and willingness to work on site with cooperation partners
• Experience in budget management or personnel management desirable
• Experience in supervising students/doctoral candidates an advantage
• Good German language skills are an advantage

The position is paid according to EG 14 TV-Land is to be filled as soon as possible. The position is temporary for a fixed term until 29.02.2028. An extension of the position is intended.

As the work involves collaboration with NASA and involves working on export-controlled hardware, only applicants with nationalities from country group A5 according to Annex 1 of the license exceptions of the Bureau of Industry and Security of the U.S. Department of Commerce can be considered.

JGU is diverse and welcomes qualified applications from people with varied backgrounds.

We aim to increase the number of women in the field of research and teaching and therefore encourage female researchers to apply.

People with severe disabilities and people with disabilities who are treated equally in accordance with Section 2 (3) SGB IX will be given preferential consideration if they are suitable.