Postdoc in Entangled Plasmon Spectroscopy - DTU Physics

DTU; Kongens Lyngby; Remote; DKK 420,000 - 520,000; Full time

Job summary

DTU Physics at DTU invites applications for a 2-year post-doctoral position to develop a theory of spectroscopy with entangled surface plasmons. You will join the Theory of light-matter interaction in quantum materials group at DTU Physics, contributing to interdisciplinary quantum technologies.

The ideal candidate is a theorist with a strong background in quantum optics, nonlinear optics or spectroscopy, proficient in Python or Fortran, and able to communicate effectively in English.

Qualifications

• Experience in theory of light-matter interaction (quantum optics, nonlinear optics, spectroscopy or plasmonics)
• Proficient in scientific programming (Python or Fortran) and comfortable with scientific software
• Strong communication skills in English and ability to present ideas effectively
• Scientific production and research potential at the international level
• Motivated, dedicated and capable of teamwork

Responsibilities

• Develop analytical theory for nonlinear absorption of entangled surface plasmons by molecules on surfaces
• Design families of entangled plasmon states that selectively enhance or suppress different interaction pathways
• Connect the signals to quantum chemistry pictures of charge transfer and intermolecular forces

Skills

Theoretical physics

Python

Fortran

Communication skills

Team collaboration

Education

PhD in Physics/Chemistry/Materials Science

Tools

Scientific software

Job description

We are seeking a motivated Post-Doctoral Researcher for a 2-year position to develop a theory of spectroscopy with entangled surface plasmons.

You will join the "Theory of light-matter interaction in quantum materials" group at DTU Physics. Check out our website here.

About the Project

The project asks whether entangled-state spectroscopy can separately characterize co-occurring physical interactions, such as charge transfer and polarization forces. We will focus on nonlinear spectroscopies and design quantum states of plasmons that control the excitation pathways, selecting the interaction type that contributes to the signal.

As a PostDoc at DTU, your main tasks will be to:

• Develop analytical theory for nonlinear absorption of entangled surface plasmons by molecules on surfaces
• Design families of entangled plasmon states that selectively enhance or suppress different interaction pathways
• Connect the signals to quantum chemistry pictures of charge transfer and intermolecular forces

The ideal candidate is a theorist who enjoys analytical derivations and has a background in quantum optics, nonlinear optics or spectroscopy, with curiosity about bringing quantum light into chemistry. A background in theoretical chemistry is also welcome.

This position provides an exciting opportunity to work at the forefront of interdisciplinary research and make an impact in the future of quantum technologies.

You will lead the research activities of a recently funded Villum Experiment project, working with Associate Professor Simone Latini and Dr. Matteo Castagnola in the 2DPHYS section at the Department of Physics (more on the section on thewebsite here). You will also benefit from the tight connections to the Max Planck Institute for the Structure and Dynamics of Matter in Hamburg, Germany.

What we are looking for

• Possess experience in the theory of light-matter interaction (quantum optics, nonlinear optics, spectroscopy or plasmonics). A background in theoretical chemistry is also welcome.
• Be proficient in scientific programming (Python or Fortran) and comfortable working with scientific software
• Demonstrate strong communication skills (in English) and the ability to present and discuss scientific ideas effectively.
• Scientific production and research potential at the international level
• Be motivated, dedicated, and capable of working collaboratively within a team.

As a formal qualification, you must hold a PhD degree (or equivalent)in Physics,Chemistry, Materials Science or a related field.

We offer DTU is a leading technical university globally recognized for the excellence of its research, education, innovation and scientific advice. We offer a rewarding and challenging job in an international environment. We strive for academic excellence in an environment characterized by collegial respect and academic freedom tempered by responsibility.

Salary and terms of employment

The appointment will be based on the collective agreement with the Danish Confederation ofProfessional Associations. In addition, supplements can be negotiated in accordance with DTU’s salary structure for scientific staff: www.inside.dtu.dk/en/human-resources/during-employment/salary/salary-structures.

The period of employment is 2 years. The position is a full-time position. The expected start date is 1 January 2027 or according to mutual agreement (no later than 1 March 2027).

You can read more about career paths at DTU here.

Further information

Further information may be obtained from Associate Professor Simone Latini, [e-mail], or Dr. Matteo Castagnola, [e-mail].

You can read more about our research on our website here and about DTU Physics at https://physics.dtu.dk/.

If you are applying from abroad, you may find useful information on working in Denmark and at DTU at DTU – Moving to Denmark.

Application procedure

Your complete online application must be submitted no later than 30 October 2026 (23:59 Danish time). Applications must be submitted as one PDF file containing all materials to be given consideration. The file must include:

• A 1-page letter motivating the application (cover letter)
• CV
• Academic Diplomas (MSc/PhD – in English)
• List of publications
• Names and e-mail addresses or telephone numbers of 2 references

Applications received after the deadline will not be considered. Incomplete applications will not be considered.

All interested candidates irrespective of age, gender, disability, race, religion or ethnic background are encouraged to apply. As DTU works with research in critical technology, which is subject to special rules for security and export control, open-source background checks may be conducted on qualified candidates for the position.

DTU Physics, we perform research, teaching, and innovation in experimental and theoretical physics with the overall aim to benefit society. We contribute to the transition to sustainable energy via research and innovation in catalysis, Power-to-X, and nuclear energy solutions. We design and develop new functional materials, contribute to advances in geosciences and life sciences, and we develop and exploit quantum physics and quantum technologies.

DTU – For the benefit of society since 1829

DTU is one of Europe's leading elite technical universities. Through research and education at an international top level, we create solutions to the major societal challenges of our time and help secure Europe's global leadership in sustainable technological development. Since Hans Christian Ørsted founded DTU almost 200 years ago, our mission has remained the same: We develop and create value through the natural and technical sciences for the benefit of society. DTU has 13,800 students, 1,600 PhD students, and 6,500 employees. We work in an international environment and have an inclusive, stimulating, and informal work culture. DTU has campuses in all parts of Denmark and in Greenland and collaborates with the best universities around the world.