Doctoral student in coupling cold atoms to photonic integrated circuits

Karlstad University; Göteborgs kommun; On-site; SEK 350,875 - 420,280; Full time

Benefits offered by this job

Employee benefits

Dynamic working environment

Swedish language courses

Job summary

Karlstad University is offering a Doctoral student position in coupling cold atoms to photonic integrated circuits at the Hybrid Quantum Systems Laboratory. The position focuses on advancing quantum metrology and involves building experimental platforms.

Applicants must have a Master’s degree in a relevant field and strong communication skills in English. The role is fully funded with a monthly salary of 34,550 SEK and offers a vibrant research environment in Gothenburg.

Qualifications

• To qualify as a Doctoral student, you must have a Master’s degree or equivalent.
• Strong written and verbal communication skills in English.

Responsibilities

• Conduct research in quantum metrology, simulation, and computing.
• Build experimental platforms to trap cold Strontium atoms.
• Participate in a research group with expertise in atomic physics and photonics.

Skills

Strong written and verbal communication in English

Education

Master’s degree in Physics, Applied Physics, Nanotechnology, Photonics or Electrical Engineering

Job description

Doctoral student in coupling cold atoms to photonic integrated circuits

Our goal is to focus on competence, knowledge and collaboration in order to play an important, demonstrable role in social development.

Join us at the Hybrid Quantum Systems Laboratory to couple atoms to photonic integrated circuits. If you are interested in advancing quantum metrology, simulation and computing, this is for you!

About us

The Hybrid Quantum Systems Laboratory is a new laboratory at Chalmers in the division for Quantum Technology at the department for Microtechnology and Nanoscience (MC2). We offer a newly renovated lab space and a state‑of‑the‑art nanofabrication facility.

At the Quantum Technology Laboratory we explore how quantum physics can unlock radically new ways of processing information – far beyond the limits of classical systems. Our research spans quantum computing, sensing, transduction, thermodynamics, and foundations, all aimed at harnessing the powerful behavior of light and matter at the quantum level.

The Department of Microtechnology and Nanoscience advances the frontiers in quantum technology, nanoscience, photonics and future electronic systems – for technical and societal development. Our cross‑disciplinary approach gives interesting collaborations in academia, industry and society, and is a driving force for innovations, results and breakthroughs. We offer a vibrant, international research environment and direct access to world‑class nanofabrication facilities.

About the research project

Alkaline earth atoms are used in the best atomic sensors and show promise as a platform for quantum computing and simulation. Meanwhile, nanophotonics enable exquisite control over the propagation of light, giving unique possibilities for coupling cold atoms to light. In this project, you will build a new experimental platform to trap thousands of cold Strontium atoms near nanophotonic waveguides. You will then use this platform to explore protocols for quantum metrology, simulation and computing. As a Doctoral student you will be part of a research group with expertise in atomic physics, photonics and nanofabrication and the project will involve a broad range of techniques, including laser cooling and trapping, spectroscopy, ultra‑high‑vacuum technology, photonic design, and nanofabrication.

Who we are looking for

Qualifications

• To qualify as a Doctoral student, you must have a Master’s degree (120 credits) in Physics, Applied Physics, Nanotechnology, Photonics or Electrical Engineering or other relevant subject. For students with an education earned outside of Sweden, a 4‑year Bachelor’s degree is accepted.
• Strong written and verbal communication skills in English.

Desired experience

• Experience in experimental atomic physics, optics, photonics or nanofabrication.
• Ability to develop your own scientific concepts and communicate the results of your research verbally and in writing.
• Experience designing, developing and building state‑of‑the‑art experimental apparatus.
• Teaching on undergraduate level or performing other duties corresponding to 20 percent of working hours may be required.

Contract terms

• The Doctoral student positions are fully funded from start.
• The position is a fixed‑term appointment of four years, with the possibility to teach up to 20 percent, which extends the position up to five years.
• A starting salary of 34,550 SEK per month (valid from 25 May 2025).
• Doctoral studies require physical presence throughout the entire study period. A valid residence permit must be presented by the study start date; otherwise the admission may be withdrawn.

What we offer

• As a Doctoral student at Chalmers, you are an employee and enjoy all employee benefits.
• A dynamic and inspiring working environment in the coastal city of Gothenburg.
• Swedish courses to help you settle in if Swedish is not your native language.

We welcome your application no later than 15 August 2026.

Chalmers University of Technology in Gothenburg conducts research and education in technology and natural sciences at a high international level. The university has 3100 employees and 10,000 students, and offers education in engineering, science, shipping and architecture.