Postdoc in Experimental Quantum Engineering (EQE) Group / Postdoc in Experimental Quantum Engineering (EQE) Group

Postdoc Position in Experimental Quantum Engineering (EQE) Group

100%, Zurich, fixed-term

The Experimental Quantum Engineering (EQE) group at ETH Zurich and the Paul Scherrer Institute (PSI) invites applications for a highly motivated postdoctoral researcher to work at the interface of quantum optics, quantum information science, and quantum many-body physics.

Led by Prof. Wenchao Xu, the EQE group develops programmable quantum systems based on neutral atoms and Rydberg interactions to advance both fundamental quantum science and next-generation quantum technologies. Our research combines atomic physics, quantum control, and scalable architectures for fault-tolerant quantum computation, hybrid quantum simulation, and quantum-enhanced sensing.

Project Background

Our group addresses key challenges in quantum science by building and exploiting hybrid quantum systems consisting of individually controlled atoms and atomic ensembles.

Current research directions include:

• Demonstrating scalable architectures for fault-tolerant quantum information processing, featuring reconfigurable local control, rapid quantum non-demolition readout, and fast error-syndrome extraction.
• Developing strong atom-light interfaces to enable quantum interconnects and modular quantum systems.
• Investigating non-equilibrium quantum many-body dynamics and quantum information dynamics in programmable atom arrays.

Job Description

We seek a postdoctoral researcher to contribute to a new experimental platform based on dual-type tweezer atom arrays. The project aims to demonstrate the unique advantages for:

• Reconfigurable local quantum control.
• Rapid, non-demolition state detection of both single- and multi-qubit states.
• Novel phenomena in quantum dynamics arising from the interplay with measurement.

These capabilities enable new routes toward fault-tolerant quantum computation and open exciting opportunities for exploring frontier problems in quantum information dynamics.

The successful candidate will:

• Design, build, and operate state-of-the-art neutral-atom experiments.
• Demonstrate novel quantum control and measurement protocols.
• Lead research projects and mentor students.
• Collaborate closely with researchers at ETH Zurich, PSI, and international partners.

More information about the project and the group can be found on our website.

Starting date: flexible in 2026
Employment: full-time

Profile

• PhD in physics or a related field.
• Strong background in experimental AMO physics or quantum optics.
• Experience with cold atoms, optical tweezers, lasers, or quantum control techniques is highly desirable.
• Strong interest in neutral-atom quantum technologies and many-body quantum physics.
• Ability to work both independently and collaboratively.
• Good communication skills in English (German is a plus).

Workplace

We offer:

• A highly creative and collaborative research environment.
• Freedom to develop independent research directions.
• Access to world-class infrastructure at ETH Zurich and PSI.
• Opportunities for interdisciplinary and international collaborations.
• Competitive salary and benefits.

We value diversity and sustainability

In line with our values, ETH Zurich encourages an inclusive culture. We promote equality of opportunity, value diversity, and nurture a working and learning environment in which the rights and dignity of all our staff and students are respected. Visit our Equal Opportunities and Diversity website to find out how we ensure a fair and open environment that allows everyone to grow and flourish. Sustainability is a core value for us - we are consistently working towards a climate-neutral future.

Curious? So are we.

Apply online using the form below. Only applications matching the job profile will be considered.

Further information about our research group can be found on our website. Questions regarding the position should be directed to Prof. Dr. Wenchao Xu at wencxu@phys.ethz.ch.

About ETH Zurich

ETH Zurich is one of the world’s leading universities specializing in science and technology. We are renowned for our excellent education, cutting-edge fundamental research, and direct transfer of new knowledge into society. Over 30,000 people from more than 120 countries find our university to be a place that promotes independent thinking and an environment that inspires excellence. Located in the heart of Europe, yet forging connections all over the world, we work together to develop solutions for the global challenges of today and tomorrow.