Postdoctoral Researcher in Experimental Quantum Engineering (EQE) Group / Postdoctoral Researcheress 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) is seeking a highly motivated postdoctoral researcher to work at the intersection of quantum optics, quantum information science, and quantum many-body physics.

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

Project Background

Our group tackles key challenges in quantum science by constructing and utilizing hybrid quantum systems made up 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 are looking for a postdoctoral researcher to contribute to a new experimental platform based on dual-type tweezer atom arrays. The project aims to showcase the unique advantages of:

• 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 pave the way for innovative routes toward fault-tolerant quantum computation and present exciting opportunities for delving into cutting-edge problems in quantum information dynamics.

The successful candidate will be responsible for:

• Designing, building, and operating state-of-the-art neutral-atom experiments.
• Demonstrating novel quantum control and measurement protocols.
• Leading research projects and mentoring students.
• Collaborating closely with researchers at ETH Zurich, PSI, and international partners.

For more information about the project and our group, please visit 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).

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

ETH Zurich promotes an inclusive culture, values diversity, and nurtures a working and learning environment where the rights and dignity of all staff and students are respected. Sustainability is a core value for us, and we are committed to advancing toward a climate-neutral future.

Curious? So Are We.

We look forward to receiving your online application using the form below, which should include the following documents:

• CV (with publication list)
• Cover letter
• 2-3 references

Only applications matching the job profile will be considered. For further details about our research group, please visit our website. For inquiries regarding the position, please contact 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. Renowned for excellent education, groundbreaking research, and the direct application of knowledge to societal challenges, we attract a diverse community of over 30,000 individuals from more than 120 countries. Situated in the heart of Europe, we aim to develop solutions for the global challenges of today and tomorrow.