Postdoctoral Researcher in Radio-frequency Circuit Design / Postdoctoral Researcheress in Radio-frequency Circuit Design

Postdoctoral Researcher in Radio-Frequency Circuit Design

100%, Zurich, Fixed-Term

The Optical Nanomaterial Group in the Physics Department at ETH Zurich is seeking a highly motivated and talented Postdoctoral Researcher.

Project Background

Quantum technologies promise to revolutionize multiple branches of science by solving problems that cannot be addressed by classical systems. While efficient and large-scale quantum computers are still far from commercialization, quantum communication technologies are already present in the market. The use of quantum states to share ultra-secure information represents the only proven approach to achieving genuine communication privacy. However, unconditional security necessitates the use of entanglement to establish non-classical correlations between communicating nodes, paving the way for robust quantum networks and a future quantum internet.

Commercial solutions often avoid entanglement-based methods due to technical challenges, which limits the impact such technologies can have. Our project aims to further develop photonic integrated circuits for quantum communication, which have already been demonstrated by our group, to address these performance limitations and realize integrated quantum transmitters and receivers of time-bin entangled photonic qubits. The lithium niobate on insulator (LNOI) platform offers a distinct advantage over other integrated optics platforms due to its high second-order nonlinearity, facilitating efficient entangled qubit generation and high-speed signal modulation.

The project aspires to develop quantum communication units on the LNOI platform, encompassing elements such as qubit generation, transmission, measurement, and drivers as prototypes of entanglement-based high-speed photonic integrated circuits for quantum communication and networking. This includes the design of high-speed electronics to drive the circuits and to read and process data. The position centers around the design and testing of custom radio-frequency electronic circuits based on field-programmable gate arrays (FPGA, up to 20 GHz) to drive high-speed electro-optic modulators, achieve quasi-static thermo-optic qubit phase tuning, and process transmitted quantum information in real time.

Job Description

We are in search of a postdoctoral researcher or scientific assistant with proven experience in FPGA programming and the design and testing of high-speed electronic circuits. Experience in quantum information processing and quantum communication algorithms, as well as fiber optics instrumentation, is a significant advantage.

Profile

The ideal candidate should be creative and highly motivated, holding a PhD in physics, quantum engineering, electrical engineering, photonics, or related fields. Alternatively, a Master's degree along with over three years of hands-on experience will also be considered. The candidate must thrive in an interdisciplinary environment at the intersection of quantum information science and integrated photonics and should exhibit a keen interest in applied research with a strong focus on transforming ideas into commercially viable products.

Workplace

This position will be based at the innovative and dynamic ETH Zurich, where you will work alongside leading experts and contribute to impactful research.

We Offer

• Your job will have a meaningful impact: Become part of ETH Zurich, which not only supports your professional development but also actively contributes to positive societal change.
• We are committed to building a sustainable and climate-neutral university.
• Expect numerous benefits, including public transport season tickets, car sharing options, a wide range of sports offered by ASVZ, childcare services, and attractive pension benefits.

We Value Diversity

In alignment with our values, ETH Zurich encourages an inclusive culture. We promote equality of opportunity, value diversity, and cultivate a working and learning environment where the rights and dignity of all staff and students are respected. Visit our Equal Opportunities and Diversity website for more information on how we maintain a fair and open environment that allows everyone to grow and flourish.

Curious? So Are We!

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

About ETH Zurich

ETH Zurich is one of the world's leading universities specializing in science and technology. Renowned for its excellent education, cutting-edge fundamental research, and the direct transfer of new knowledge into society, over 30,000 individuals from more than 120 countries find our institution to foster independent thinking and inspire excellence. Situated in the heart of Europe while forging connections across the globe, we collaborate to develop solutions for the global challenges of today and tomorrow.