Researcher or PhD Student in Quantum Systems (m/f/d) (Physiker/in)

Researcher or PhD Student in Quantum Systems (m/f/d) in Jena

At the Leibniz Institute of Photonics Technology (Leibniz IPHT (https://www.leibniz-ipht.de/en/homepage/) ) we are looking immediately or as soon as possible in the research department Quantum Systems (https://www.leibniz-ipht.de/en/departments/quantum-systems/) for a

Full-time Researcher (100%) or PhD Student (Part-time: 75%), (m/f/d)

The position is to be filled as soon as possible and is initially limited to a period of 3 years.

An extension will be sought if suitable.

The Leibniz-IPHT is a university independent research institute with close connection to the Friedrich-Schiller-University Jena (https://www.uni-jena.de/en) and member of the Leibniz association (https://www.leibniz-gemeinschaft.de/en/) .

Job description

The development of scalable quantum hardware is one of the key challenges facing modern quantum technologies. Superconducting circuits are among the most promising platforms for quantum computers, quantum sensors, and future innovative quantum systems. To advance these systems from individual demonstrators to complex and reliably manufacturable architectures, new approaches are needed in micro- and nanofabrication, circuit development, integration technology, and cryogenic characterization.

For this research, we are seeking a scientist who is passionate about the physics and technology of superconducting quantum systems and who wish to develop new approaches for their fabrication, integration, and characterization.

In the research department Quantum Systems at Leibniz-IPHT, we investigate the physical and technological foundations of future quantum systems. Our focus is on quantum and enabling technologies for quantum computers, quantum sensing, precision measurement and metrology. In doing so, we combine fundamental research with application-oriented system development and utilize novel quantum materials, light-matter interactions, and scalable architectures. One recent focus of our work is the development of technologies for wafer-scale fabrication, 3D integration, and the control of superconducting quantum circuits. The research questions involved range from materials and process development, through circuit design and simulation, to experimental characterization at low temperatures.

The research department is integrated into leading national and international research networks. In our state-of-the-art laboratories, you will collaborate with scientists from various disciplines and backgrounds and contribute to technologies that will enable the next generation of quantum computers and quantum sensors.

Your field of activity includes:

Research and Development:

- Research, development, and evaluation of fabrication processes for superconducting circuits
- Design and simulation of test and quantum circuits
- Research and development of new scalable 3D integration and packaging technologies

Experimental Characterization:

- Planning and execution of cryogenic measurements
- Analysis and interpretation of measurement results
- Demonstration of new circuit concepts

Scientific Communication

- Publication and presentation of research results
- Participation in future project acquisition.

Your qualification:

- A degree (bachelor’s, master’s, or Ph.D.) in physics, materials science, electrical engineering, or a related field.

Desired knowledge and skills:

- Experience in micro- and nanofabrication technologies and related characterization methods,
- In-depth knowledge of design and simulation tools (e.g., Sonnet, COMSOL, KLayout, etc.),
- Relevant experience in the electrical characterization of circuits,
- Interest in interdisciplinary research at the interface of quantum physics, technology, and circuit development,
- Good written and spoken English skills.

We offer:

- An open welcoming culture and an inclusive and interdisciplinary working environment: Located on the Beutenberg campus in Jena, Leibniz-IPHT is home to more than 400 employees from around the world working at the interface of physics, biochemistry, technology, data science and medicine to develop the photonic technologies of tomorrow.
- World-class equipment and facilities: Leibniz-IPHT has a large number of physics, chemistry and biology laboratories at the highest level. It also has state-of-the-art fiber drawing and clean room facilities as well as microfluidics fabrication and big data computing facilities.
- Thorough and comprehensive personal training: Transferring good practices in scientific working and outreach is one of our main focus points. In a respectful and appreciative environment, you will learn everything you need for a career inside and outside of science. Moreover, plenty of workshops and opportunities for scientific exchange are offered by the Leibniz IPHT, as well as the Abbe School of Photonics and the Graduate Academy of the Friedrich-Schiller University Jena.
- A family-friendly working environment with support offers for the compatibility of family and work (e.g. parent-child office, campus kindergarten places, advice on family care situations from trained care guides and much more).
- Flexible working time models as well as 30 days vacation/year, special annual payment and bridge days.
- Jena - City of Science: a young city with a vibrant local cultural agenda!

Salary:

Salary is in accordance with the regulations of the TV-L and your qualifications and experience.

About us:

We are a modern, internationally focused research institute. Work-life balance is one of our central concerns. We value diversity and therefore welcome all applications - regardless of gender, disability, nationality or ethnic and social origin. If women are underrepresented in the area of the advertised position, they will be given preferential consideration in the hiring process if they are equally qualified.

Further information:

If you have any questions, please contact Prof. Dr. Ronny Stolz (https://www.leibniz-ipht.de/en/author/1387/) (phone: +49 3641 206 119, mail: [email protected]) or Dr. Gregor Oelsner (phone: +49 3641 206 135, mail: [email protected]).

Application:

Simply apply via our job portal (https://www.leibniz-ipht.de/en/institute/career/job-portal/) (https://www.leibniz-ipht.de/en/institute/career/job-portal/) with the usual documents (CV, certificates, reference addresses) until August 15, 2026.

Leibniz-Institute of Photonic Technology Jena e. V.

Human Resources

Albert-Einstein-Straße 9, 07745 Jena

Reference Number: 1418