PhD / Postdoc: ATLAS B06 - Integrated photonics for quantum communication and space applications

The DFG-funded Collaborative Research Centre (CRC) 1667 “Advancing Technologies of Very Low-Altitude Satellites” (ATLAS) at the University of Stuttgart (Germany) addresses the fundamental scientific and engineering challenges of rendering Very Low Earth Orbit (VLEO, about 200 km to 450 km altitude) accessible. These orbits are particularly beneficial for satellite services that have become indispensable to our modern knowledge, information, and communication society and enable the operation of satellites without exposing them or contributing to the increasing contamination of traditional orbits with space debris. The research programme encompasses 17 distinct scientific subprojects that are organised into three project areas, focusing on exploring the Gas-Surface Interactions, Enabling Subsystems, and Mission-related Challenges that are respectively critical towards ultimately achieving sustained VLEO operations. Striving towards this common goal, the CRC ATLAS encompasses an especially broad range of research disciplines as well as experimental, numerical, and analytical methods.

The ATLAS Project B06: Integrated Photonics for Quantum Communication and Space Applications is conducted under the leadership of Prof. Dr. rer. nat. Stefanie Barz (link to group webpage) at the Institute for Functional Matter and Quantum Technologies (FMQ) located on the Vaihingen Campus of the University of Stuttgart.

Please refer to https://www.sfb1667.uni-stuttgart.de for further information on the CRC 1667 ATLAS and its individual research projects.

Integrated photonics is key to achieving stable quantum operations and to scaling up photonic quantum technologies.

We are looking for a PhD student or postdoc to join us building integrated photonic circuits for quantum communication and space applications.

You will:

• Design integrated photonic circuits for quantum communication in space settings
• Design and test integrated photonic components with a focus on adverse condictiones
• Develop advanced fibre-chip coupling technology
• Work within the DFG Collaborative Research Center 1667 "Advancing Technologies of Very Low Altitude Satellites" (ATLAS)
• Contribute to project meetings, workshops, and conferences
• Build your foundation for future-oriented jobs in research and photonic industries

• Interest in collaborative and interdisciplinary research
• PhD or M.Sc. in Physics, or related
• Ideally: Experience in experimental quantum optics and (photonic) quantum technologies
• Ideally: Background in integrated photonics and experience in designing and testing photonic circuits
• Programming skills (Python, Mathematica, Matlab, …)
• Fluency in English is required; command of German is appreciated.
• Active support of and participation in the CRC program is expected.

All vacancies for Ph.D. and postdoctoral positions include a full- or part-time position (PhD researcher 75%, postdoctoral researcher 100%). Remuneration is based on the TV-L statutory scale and its associated public sector benefits.

For its doctoral and postdoctoral researchers, the CRC ATLAS offers an ambitious structured interdisciplinary training programme with joint supervision by experienced researchers from different disciplines. The program includes also opportunities for participation in international conferences for the dissemination of the respective findings. Selected candidates will likely find themselves in an exceptionally good starting position for their continued future career in academia or industry.

A complete application includes a letter of application with a short statement of research interests (max. 1 page), a detailed CV, a list of publications, certificates or transcript of records, and contact details of three referees. Applications are accepted until the respective position is filled.