Postdoc in Experimental cold atomic physics

Postdoc in Experimental Cold Atomic Physics

Final date to receive applications: 30 December 2025

The Novo Nordisk Foundation Quantum Computing Programme (NQCP) is establishing a talented and diverse international team to create a cutting‑edge quantum programme in the heart of Copenhagen, Denmark. At the Niels Bohr Institute, University of Copenhagen, where the formulation of Quantum Mechanics was born 100 years ago, we aim to establish an international quantum computing programme, funded by the Novo Nordisk Foundation, that will drive research and innovations at multiple levels – from developing scalable quantum processor technologies to solutions for the quantum‑classical control and readout interface, and all the way to quantum algorithms and applications.

The long‑term mission of the programme is to develop fault‑tolerant quantum computing hardware and quantum algorithms that solve life‑science‑relevant chemical and biological problems.

The NQCP is looking for a highly skilled postdoctoral researcher to join the Neutral Atoms group, which currently consists of a team of seven people led by Ass. Prof. Stefan Alaric Schäffer. We use two‑electron systems such as Strontium and Ytterbium to develop new methods for atomic interaction, state control and readout that guide the Neutral Atoms pilot line at NQCP.

The project
:
The candidate will work on cavity‑enhanced interaction and readout methods in ultracold strontium atoms. Cavity‑based interaction of many atoms provides a platform for superradiantly enhanced or subradiantly suppressed decays that can generate complex interactions across a programmed atomic array. These processes can decohere information storage, enhance readout speeds, or protect atomic states from decay, making the method a useful resource for quantum computation infrastructure.

The group’s newly established laboratory facilities provide a state‑of‑the‑art environment for cold‑atom experiments, with ultra‑stable lasers and frequency‑comb infrastructure.

Required qualifications
:

• Proven experimental experience in ultracold atoms.
• Great technical insight and curiosity.
• Experience designing optical, laser and electronic systems.

Why Us? Joining NQCP now you will be involved from our early stages and contribute to the fulfilment of the mission of NQCP. We want to make Denmark a world leader in quantum research, and we hope to attract people from all over the world. Life in Denmark is supported with strong social services (free universal healthcare, free/subsidised language courses, paid parental leave, subsidised day care institutions and excellent public schools).

Our work culture is very egalitarian and prioritises work‑life balance. Dual‑career families are the norm, and workplaces offer flexibility to support everyone in having both an exciting career and good family time. Danish cities are known for having excellent infrastructure, for example through widespread bike‑path networks. We can also offer a thriving food‑scene, excellent museums and beautiful natural scenery.

Terms of employment
:
The position is covered by the Memorandum on Job Structure for Academic Staff. Terms of appointment and payment accord to the agreement between the Ministry of Finance and The Danish Confederation of Professional Associations on Academics in the State. Negotiation for salary supplement is possible. The working hours are 37 hours per week on average, and the working hours are flexible.

The position is limited for a period of 2 years, with the possibility for extension. Appointment will be subject to receipt of a security clearance.

Application procedure
:
Your online application must be submitted in English. The application must include the following documents (all in PDF format):

• Motivated letter of application (max. one page).
• CV including education, work/research experience, language skills and other skills relevant for the position.
• A certified/signed copy of a) PhD certificate and b) Master of Science certificate. If the PhD is not completed, a written statement from the supervisor will do.
• List of publications.
• Names and contact information for at least one reference person.

After the expiry of the…