PhD Positions in Experimental Physics Research on Magnetic Domain Wall Qubits

The Kouwenhoven Lab is seeking PhD researchers to join the team in developing a new type of qubit based on Majorana bound states in Kitaev chains.

This project will develop Majorana qubits in longer Kitaev chains, thereby reaching topological protections. The team foresees chains up to 5 sites in qubit geometry. Research will focus on the different noise sources that can dephase the qubit and how to protect against these disturbances.

The work will explore new gate operations including fusion and braiding, which are special qubit operations unique for Majorana bound states. It will study the effect of improved protection on these operations when making the chains longer. In addition, the project will develop 2-qubit gate operations, creating entanglement between different pairs of Majoranas.

This PhD position will also work in close collaboration with a partner group specialized in 2D materials (Goswami group) and a theory group (Wimmer group) for numerical simulations.

We welcome applications from motivated and passionate experimentalists with a background in low-temperature electrical transport, qubits and a strong interest in both academic research and technological applications.

Requirements

• Master Degree in Physics, Applied Physics, Electrical Engineering, or a closely related field.
• Strong background in quantum science and solid-state physics.
• Independence and self-drive, with the ability to identify interesting questions and interpret measurement outcomes.
• Excellent collaboration and communication skills.

Optional but highly appreciated

• Background in experimental research in spin qubits, magnetic materials, spintronics.

You will join a team at QuTech, located in the heart of the TU Delft campus. Our state-of-the-art research facilities provide a world-class environment for quantum and nanoscale research, offering exceptional opportunities for innovation and collaboration.

QuTech

QuTech is a mission-driven research institute of TU Delft. We are developing scalable prototypes of a quantum computer and a secure quantum internet.

Conditions of employment

Doctoral candidates will be offered a 4-year period of employment in principle, in the form of 2 employment contracts. An initial 1.5 year contract includes an official go/no go progress assessment within 15 months, followed by an additional contract for the remaining 2.5 years assuming everything goes well and performance requirements are met.

As a PhD candidate you will be enrolled in the TU Delft Graduate School. The TU Delft Graduate School provides an inspiring research environment with an excellent team of supervisors, academic staff and a mentor. The Doctoral Education Programme is aimed at developing your transferable, discipline-related and research skills.

TU Delft offers a customisable compensation package, discounts on health insurance, and a monthly work costs contribution. Flexible work schedules can be arranged.