Internship project: Design of quantum computing chips based on semiconductor spin qubit technology

Internship project: Design of quantum computing chips based on semiconductor spin qubit technology

About this position

TNO’s Quantum Technology department was established in 2018 as a means to strengthen TNO’s core expertise on Quantum. We aim to support our customers and partners, like the QuTech collaboration and other institutes and industrial parties, with the ultimate goal of enabling the second quantum revolution. Our main activities toward quantum computing, quantum internet, and quantum sensing are related to the development and fabrication of quantum devices as well as quantum systems engineering (software and hardware).

What will be your role?

To improve existing spin qubit devices, new device designs and fabrication techniques have to be developed. For instance, gate based dispersive readout technology is currently under development within TNO. These new designs are tested in a stepwise manner: First using test structures to verify the working of key concepts and later using the full device with the final goal to show a proof-of-concept. Before a layered drawing of test, or full, devices can be sent to our cleanroom for nanofabrication, we need some basic understanding and verification of the design. For this we are working on design software that will enable the user to quickly draw patterns (e.g. gate electrodes, bonding pads, or readout resonators), parameterize their design and validate them through various simulations before finalization. The aim for this software is to quicken the design process and generate a better understanding of how an upcoming device will perform.

This student project will be an internship with a duration of at least 3-4 months on the topic of Quantum computing chips based on semiconductor (SiGe) spin qubit technology.

There are several roles available within our projects:

• Develop / improve / extend design tools to improve efficiency of the design process (using python coding);
• Create methods to perform analysis in, and extract data from, various programs such as Ansys HFSS (microwave modelling), COMSOL or QTCAD (electrostatic simulations), or mumax3 (micromagnet modelling) to evaluate the performance of the design;
• Make a preliminary design of a new concept of quantum chip, focusing on the readout resonator.

Together with you, we will decide which subject is most suitable for your internship. Next to your individual assignment you will be part of a multidisciplinary team of experienced engineers.

What we expect from you

You are a Masters student in the last phase of your study in a relevant field (applied physics, computer sciences, quantum information science & technology), preferably with some knowledge of one of the following:

• Programming (Python is preferred);
• Quantum systems (with a focus on spin or superconducting qubits);
• Interpretation of simulation data;
• Nanofabrication and chip design (basic understanding);
• Experience in developing and conducting scientific research.

The most important thing is your personal motivation to work in this rapidly changing field. A successful intern project at TNO relies on a combination of knowledge and interest, both from the candidate and his/her supervisor.

What you'll get in return

You want an internship opportunity on the precursor of your career; an internship gives you an opportunity to take a good look at your prospective future employer. TNO goes a step further. It’s not just looking that interests us; you and your knowledge are essential to our innovation. That’s why we attach a great deal of value to your personal and professional development. You will, of course, be properly supervised during your work placement and be given the scope for you to get the best out of yourself. Furthermore, we provide:

• A highly professional, innovative internship environment, within a team of top experts.
• A suitable internship allowance (615 euro for wo-, hbo- and mbo-students, for a full-time internship).
• Possibility of eight hours of free leave per internship month (for a full-time internship).
• Use of a laptop.
• An allowance for travel expenses in case you don’t receive an OV-card.

TNO as an employer

At TNO, we innovate for a healthier, safer and more sustainable life. And for a strong economy. Since 1932, we have been making knowledge and technology available for the common good. We find each other in wonder and ingenuity. We are driven to push boundaries. There is all the space and support for your talent and ambition. You work with people who will challenge you: who inspire you and want to learn from you. Our state-of-the-art facilities are there to realize your vision. What you do at TNO matters: impact makes the difference. Because with every innovation you contribute to tomorrow’s world.

More information about this vacancy?

• Henk Polinder
  • E-mailadres: henk.polinder@tno.nl