PhD position in AMO Physics - QuEST for APV

This PhD project is about quantum enhanced sensing in trapped ions for atomic parity violation, a cornerstone of the electroweak interaction. Using quantum technology, this project will push the frontiers of fundamental physics tests.

Job Description

We are searching for a motivated and interested PhD-student, with a degree in physics or related topics or with experience in quantum technology, spectroscopy, and/or laser physics, who wishes to work with us in the international and stimulating environment of the joint Quantum Metrology group at LaserLaB Amsterdam.

This project aims to develop a new experimental apparatus that enables quantum enhanced sensing in trapped barium ions for tests of electroweak theory. At the basis of the project lies a unique high-precision radio frequency ion trap in which single Ba+ ions will be confined and cooled to their motional ground state. With optical standing waves, the individual ions will be addressed to drive an extremely weak parity forbidden transition. In order to detect the signals from driving such a weak transition, quantum entangled states will be used that reject external perturbations. Based on measurements of atomic parity violation in Ba+, its electroweak charge will be extracted to test the electroweak theory at low energies with unprecedented precision and search for possible signals that may hint towards new physics.

During the PhD, you will engage with various aspects of experimental physics, including ultrahigh vacuum, CAD design, optics and lasers, electronics, and scientific programming.

Profile

• Master in physics or related topics
• Affinity for atomic, molecular, and optical physics
• Preferably some experience with experimental techniques
• Most important is that you are bright, enthusiastic, work well in a team, are eager to learn, and of course that you are enthusiastic about this intriguing project!

What We Offer

A challenging position in a socially engaged organisation. At VU Amsterdam, you contribute to education, research and service for a better world. And that is valuable. So in return for your efforts, we offer you:

• A salary of €3.059,00 (PhD) and maximum €3.881,00 (PhD) gross per month in the fourth year, for a full-time employment
• An employment contract of initially 1 year. If there is sufficient perspective, this will be extended to a total of 4 years. Your dissertation at the end of the fourth year forms the end of your employment contract.

We also offer you attractive fringe benefits and arrangements. Some examples:

• A full-time 38-hour working week comes with a holiday leave entitlement of 232 hours per year. If you choose to work 40 hours, you have 96 extra holiday leave hours on an annual basis. For part-timers, this is calculated pro rata.
• 8% holiday allowance and 8.3% end-of-year bonus
• Contribution to commuting expenses
• Optional model for designing a personalized benefits package
• Discount on (and occasionally exclusive access to) theater performances and courses at the Griffioen Cultural Center

About Us

Quantum Metrology and Laser Applications (QMLA) group in the Department of Physics and Astronomy
The Quantum Metrology and Laser Applications group at LaserLaB, Vrije Universiteit Amsterdam, is a very international group, consisting of some 20 strongly collaborating senior and junior scientists. The group focuses on precision measurements of atomic and molecular systems, using advanced laser techniques as well as techniques to cool the motion of atoms and molecules. For this, they use the joint infrastructure at LaserLaB, with a variety of lasers ranging from ultrastable to ultrafast, connected to atomic clocks and frequency comb lasers. The goals are to test fundamental theories of physics (like Quantum Electrodynamics), to determine fundamental constants (like the proton-electron mass ratio), and to search for physics beyond the Standard Model, such as fifth forces and extra dimensions.

Faculty of Science
Researchers and students at VU Amsterdam’s Faculty of Science tackle fundamental and complex scientific problems to help pave the way for a sustainable and healthy future. From forest fires to big data, from obesity to malnutrition, and from molecules to the moon: we cover the full spectrum of the natural sciences. Our teaching and research have a strong experimentally technical, computational and interdisciplinary nature.

We work on new solutions guided by value-driven, interdisciplinary methodologies. We are committed to research, valorisation and training socially engaged citizens of the world who will make valuable contributions to a sustainable, healthy future.

Are you interested in joining the Faculty of Science? You will join undergraduate students, PhD candidates and researchers at the biggest sciences faculty in the Netherlands. You will combine a professional focus with a broad view of the world. We are proud of our collegial working climate, characterised by committed staff, a pragmatic attitude and engagement in the larger whole. The faculty is home to over 11,000 students enrolled in 40 study programmes. It employs over 1,600 professionals spread across 10 academic departments.

Vrije Universiteit Amsterdam
Vrije Universiteit Amsterdam stands for values-driven education and research. We are open-minded experts with the ability to think freely. Maintaining an entrepreneurial perspective and concentrating on diversity, significance and humanity, we work on sustainable solutions with social impact. By joining forces, across the boundaries of disciplines, we work towards a better world for people and planet. Together we create a safe and respectful working and study climate, and an inspiring environment for education and research.

We are located on one physical campus, in the heart of Amsterdam's Zuidas business district, with excellent location and accessibility. Over 5,500 staff work at the VU and over 30,000 students attend academic education.

Applications will be considered until the position is filled.