Assistant Professor – Quantum Photonic Devices Characterization, NQCP i København

Assistant Professor on Characterization and Development of Integrated Quantum Photonic Devices at NQCP

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 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 todevelop fault-tolerant quantum computing hardware and quantum algorithms that solve life-science-relevant chemical and biological problems.

NQCP is seeking an experienced quantum photonic researcher to oversee the Photonics unit within the Characterization Team. You will be establishing and running protocols to evaluate the progress of our state-of-the-art quantum photonic experiments and developing hardware for the generation and processing of high-quality photonic entanglement, central to our photonic quantum processors. As part of the position, you will lead a team of photonic researchers and engineers, and be responsible for designing, operating, and automatizing room-temperature setups (classical characterization) and cryogenic setups (quantum characterization) . The scope of responsibility centers on photonic system engineering and includes running measurements, data tracking & analysis, and reporting. The work will be done in close collaboration with various teams in the NQCP program, such as the photonic platform team, fabrication, theory & simulation teams, and Quantum Foundry Copenhagen (QFC), as well as various international partners from industry and academia.

The assistant professor’s duties will primarily include research, including obligations with regard to publication/scientific communication and research-based teaching with associated examination obligations within Physics. To a limited extent this may also include performance of other duties.

Responsibilities

• Develop quantum photonic experiments, including cryogenic and optical setups.
• Implement and document photonic quantum experiments, analyze data, and generate reports from these experiments.
• Manage the use of existing equipment and select the equipment for specialized tests.
• Engage with the simulation and design of solid-state hardware for photonic entanglement generation.
• Engage with other teams developing device fabrication, control, and architecture; help standardizing benchmarks between qubit platforms.
• Be able to work independently and manage a team for developing, characterizing, analyzing photonic components – while confidently directing others as needed to achieve results at pace.
• Actively look for and apply to funding opportunities

Engage with partners from the Danish Quantum Ecosystem.

Assessment of applicants will primarily consider their level of documented, internationally competitive research. The ability to attract external funding will be considered together with outreach qualifications. Teaching qualifications are not mandatory but documented teaching qualifications and teaching experience will be considered.

Six overall criteria apply for assistant professor appointments at the University of Copenhagen. The six criteria (research, teaching, societal impact, organisational contribution, external funding and leadership) are considered a framework for the overall assessment of candidates. Furthermore, each candidate must be assessed according to the specific requirements stated in the job advertisement. Please read more at https://jobportal.ku.dk/videnskabelige-stillinger/kriterier-for-videnskabelige-stillinger/dokumenter-til-meritering/5a_Criteria_for_recognising_merit_-Assistant_professors.pdf .

For further information about the position, please contact: Stefano Paesani (stefano.paesani@nbi.ku.dk); Stuart Wayne Woods (stuart.woods@nbi.ku.dk).

The University wishes our staff to reflect the diversity of society and thus welcomes applications from all qualified candidates regardless of personal background.

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 positions are limited in time until 31 December 2029 and appointment will be subject to receipt of a security clearance.

The application, in English, must be submitted electronically by clicking APPLY NOW below.

When you will be affiliated with the University of Copenhagen or otherwise have access to their research, you may be required to undergo a background screening. The purpose is to protect the security and research integrity of the University of Copenhagen.

Please include

• Curriculum vitae

• Diplomas (Master and PhD degree or equivalent)

• Research plan – description of current and future research plans

• If available, description and documentation of teaching and supervision experience and qualifications - please describe and document:

  • Experience with supervision of BSc and MSc students
  • Teaching experience
  • Formal pedagogical training

• Complete publication list

• Separate reprints of 5 particularly relevant papers

The deadline for applications is 4 March 2026 23:59 GMT +1.

After the expiry of the deadline for applications, the authorized recruitment manager selects applicants for assessment on the advice of the Interview Committee.

You can read about the recruitment process at http://employment.ku.dk/faculty/recruitment-process/.

Please refer to the following no. in future communication in this case: 211-0XXX.