PhD Position in Quantum NanoElectronics and NanoMechanics at ICFO Institute of Photonic Sciences (ICFO) in Spain

The Institute of Photonic Sciences (ICFO) is offering a PhD position for a well-qualified graduate student in the Quantum NanoElectronics and NanoMechanics group, led by Prof. Dr. Adrian Bachtold. This opportunity is part of the Generación de Conocimiento 2024 research project, funded by the Spanish Ministry of Science, Innovation and Universities, AEI, and the European Regional Development Fund (FEDER).

The Quantum NanoElectronics and NanoMechanics group investigates emergent quantum phenomena in hybrid electrical and mechanical systems engineered from low-dimensional condensed matter platforms, including graphene and carbon nanotubes. The successful candidate will develop charge qubits with enhanced coherence in pristine nanotubes, coupling them to mechanical oscillations and reading out the hybrid system with a superconducting resonator. The research aims to demonstrate the charge double-quantum dot qubit with the longest quantum coherence and to use the charge qubit for quantum control of phonon states, including the realization of a mechanical qubit and the demonstration of new quantum sensing protocols.

PhD students at ICFO benefit from top-level training and teaching, extensive course offerings from local universities, and focused instruction by ICFO professors in a stimulating, international, and interdisciplinary environment. The program offers access to a network of excellence, including national and international research institutes, universities, and industrial partners in the field.

The position provides hands-on experience with cryogenics and low-noise radio-frequency measurements in a 10 mK dilution cryostat, applying experimental techniques similar to those used for superconducting qubits in quantum computing efforts at IBM and Google. The candidate will gain expertise in advanced quantum technologies and contribute to cutting-edge research in quantum nanoelectronics and nanomechanics.

Funding for this position is provided through a fellowship associated with the Generación de Conocimiento 2024 project. Applicants should be well-qualified graduate students with a strong background in physics, materials science, or engineering. Experience with quantum phenomena, cryogenics, radio-frequency measurements, or condensed matter platforms is advantageous. No explicit language or GPA requirements are mentioned.

To apply, candidates should submit their application via the ICFO portal at the provided link. The application process includes preparing a CV and supporting documents and following the instructions on the portal. For further information, candidates may contact the group directly.