Tomasz Smoleński

The Quantum Opto-Electronics research group, led by Prof. Tomasz Smoleński at the Department of Physics, University of Basel, Switzerland, is seeking a highly motivated PhD student to join a cutting-edge project funded by an ERC Starting Grant. The group specializes in low-temperature magneto-optical and quantum-optical spectroscopy, focusing on strongly correlated electronic, excitonic, and spin phenomena in tunable, low-dimensional quantum materials, particularly van der Waals (vdW) heterostructures. This PhD position is part of the OptoQuantTOP ERC Starting Grant project, which aims to achieve optical control over strongly correlated topological phases of matter. The successful candidate will play a key role in exploring collective many-body phenomena through magneto-opto-electronic experiments conducted under extreme conditions, including temperatures as low as ~10 mK and magnetic fields up to ~10 T. The research will involve manipulating correlated topological phases of matter using light at ultrafast time scales, with the goal of developing a new generation of optically-programmable topological circuits. Students will have access to state-of-the-art facilities, including dry low-temperature magneto-optical cryostats, dilution refrigerators with optical access, pulsed laser systems, and clean-room device fabrication equipment. The position offers a unique opportunity to help establish a new magneto-optical laboratory and to work with advanced apparatus for ultra-low temperature spectroscopy and sample fabrication. The University of Basel provides a stimulating academic environment, with internationally recognized research groups in both experimental and theoretical condensed matter physics. The research team is dynamic and newly established, fostering a collaborative spirit and high interaction among members, which is ideal for professional growth and research development. The university offers internationally competitive salaries and social benefits, in accordance with its guidelines, and the city of Basel provides a vibrant, international setting at the crossroads of Switzerland, France, and Germany. Eligibility requirements include a Master's degree (or near completion) in Physics, Nanoscience, Electrical/Optical Engineering, or related fields, with a strong background in condensed matter physics and optics. Candidates should be familiar with data analysis and programming (Python, C++, Labview), and possess excellent communication, teamwork, and presentation skills. A demonstrated research track record in condensed matter physics is highly valued, and experience in magneto-optical spectroscopy, device fabrication, clean-room processing, and computer-based simulations (COMSOL) is desirable. Proficiency in English is required. Applications should include a CV, a statement of scientific interests (max. 1 page), a publication list, transcripts with grades, and contact details for at least two references. Apply via the online recruiting platform. For more information, visit the group website or contact Prof. Tomasz Smoleński directly. Applications are reviewed on a rolling basis until the position is filled, with a formal deadline of February 13, 2026.

The Quantum Opto-Electronics research group, led by Professor Tomasz Smoleński at the Department of Physics, University of Basel, Switzerland, invites applications for a PhD student position funded by the OptoQuantTOP ERC Starting Grant. The group specializes in low-temperature magneto-optical and quantum-optical spectroscopy to study strongly correlated electronic, excitonic, and spin phenomena in advanced quantum materials, particularly van der Waals heterostructures. The successful candidate will join a dynamic, newly-established team focused on controlling topological phases of matter using light, with experiments conducted under extreme conditions—temperatures down to ~10 mK and magnetic fields up to ~10 T. This project aims to manipulate correlated topological phases at ultrafast time scales, paving the way for optically-programmable topological circuits. The candidate will have access to state-of-the-art facilities, including dry low-temperature magneto-optical cryostats, dilution refrigerators with optical access, pulsed laser systems, and clean-room device fabrication equipment. The research environment is highly collaborative, with opportunities to interact with internationally recognized groups in both experimental and theoretical condensed matter physics. Applicants should hold or be near completion of a Master's degree in Physics, Nanoscience, Electrical/Optical Engineering, or related fields. A strong background in condensed matter physics and optics is essential, along with experience in data analysis and programming (Python, C++, Labview). Additional desirable skills include magneto-optical spectroscopy at cryogenic conditions, fabrication of two-dimensional materials and van der Waals heterostructures, clean-room processing, and computer-based simulations (COMSOL). Excellent communication, teamwork, and presentation skills, as well as a high level of English proficiency, are required. A record of research publications or conference presentations in condensed matter physics is highly valued. The position offers an internationally competitive salary and social benefits according to University of Basel guidelines. The successful candidate will work in Basel, a vibrant international city at the crossroads of Switzerland, France, and Germany. This is a unique opportunity to help establish a new magneto-optical laboratory and advance your research career in a stimulating academic setting. To apply, submit your CV, research experience, a one-page statement of scientific interests, publication list, transcripts, and contact details of at least two references via the online recruiting platform. Applications are reviewed on a rolling basis until the position is filled. For more information, visit smolenski-lab.com or contact Prof. Tomasz Smoleński at [email protected] .

The Quantum Opto-Electronics Group (QOEG) at the Department of Physics, University of Basel, led by Prof. Dr. Tomasz Smoleński and in collaboration with Prof. Martino Poggio, invites applications for a PhD position focused on the local sensing of collective spin phases in semiconducting moiré materials (SMMs). This research aims to advance the control of magnetism at the nanoscale, leveraging the unique properties of SMMs—twisted or lattice-mismatched monolayers of van der Waals crystals with flat electronic bands and excellent optical characteristics. Embedded in gated heterostructures, SMMs host a variety of collective spin phases, serving as artificial quantum materials that provide direct optical access to spin physics and offer tunability comparable to cold-atom simulators. The project will integrate optical spectroscopy with SQUID-on-tip (SOT) magnetometry, combining the dynamical control of optical experiments with the spatial resolution of SOT. This hybrid approach enables simultaneous application of both techniques on a single device, opening new avenues for fundamental research and nanotechnology applications. As a PhD student, you will participate in all aspects of research, including engineering and fabricating electrically-tunable devices, designing and assembling experimental setups, and performing magneto-optical measurements. The University of Basel offers a vibrant, international research environment with cutting-edge infrastructure, fostering openness, diversity, team spirit, and scientific curiosity. Applicants should hold or expect to soon obtain an MSc degree in Physics, Electrical/Optical Engineering, or a closely related discipline. A strong background in condensed matter physics and optics, excellent academic record, experience with data analysis and software tools for automated measurement, and proficiency in English are required. Desirable qualifications include research publications, experience in scanning probe experiments (STM, NV magnetometry, SQUID-on-tip), and clean-room processing or handling van der Waals materials. To apply, submit your application via the University of Basel's online recruiting tool, including your CV, publication list, conference presentations, and contact details of at least two referees. Applications will be reviewed until the position is filled. The deadline for initial review is July 2, 2026.

Join the Quantum Opto-Electronics Group (QOEG) at the University of Basel as a Postdoctoral Fellow and help shape the future of quantum computing. This position focuses on developing ultrafast, non-destructive spin qubit readout—a critical milestone for scalable quantum processors. Spin qubits in semiconductor quantum dots are considered among the most promising building blocks for next-generation quantum technologies. Led by Prof. Dr. Tomasz Smoleński, the QOEG operates within the Department of Physics and is part of the NCCR SPIN consortium, offering a unique opportunity to contribute to groundbreaking research. The project centers on creating a platform for dynamical optical Q-switching of superconducting resonators, enabling ultrafast and nondestructive readout of gate-defined spin qubits. You will conduct high-frequency opto-transport experiments at cryogenic temperatures, design and optimize experimental setups for optoelectronic measurements, and collaborate closely with consortium partners, including the groups of Prof. Richard Warburton and Dr. Andreas Kuhlmann. Applicants must hold a PhD (completed or near completion) in Physics, Nanoscience, Electrical/Optical Engineering, or related fields. Required skills include proven expertise in condensed matter physics (especially quantum dot systems or superconducting circuits), experience with high-frequency transport experiments at low temperatures, proficiency in computer-based data acquisition and processing (Python, C++, LabView), and a strong publication record. Excellent teamwork, communication skills, and the ability to work autonomously and innovate are essential. Experience with dilution refrigerators, ultrafast optical experiments, and pulsed laser systems is desirable. The University of Basel offers an inspiring, international research environment with cutting-edge infrastructure, excellent opportunities for scientific development and career advancement, and attractive employment conditions. The institution is committed to openness, diversity, team spirit, and scientific curiosity, fostering an inclusive and equitable research environment. To apply, use the online recruiting tool and submit your CV, motivation letter, publication list, conference presentations, and contact details of at least two referees. Applications are reviewed until the position is filled. The University strongly encourages applications from women, underrepresented genders, and candidates from diverse backgrounds. For more information and to apply, visit the application link provided.