Physicist or similar (f/m/x) - Development of Quantum Memories for Space Applications

Location

Ulm | Germany

Job description

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Scientific activities / projects

Development of Quantum Memories for Space Applications

Development of Quantum Memories for Space Applications

Starting date

1. March 2024

Duration of contract

initially limited to 2 years

Remuneration

up to German TVöD 13

Type of employment

Full-time (part-time possible)

The aim of the Institute of Quantum Technologies in Ulm is to develop precision instruments for space applications based on quantum technologies and to bring them to prototype maturity in close cooperation with industry. Together with the Institute for Satellite Geodesy and Inertial Sensing in Hannover and the Galileo Competence Center in Oberpfaffenhofen, the institute in Ulm plays a pioneering role in these fields of research and application.

Within the institute, the quantum engineering department engages in development of applicable quantum technologies for space missions as well as terrestrial areas. This involves design, simulation, realization and testing of prototype systems. A major goal is their miniaturization especially under the severe constraints and harsh conditions that space missions are facing. To achieve this, it is necessary to master individual manufacturing processes and methods, such as assembly and integration of systems containing quantum optical, cryogenic, or vacuum technologies.

Quantum Memories for Fundamental Science in Space

Investigations into the foundations of quantum mechanics and their link to gravity and general relativity require sensitive quantum experiments. To provide ultimate insight, the realization of experiments in space will sooner or later become a necessity. Quantum technologies and among them quantum memories are providing novel approaches to reach conclusive experimental results. A better operational understanding of quantum technologies in space is furthermore crucial for large scale technological development of satellite-based quantum-communications networks.

Our department is therefore looking into the development of quantum memories. As a first step, we are building an optical quantum memory based on rare-earth-ion-doped crystals (REID). This setup will serve as a platform to investigate applications and possible strategies for miniaturization. To support this effort, we highly benefit from our involvement in project BECCAL, which will offer the capability to operate a quantum memory on the International Space Station.

Your tasks:

• You are part of a team which investigates the requirements for deployment of quantum memories in space.
• You will build quantum optical experiments for characterization of quantum memories.
• You will implement memory protocols with relevance for scientific applications and fundamental research in space.
• Based on your results, you will develop further experiments in order to achieve necessary miniaturization of quantum memories for space flight or terrestrial field applications.

Receive your doctorate in this innovative area. Be part of our team and lay the foundation for future development of quantum technologies.

• completed scientific university degree (Master / Diploma Uni) in physics or other degree programmes relevant to the job
• sound knowledge of quantum physics
• basic programming experience
• very good computer skills such as MS-Office (Excel Word, Powerpoint)
• confident knowledge of written and spoken English
• willingness to work in a team of scientists and technicians
• A prerequisite for employment at DLR is security clearance in accordance with the Security Clearance Act (SÜG) and the willingness to undergo a security clearance in accordance with §8 ff SÜG.
• experience with Phyton and C/C++is an advantage
• ideally experience with Computer Aided Design (CAD)
• experience with quantum optics or solid-state physics experiments is an advantage
• experience with quantum memory experiments, especially in solid-state media desired
• experience in practical laboratory work, in data analysis and physical modelling is an advantage

Look forward to a fulfilling job with an employer who appreciates your commitment and supports your personal and professional development. Our unique infrastructure offers you a working environment in which you have unparalleled scope to develop your creative ideas and accomplish your professional objectives. Our human resources policy places great value on a healthy family and work-life-balance as well as equal opportunities for persons of all genders (f/m/x). Individuals with disabilities will be given preferential consideration in the event their qualifications are equivalent to those of other candidates.

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