Physicist (m/f/x) - MEMS cryogenic Temperature Swicht

At the DLR Institute of Quantum Technologies in Ulm, we develop precision instruments for space applications based on quantum technologies and bring them to prototype maturity together with industry. In addition, we are driving forward the transfer to aeronautics, digitalisation, energy, security and transport. We have an interdisciplinary approach: Theoretical basic research and experimental tests meet engineering implementation.

What to expect

The Micro- and Nanosystems Integration Department develops technologies for the implementation and miniaturization of quantum systems and, on behalf of the DLR Quantum Computing Initiative, operates the microtechnology processes in the cleanroom laboratory at the Innovation Center in Hamburg. The process chain encompasses traditional microfabrication steps with a particular focus on the technology required for ion-trap-based quantum computers. In addition to providing the equipment, comprehensive process chains for the fabrication of surface traps are developed and made available for further development by companies or for internal research projects. Furthermore, a test system for ion traps is to be established at the Hamburg Innovation Center to enable a rapid innovation cycle.

We are seeking a dedicated individual to design, build, and operate a cryogenic test platform for planar surface traps for ions. With the help of rapid, standardized tests in the new ion trap system, the innovation cycle for the production of chip-based surface traps for ions is to be significantly accelerated. The test platform will be developed in collaboration with innovative partners and will be available not only for the department’s own development activities but also to industry and partners at the Hamburg Innovation Center.

Your tasks

• You will closely work with external partners, you will set up and commission a cryogenic ultra-high-vacuum test system for planar ion surface traps with side-band cooling to measure, for example, motion heating rates.
• You will develop standardized calibration and measurement routines for the basic characterization of various surface trap designs, thereby establishing a comparable, design-agnostic test platform with the goal of achieving fast, reproducible measurement operations.
• You will develop the experimental control and data acquisition systems (Python/ARTIQ) for automated, reproducible measurement sequences, systematically evaluate the results, and build a structured characterization database covering all tested trap designs.
• You will work closely with external partners to make a long-term contribution to the ion trap innovation ecosystem in Hamburg.

Your profile

• A completed university degree (Master’s/Diploma/Ph.D.) in physics, engineering physics, or a comparable field with an experimental focus on atomic/ion physics, laser technology, or quantum optics
• Proven practical experience in setting up and operating a quantum physics experimental setup, ideally for surface ion traps, as well as with laser cooling and side-band cooling to the quantum ground state
• Experience with cryogenic systems and ultra-high vacuum (UHV) technology: setup, operation, and troubleshooting of cryogenic vacuum equipment
• Practical experience with analog and digital electronic systems for experiment control, as well as programming skills in Python; if applicable, knowledge of ARTIQ/Sinara
• A strong interest in reproducible, robust system design and systematic measurement techniques; Ability to quickly transition a complex experimental setup into measurement mode
• Experience in developing standardized measurement and calibration routines for quantum optical experiments; Ability to structure and automate measurement procedures in such a way that reproducible, comparable results are achieved across different samples and measurement campaigns
• Team-oriented, structured approach to work with a high level of motivation and strong communication skills in English for close collaboration with external partners

Remuneration is up to the German TVöD 13 depending on qualifications and assigned tasks.

We look forward to getting to know you!

If you have any questions about this position (Vacancy-ID 5881) please contact:

Dr. Jakob Buchheim

Tel.: +49 731 400198 909