Doctoral Position in neutral-atom quantum computing

Our research focusses on ultracold neutral atoms and their application in quantum technologies, in particular, quantum computing. We are currently establishing a new laboratory for laser cooling, trapping, and imaging ultracold rubidium atoms in optical lattices. With newly developed methods, such as high-fidelity collisional atom-atom interactions, we build highly coherent quantum machines capable of creating massively entangled quantum states for computing, simulation, sensing, and metrology.

Project background

Neutral atoms are one of the most promising quantum architectures of today. Yet, the current roadmaps towards neutral-atom fault-tolerant quantum computers are almost exclusively based on Rydberg interactions in optical tweezers. While Rydberg-based gates are fast, they have a massive drawback: finite Rydberg lifetimes and unavoidable decoherence due to spontaneous emission. Instead, our research will employ collisional interactions between atomic qubits, which are highly coherent, passively stable, and very scalable. By using optical lattices instead of optical tweezers we can trap and control more qubits per given laser power, eventually leading to a scalability advantage over the neutral-atom state-of-the-art.

We have recently overcome an important bottleneck in optical-lattice-based quantum processors, by integrating topological pumping as a method to shuttle atoms between lattice sites (see publications). When combined with stable collisional gates, a new quantum architecture emerges with the ability to create massively entangled states, large-scale quantum simulation, quantum sensing and, eventually, fault-tolerant computing.

In this experimental Doctoral project, you will play a central role in setting up the experimental apparatus, building a closely-knit team, and developing new concepts in collisional quantum processing.

Job description

• Building up the AQP team in a collaborative, enthusiastic, and communicative environment
• Setting up laser system for laser cooling, trapping, and imaging of rubidium-85 atoms
• Engineering and assembling UHV (ultra-high vacuum) system with excellent optical access for the quantum processor
• Programming and integrating experimental control hardware (ARTIQ) for running quantum information experiments
• Investigating novel schemes for quantum information processing based on collisional interactions, including theoretical calculations and numerical simulations
• Preseting your results at scientific conferences and publishing your work

Profile

• You should hold (or be close to completing) an MSc degree in physics, quantum engineering, electrical engineering, or closely related discipline
• You should have a strong motivation to build a quantum computer from scratch
• Excellent spoken and written English
• Willingness to work in an international and diverse team

Experience in any of the following laboratory techniques would be advantageous:

• Fibre coupling
• Optical/fluorescence microscopy
• Doppler-free absorption spectroscopy
• Spatial light modulation
• Laser locking, optical resonators
• Optical interferometers
• Gaussian beam profiling
• CAD development
• Soldering
• PCB development
• FPGA development
• Digital signal processing (DSP)

We offer

We offer a stimulating doctoral project on quantum computing with state-of-the-art neutral-atom techniques. The successful candidate with join a collaborative and international research group and will receive training in experimental techniques for AMO and quantum optics. The project will provide opportunities for collaboration with specialists in quantum information science, theoretical and experimental, as well as participation in interactional conferences and the supervision of student research projects.

The position is based at the Department of Physics (D-PHYS) and ETH Zurich's Hönggerberg campus in Zurich, Switzerland. The student will have an entire AMO laboratory at their disposal, including multiple laser systems, UHV chamber, control electronics, as well as realtime experimental sequencing. The project will also benefit from ETH Zurich's world-class expertise in AMO experiments and quantum information, as well as close collaboration with related research groups.

Working, teaching and research at ETH Zurich

We value diversity and sustainability

In line with our values, ETH Zurich encourages an inclusive culture. We promote equality of opportunity, value diversity and nurture a working and learning environment in which the rights and dignity of all our staff and students are respected. Visit our Equal Opportunities and Diversity website to find out how we ensure a fair and open environment that allows everyone to grow and flourish. Sustainability is a core value for us – we are consistently working towards a climate-neutral future.

Curious? So are we.

We look forward to receiving your online application with the following documents, as a single PDF file:

• Cover letter (max. 1 page) describing relevant skills and experience, research interests, and reasons for applying
• CV, including qualification and past academic and professional experience
• Academic transcripts for all university degrees
• Names and contact details of two referees (please inform them that they may be contacted)

Further information about our laboratory can be found on our website. Questions regarding the position should be directed to Prof. Konrad Viebahn, viebahnk@phys.ethz.ch (no applications).

Please note that we exclusively accept applications submitted through our online application portal. Applications via email or postal services will not be considered.

We would like to point out that the pre-selection is carried out by the responsible recruiters and not by artificial intelligence.

The targeted starting date is 1st October 2026 or upon mutual agreement. Review of applications will begin immediately and continue until the position is filled. Early applications are therefore strongly encourages.

About ETH Zürich

ETH Zurich is one of the world’s leading universities specialising in science and technology. We are renowned for our excellent education, cutting-edge fundamental research and direct transfer of new knowledge into society. Over 30,000 people from more than 120 countries find our university to be a place that promotes independent thinking and an environment that inspires excellence. Located in the heart of Europe, yet forging connections all over the world, we work together to develop solutions for the global challenges of today and tomorrow.