Postdoctoral Researcher

Role and vision

We are now looking for a Postdoctoral Researcher to help build an autonomous superconducting quantum processor in the Quantum Computing and Devices (QCD) group at Aalto University. The position is aimed at an exceptional cQED researcher who wants to turn recent component-level breakthroughs into a new system architecture for scalable superconducting quantum computing.

Instead of routing every measurement and control step to room temperature, our long-term vision is to provide readout, reset, control, and feedback functions inside the cryogenic environment. If successful, this approach can reduce latency, wiring burden, dissipation, and system complexity — and open a new path towards scalable superconducting quantum computers. This research direction, initiated by Prof. Mikko Möttönen, is supported by the Jane and Aatos Erkko Foundation, Research Council of Finland, and the Novo Nordisk Foundation.

Why this is an exciting moment

QCD has recently demonstrated single-shot qubit readout with a thermal detector, correlation measurements of propagating microwave photons at millikelvin, rapid on-demand generation of thermal states in superconducting circuits, and transmon coherence reaching the millisecond threshold. In addition, our recent “Quantum dial” arXiv paper introduces a first-generation device that switches a qubit on demand between isolation and strong coupling for reset, control, and thermometry.

Together, these advances make this the right moment to integrate improved qubits and millikelvin control and readout elements into autonomous-processor experiments. This postdoc will help move from strong individual components to system-level demonstrations that may reshape how superconducting quantum processors are built in the future.

Your network and team

You will work in a highly collaborative team that combines superconducting-qubit physics, quantum-circuit theory, cryogenic microwave engineering, nanofabrication, and data-driven experimentation. QCD is embedded in a broader Finnish quantum ecosystem with close collaboration across Aalto, VTT, and leading national and international partners.

The group’s entrepreneurial track record includes spinouts and alumni-linked companies such as IQM, QMill, Quanscient, and Arctic Instruments. This is a rare opportunity to join a team that combines frontier science, device building, and a credible route to real-world impact.

Your responsibilities

• Design, simulate, build, and/or measure superconducting quantum circuits and millikelvin components relevant to the autonomous quantum processing unit (AQPU).
• Advance subsystem integration for readout, reset, control, dissipation engineering, and feedback at cryogenic temperatures.
• Carry out and guide microwave and cQED experiments, data analysis, and iterative device improvement.
• Work closely with team members and collaborators to prioritize milestones towards the autonomous quantum processing unit.
• Help supervise students and contribute to a strong collaborative culture.

What we are looking for

• PhD in cQED, superconducting qubits, quantum microwave engineering, applied physics, or a related field.
• Strong experience in several of the following: quantum-microwave circuit design, electromagnetic simulation, CAD, cryogenic measurements, qubit control and readout, data acquisition and analysis, scientific writing, and sample fabrication or integration.
• Excellent experimental judgement and the ability to move from concept to convincing demonstration.
• Ambition for high-impact work and motivation to collaborate across theory, experiment, and engineering.
• Fluency in English; Finnish is not required.
• Outstanding candidates from closely related fields are encouraged even if they do not match every item, but some experience on microwave experiments in cQED must be demonstrated.

What we offer

• A full-time fixed-term postdoctoral appointment, typically up to three years on the first contract. The start date is 1 September or as agreed.
• The salary range for this position is approximately 4229–4649 €/month.
• A major opportunity to help define a new architecture for superconducting quantum computing.
• A well-equipped laboratory environment with dilution refrigerators, microwave-measurement infrastructure, software, and access to nanofabrication through the local ecosystem.
• Strong funding, an ambitious team, and close interaction with national and international collaborators.
• Aalto’s inclusive culture and the possibility to grow scientifically, professionally, and entrepreneurially.

Join us

The deadline for applications is 1st of June 2026. Please submit your CV, publication list, a short cover letter focused on your fit and achievements, and contact details for referees through Aalto University’s recruitment system (click the "Apply” button). You may also include a brief research vision for the role.

Please note: Aalto University’s employees should apply for the position via our internal HR system Workday (Internal Jobs) by using their existing Workday user account (not via the external webpage for open positions). If you are a student or visitor at Aalto University, please apply with your personal email address (not aalto.fi) via Aalto University open positions.

We will go through applications, and we may invite suitable candidates to interview already during the application period. Aalto University reserves the right for justified reasons to leave the position open, to extend the application period, reopen the application process, and to consider candidates who have not submitted applications during the application period.

For more information about the role, please contact Prof. Mikko Möttönen mikko.mottonen@aalto.fi. For questions related to the application process, please contact HR Advisor Minni Forss minni.forss@aalto.fi.