Temporary researcher: Post-foundry quantum dot spin qubit device and characterization

Bridge the gap between foundry-fabricated devices and rapid, lab-based quantum device prototyping

What you will do

Quantum dot spin qubits in silicon, silicon-silicon germanium and germanium, by virtue of their CMOS-compatibility and long coherence times, are among the most promising candidates for scalable quantum computing. At imec, we have demonstrated multiple types of high-fidelity quantum dot spin qubit devices fabricated in a 300 mm foundry with qubit fidelities systematically exceeding 99% [1,2], leveraging the exquisite cleanliness and process control of advanced CMOS manufacturing methods [3]. To further advance these platforms and speed up our innovation cycle, we are looking for an experienced quantum dot researcher to help bridge the gap between foundry-fabricated devices and rapid, lab-based quantum device prototyping – adding a ‘fab to lab’ component to an ongoing lab-to-fab effort.

In this role, you will work with fabrication experts in both imec’s 300 mm fab facility as well as its university-style laboratory to help take pre-processed 300 mm substrates from the fab into the lab and continue the fabrication of quantum dot devices in the lab using advanced nanofabrication techniques. You will act as a bridge between the 300 mm fab and lab efforts. You will be responsible for cryogenic characterization of the devices and extracting the key qubit parameters and assist in and guide the lab-based fabrication process. Your insights will directly feed into iterative design and process improvements.

As a whole, you will work closely with a multidisciplinary team of experts in fabrication, integration, modelling, and quantum computing You are also expected to share your progress with imec’s internal teams, industrial partners, and the broader scientific community through presentations and publications.

References: 1. Steinacker et al., A 300 mm foundry silicon spin qubit unit cell exceeding 99% fidelity in all operations, arXiv 2410.15590 (2024) (Nature, in press); 2. Koch et al., Industrial 300 mm wafer processed spin qubits in natural silicon/silicon-germanium, NPJ quantum information 11, 59 (2025); 3 Elsayed et al., Low charge noise quantum dots with industrial CMOS manufacturing, NPJ quantum information 10, 70 (2024)

What we do for you

We offer you the opportunity to join one of the world’s premier research centers in nanotechnology at its headquarters in Leuven, Belgium (fixed term contract). With your talent, passion and expertise, you’ll become part of a team that makes the impossible possible. Together, we shape the technology that will determine the society of tomorrow.

We are committed to being an inclusive employer and proud of our open, multicultural, and informal working environment with ample possibilities to take initiative and show responsibility. We commit to supporting and guiding you in this process; not only with words but also with tangible actions. Through imec.academy, 'our corporate university', we actively invest in your development to further your technical and personal growth.

We are aware that your valuable contribution makes imec a top player in its field. Your energy and commitment are therefore appreciated by means of a market appropriate salary with many fringe benefits.

Who you are

• You have a PhD degree in (applied) physics or electrical engineering or related fields and have active experience with quantum dot spin qubit devices.
• Experience with cryogenic characterization of semiconducting qubit systems is a must.
• Hands-on experience in lab-processing and clean-room based device fabrication is a strong plus.
• Self-motivated, innovative, results driven, and a team-player.
• We appreciate your open mind, multi-disciplinary attitude and “always improving” mentality.
• Given the international character of imec, good knowledge of (spoken and written) English is a must.
• We seek a candidate who thrives in a dynamic work environment, showcasing an adaptability to diverse projects or research topics. You’ll be a key team player, ready to support colleagues and tackle impactful projects within the timelines of our trusted global partners.

Job details

Title: Temporary researcher: Post-foundry quantum dot spin qubit device and characterization

Employer: imec

Location: Kapeldreef 75 Leuven, Belgium

Published: 2025-09-10

Application deadline: Unspecified

Job type: Researcher

Field: Electrical Engineering, Applied Physics, Quantum Physics, Cryogenics, Nanotechnology