We are looking for a Research Group Leader of Physics of Quantum Devices (PQD) to work in the International Centre for Theory of Quantum Technologies (ICTQT) hosted by the University of Gdańsk.

The position has been created as part of the "International Centre for Theory of Quantum Technologies 2.0: R&D Industrial and Experimental Phase” project (contract no. FENG.02.01-IP.05-0006/23). The project is implemented under the International Research Agenda Program IRAP FENG programme financed by the European Funds for a Smart Economy 2021-2027 (FENG), Priority FENG.02 Innovation-friendly environment, Measure FENG.02.01 International Research Agendas.

Key responsibilities include:

1. Planning, execution, and management of a research programme of physics of quantum devices, involvement in other general activities related to the FENG project including reporting, evaluation, and recruitment.
2. Research leadership involving expansion to new avenues concerning physics and applied physics of quantum devices, and active role in setting up of international research collaborations and networks.
3. Being a guardian of professional integrity.
4. Active procurement of new research grants from external sources (Flagship, ERC, National Science Centre, etc.) with the aim of stabilizing the developing line of research at ICTQT beyond the FENG project.

About FENG project

The increasing number of interconnected devices has made secure information transfer and collection essential. However, communication networks are vulnerable to attacks, and cryptographic codes can become breakable with advances in computer algorithms. Quantum technologies offer solutions to such problems, enabling processes that are impossible with standard methods. However, even though few examples of quantum technologies have passed beyond the proof of concept stage, there are still factors which hinder their application potential. The run-of-the-mill development strategy is to keep the core methods behind quantum technologies as they are and focus on incremental improvements of various components. In our opinion, what quantum technologies need to reach the expected high socioeconomic impact, are qualitative breakthroughs and the introduction of new core methodologies. Thus, our emblematic technological goals relevant for both the research agenda of the project No. FENG.02.01-IP.05-0006/23 and the scientific mission of ICTQT, are to develop new out-of-the-box disruptive methods for quantum technologies, as well as new applications of quantum methods, both aimed at broader and faster commercialization. Our research will focus on developing quantum devices and patentable intellectual property, such as quantum random number generators, quantum communication links, improved sensing and metrology or quantum software. We shall address the needs of the maritime sector, including off-shore wind farms. We shall collaborate with the official partner, IQOQI-Vienna, groups majoring in experiments in Warsaw, Stockholm, Munich and Concepción, and with industrial partners.

Description of Physics of Quantum Devices (PQD) Research Group at ICTQT

The group’s objectives are: analysis of physical implementations of quantum devices, understanding their dynamics, and optimizing their performance. This includes research on quantum gates, quantum thermal machines, quantum batteries.

The group’s tasks include: optimizing pulses for quantum gates to reduce decoherence, designing scenarios for efficient charging quantum batteries, new schemes for cooling via microscopic fridges. Also design and optimization of quantum heat engines and other thermal machines. The aim is to achieve charging and cooling of the quantum computer via built-in microscopic mechanisms, thereby reducing external macroscopic control, and the heating that it introduces.

NOTE: 

The candidate may suggest changes to the proposed group agenda. Any changes must be presented and justified in the proposal. The proposed new agenda must be concurrent with the objectives of the FENG project.

About ICTQT 

The International Centre for Theory of Quantum Technologies (ICTQT) is a joint research unit of the University of Gdańsk (UG) and the Institute of Quantum Optics and Quantum Information of the Austrian Academy of Sciences (IQOQI-Vienna) subordinated to the UG Rector. ICTQT was established in 2018 as a part of the International Research Agendas program co-financed by the Foundation for Polish Science.

ICTQT is a pioneering and leading quantum information research center in Poland, focused on quantum communication and new computing techniques. The purpose of the ICTQT is to conduct scientific research and development works under the adopted ICTQT Research Agenda, in an international academic environment and at the highest academic level, with due regard for high ethical standards, good academic practice in particular, and to disseminate knowledge. UG is active in quantum research since late 1980’s.

ICTQT is located in Gdansk, near are Gdynia and Sopot, which together form the Tri-City area. Gdansk is over 1000 years old and was and is an important city of Europe, a lot of historic events happened in it. The region is the cradle of Polish jazz and rock festivals. Moreover, it is one of the most beautifully located urban areas in Poland, with sandy sea beaches and woods with bike and bike paths within the cities. Nearby is the Kashubian Lake District, and the famous sandy Hel Peninsula, and Puck Bay, a  perfect wind/kite surfing location. The Tri-City is academic and cultural capitol of north Poland.

More information at: https://ictqt.ug.edu.pl.