We will develop a new platform for quantum computing, based on trapped ions in combination with optical tweezers. We will explore the use of tightly focused laser beams and their interaction with crystals of trapped ions to realize new ways to prepare and control qubits, making particular use of the so-called optical Magnus effect, an optical analogue of the well-known classical Magnus effect that is for instance applied in football, causing ball trajectories to curve. In trapped ions, this effect can be used to implement state-of-the-art quantum gates. The tweezers can also be used to sub-Doppler cool the ion crystal and for qubit readout. We will also explore the scalability of the scheme by designing ion traps based on integrated photonics for tweezer delivery.

• at least 8 months of master project in experimental ultracold atom or trapped ion group;
• good team working skills;
• good English skills;
• strong letter of recommendation from master project supervisor;

For MSCA PhD positions it is required that the applicant shall at the date of recruitment be in the first four years (full-time equivalent research experience) of their research careers and have not been awarded a doctoral degree. The applicant must not have resided or carried out her/his main activity (e.g. work or studies) in the Netherlands for more than 12 months in the three years immediately prior the recruitment date.

A temporary contract for 38 hours per week for the duration of 4 years (the initial contract will be for a period of 18 months and after satisfactory evaluation it will be extended for a total duration of 4 years). The preferred starting date is 1 October 2025 or as soon as possible after that. This should lead to a dissertation (PhD thesis). We will draft an educational plan that includes attendance of courses and (international) meetings. We also expect you to assist in teaching undergraduates and master students.