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Postdoc on Quantum Simulation & Computing with Single Sr Atoms in Optical Tweezers

  • Faculty of Science
  • 14810
  • PhD
  • €3.546 - €5.538
  • Closes on
    30-06-2026
Apply

Postdoc on Quantum Simulation & Computing with Single Sr Atoms in Optical Tweezers

  • Faculty of Science
  • 14810
  • PhD
  • €3.546 - €5.538
  • Closes on
    30-06-2026
Apply

Working at the UvA

Join us!

Join our strontium tweezer quantum simulation/computing team! We pioneer methods to manipulate individual strontium atoms in optical tweezers [Phys. Rev. Research 4, 023245 (2022), SciPost Phys. 19, 118 (2025), arXiv:2512.14611 (2025)] and make use of those methods for quantum simulations [arXiv:2509.03514 (2025)]. We have a range of interesting research avenues ahead of us, such as exploring 3D spin-systems, dynamics of spin excitations on fractals, or using qudits. We are embedded in the QDNL KAT-1 Neutral Atom Quantum Computing team, strongly collaborating with the Quantum Computing team at TU/e. 

Working at the UvA

Join us!

Join our strontium tweezer quantum simulation/computing team! We pioneer methods to manipulate individual strontium atoms in optical tweezers [Phys. Rev. Research 4, 023245 (2022), SciPost Phys. 19, 118 (2025), arXiv:2512.14611 (2025)] and make use of those methods for quantum simulations [arXiv:2509.03514 (2025)]. We have a range of interesting research avenues ahead of us, such as exploring 3D spin-systems, dynamics of spin excitations on fractals, or using qudits. We are embedded in the QDNL KAT-1 Neutral Atom Quantum Computing team, strongly collaborating with the Quantum Computing team at TU/e. 

All about this vacancy

This is what you will do

You will further develop our quantum simulation/computing approach. This includes experimental work with the tweezer machine, such as debugging and data taking, designing and constructing upgrades to the machines, data analysis, literature research, article writing, and contributing to the acquisition of funding. We ask you to become independent by taking initiative and developing your own creative ideas. You will also take an active role in group activities, such as master and PhD student education, presentation of your work, maintenance of lab organization, and societal and stakeholder outreach.

What we ask of you

We are looking for someone who is excited about pushing novel types of ultracold atom experiments to new realms of AMO physics. You also should have:

  • a recent PhD in experimental ultracold atom or trapped ion physics.
  • great team working skills.
  • initiative and good management skills.
  • good communication skills in oral and written English.

This is what we offer you

We offer a temporary employment contract for 38 hours per week for a period of 24 months, with a probationary period of 12 months. The preferred starting date is Autumn 2026, but earlier or later can be discussed. The gross monthly salary, based on 38 hours per week and dependent on relevant experience, ranges between € 3,546 to € 5,538 (Scale 10). This does not include 8% holiday allowance and 8,3% year-end allowance. The UFO profile Researcher is applicable. A favourable tax agreement, the ‘30% ruling’, may apply to non-Dutch applicants. The Collective Labour Agreement of Universities of the Netherlands is applicable.

All about this vacancy

This is what you will do

You will further develop our quantum simulation/computing approach. This includes experimental work with the tweezer machine, such as debugging and data taking, designing and constructing upgrades to the machines, data analysis, literature research, article writing, and contributing to the acquisition of funding. We ask you to become independent by taking initiative and developing your own creative ideas. You will also take an active role in group activities, such as master and PhD student education, presentation of your work, maintenance of lab organization, and societal and stakeholder outreach.

What we ask of you

We are looking for someone who is excited about pushing novel types of ultracold atom experiments to new realms of AMO physics. You also should have:

  • a recent PhD in experimental ultracold atom or trapped ion physics.
  • great team working skills.
  • initiative and good management skills.
  • good communication skills in oral and written English.

This is what we offer you

We offer a temporary employment contract for 38 hours per week for a period of 24 months, with a probationary period of 12 months. The preferred starting date is Autumn 2026, but earlier or later can be discussed. The gross monthly salary, based on 38 hours per week and dependent on relevant experience, ranges between € 3,546 to € 5,538 (Scale 10). This does not include 8% holiday allowance and 8,3% year-end allowance. The UFO profile Researcher is applicable. A favourable tax agreement, the ‘30% ruling’, may apply to non-Dutch applicants. The Collective Labour Agreement of Universities of the Netherlands is applicable.

Your place at the UvA

You will work in this team

The Faculty of Science has a student body of around 8,000, as well as 1,800 members of staff working in education, research or support services. Researchers and students at the Faculty of Science are fascinated by every aspect of how the world works, be it elementary particles, the birth of the universe or the functioning of the brain.

The Institute of Physics (IoP) of the Faculty of Science combines the Van der Waals-Zeeman Institute (WZI), the Institute of Theoretical Physics (ITFA) and the Institute for High Energy Physics (IHEF) and is one of the large research institutes of the Faculty of Science at the University of Amsterdam. The Van der Waals - Zeeman Institute for Experimental Physics (IoP-WZI) is part of the IoP and home to three research clusters: Quantum Gases & Quantum Information (QG&QI), Quantum Materials (QMat), and Soft Matter (SM).

You will work in the Strontium Quantum Gases Group, part of the QG&QI cluster and headed by Prof. Dr. Florian Schreck. We exploit ultracold Sr gases for quantum sensing, the study of many-body physics and for quantum computing. We explore new ways to build sensors, such as superradiant clocks and collaborate with industry, startups and users to bring quantum technology to the market. This project is embedded in the Quantum Delta NL Ultracold Atom Quantum Sensing Testbed, which will allow you to contribute to many interesting projects related to clocks, such as creating a European optical time and frequency distribution network, or building an industry prototype of an optical clock. Our group is furthermore exploring continuously operating atom interferometers, quantum simulation experiments using Rb-Sr mixtures, single Sr atoms in optical tweezer arrays and improved ways to build optics. Your project will profit from synergy with all these activities.

More about the UvA

The University of Amsterdam is ambitious, creative and committed. An inspiration to students since 1632, a vanguard player in international science and a partner in innovation.
The University of Amsterdam is the largest university in the Netherlands, with the broadest range of courses on offer. An intellectual hub with 42,000 students, 6,000 staff and 3,000 PhD students. Connected by a culture of curiosity.

Your place at the UvA

This is where you will be working

You will work in this team

The Faculty of Science has a student body of around 8,000, as well as 1,800 members of staff working in education, research or support services. Researchers and students at the Faculty of Science are fascinated by every aspect of how the world works, be it elementary particles, the birth of the universe or the functioning of the brain.

The Institute of Physics (IoP) of the Faculty of Science combines the Van der Waals-Zeeman Institute (WZI), the Institute of Theoretical Physics (ITFA) and the Institute for High Energy Physics (IHEF) and is one of the large research institutes of the Faculty of Science at the University of Amsterdam. The Van der Waals - Zeeman Institute for Experimental Physics (IoP-WZI) is part of the IoP and home to three research clusters: Quantum Gases & Quantum Information (QG&QI), Quantum Materials (QMat), and Soft Matter (SM).

You will work in the Strontium Quantum Gases Group, part of the QG&QI cluster and headed by Prof. Dr. Florian Schreck. We exploit ultracold Sr gases for quantum sensing, the study of many-body physics and for quantum computing. We explore new ways to build sensors, such as superradiant clocks and collaborate with industry, startups and users to bring quantum technology to the market. This project is embedded in the Quantum Delta NL Ultracold Atom Quantum Sensing Testbed, which will allow you to contribute to many interesting projects related to clocks, such as creating a European optical time and frequency distribution network, or building an industry prototype of an optical clock. Our group is furthermore exploring continuously operating atom interferometers, quantum simulation experiments using Rb-Sr mixtures, single Sr atoms in optical tweezer arrays and improved ways to build optics. Your project will profit from synergy with all these activities.

More about the UvA

The University of Amsterdam is ambitious, creative and committed. An inspiration to students since 1632, a vanguard player in international science and a partner in innovation.
The University of Amsterdam is the largest university in the Netherlands, with the broadest range of courses on offer. An intellectual hub with 42,000 students, 6,000 staff and 3,000 PhD students. Connected by a culture of curiosity.

Important to know

Your application & contact

If you feel the profile fits you, and you are interested in the job, we look forward to receiving your application. You can apply online via the button. We accept applications until the position has been filled.

Do you have any questions or do you require additional information? Please contact:

Applications should include the following information (all files besides your cv should be submitted in one single pdf file):

  • a detailed CV including the months (not just years) when referring to your education and work experience;
  • a letter of motivation;
  • a list of publications;
  • the names and email addresses of two references who can provide letters of recommendation.

A knowledge security check can be part of the selection procedure (for details: national knowledge security guidelines).

Diversity, Equity & Inclusion

As an employer, the UvA maintains an equal opportunities policy. We value diversity and are fully committed to being a place where everyone feels at home. We nurture inquisitive minds and perseverance and allow room for persistent questioning. With us, curiosity and creativity are the prevailing culture.
Read more
Studies show that women and members of underrepresented groups only apply for jobs if they meet 100% of the qualifications. Do you meet the educational requirements but not yet all of the requested experience? The UvA encourages you to apply anyway.

Important to know

Your application & contact

If you feel the profile fits you, and you are interested in the job, we look forward to receiving your application. You can apply online via the button. We accept applications until the position has been filled.

Do you have any questions or do you require additional information? Please contact:

Applications should include the following information (all files besides your cv should be submitted in one single pdf file):

  • a detailed CV including the months (not just years) when referring to your education and work experience;
  • a letter of motivation;
  • a list of publications;
  • the names and email addresses of two references who can provide letters of recommendation.

A knowledge security check can be part of the selection procedure (for details: national knowledge security guidelines).

As an employer, the UvA maintains an equal opportunities policy. We value diversity and are fully committed to being a place where everyone feels at home. We nurture inquisitive minds and perseverance and allow room for persistent questioning. With us, curiosity and creativity are the prevailing culture.
Studies show that women and members of underrepresented groups only apply for jobs if they meet 100% of the qualifications. Do you meet the educational requirements but not yet all of the requested experience? The UvA encourages you to apply anyway.

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