Project description
This project is funded by the Quantum Delta NL growth fund and addresses some of the challenges in the construction of a national quantum network. It will explore the use of quantum emitters in 2D van der Waals materials like hexagonal boron nitride (hBN), as alternative to the NV-centers in diamond that are currently used. And it will study and optimize the use of optical cavities to boost the performance of these emitters. The project is curiosity driven but could result in better components for the quantum internet, with prospects to increase the communication rates by orders of magnitude.

The motivation for this research is based on the following logical line of reasoning: (i) optical cavities are essential for the quantum internet, (ii) alternative emitters are badly needed, and (iii) quantum emitters in 2D materials, like hBN, are promising candidates that deserve further investigation. By combining optical microcavities and rf control at cryogenic temperature with new quantum emitters, we expect to develop useful tools for the quantum internet and discover new quantum science.

Key responsibilities

• Design, fabricate and test new designs for stable cryogenic microcavities
• Optimize the use of single 2D quantum emitters in optical microcavities, including ODMR (optically-detected magnetic resonance) control of their spin level
• Publish academic papers and present at academic conferences;
• Communicating closely and effectively with the team members;
• Assist with teaching and student supervision;
• Complete a PhD thesis within four years (1.0 FTE).

The PhD candidate will work closely together with the PI and other group members, building a new experimental setup for a stable cryogenic microcavity and comparing its performance with other systems studied worldwide. The candidate will carry responsibility for the research goals within the project.

Selection Criteria

• Research Master, MSc or similar in (experimental) Physics or equivalent
• Sufficient knowledge of optics and quantum mechanics
• Excellent command of the English language coupled with excellent communication skills;
• Well- developed analytic and organisational skills;
• Excellent social skills in order to be able to work in a team environment.

Terms and conditions
We offer a full-time 4 year fixed-term PhD position with a flexible starting-date. Salary range from €2770,- tot €3539,- gross per month (pay scale P in accordance with the Collective Labour Agreement for Dutch Universities).

Leiden University offers an attractive benefits package with additional holiday (8%) and end-of-year bonuses(8.3 %), training and career development and sabbatical leave. Our individual choices model gives you some freedom to assemble your own set of terms and conditions. Candidates from outside the Netherlands may be eligible for a substantial tax break.

Leiden University is strongly committed to diversity within its community and especially welcomes applications from members of underrepresented groups.

Research at our faculty
The Faculty of Science is a world-class faculty where staff and students work together in a dynamic international environment. It is a faculty where personal and academic development are top priorities. Our people are committed to expand fundamental knowledge by curiosity and to look beyond the borders of their own discipline; their aim is to benefit science, and to make a contribution to addressing the major societal challenges of the future.

The research carried out at the Faculty of Science is very diverse, ranging from mathematics, information science, astronomy, physics, chemistry and bio-pharmaceutical sciences to biology and environmental sciences. The research activities are organised in eight institutes. These institutes offer eight bachelor- and twelve masters programmes. The faculty has grown strongly in recent years and now has more than 2,300 staff and almost 5,000 students. We are located at the heart of Leiden's Bio Science Park, one of Europe's biggest science parks, where university and business life come together.

For more information, see www.universiteitleiden.nl/en/science and https://workingat.leiden.edu/