The aim of the research project “Practical measurement-based quantum computing” is to explore project explores the feasibility and practicality of Measurement-Based Quantum Computing (MBQC), a paradigm distinct from the traditional circuit-based quantum computing model. We will identify its strengths for various applications whilst addressing MBQC's practical limitations . We will implement and scale MBQC on integrated photonic processors and evaluate effects like photon source quality and circuit imperfections. We will expand towards secure quantum computing, specifically leveraging MBQC's unique structure for blind and delegated computation protocols. Join our cutting-edge research team realise photonic quantum computing with integrated photonics:
Use and develop state-of-the-art setups for characterising integrated photonic circuits and photon sources Test circuits, operate them on a single-photon level Create and characterize highly entangled photonic resource states Realise applications in quantum computing
You have:
Interest in collaborative and interdisciplinary research MSc in Physics, or related Experience in experimental quantum optics and (photonic) quantum technologies Programming skills (Python, Mathematica, Matlab, …)
The positions are fixed term and available until filled. The position is funded via the Priority Programme 2514: Quantum Software, Algorithms and Systems (75% TVL E13). For more information: please contact Prof. Dr. Stefanie Barz: barz@fmq.uni-stuttgart.de, www.barzgroup.de
TECHNICAL & MARKET ANALYSIS | Appended by Quantum.Jobs
This research role is structurally necessary to transition photonic quantum computing from fundamental physics demonstrations toward scalable, integrated systems, which is a key technical risk area identified in national quantum strategies. The focus on Measurement-Based Quantum Computing (MBQC) addresses the architectural feasibility of advanced protocols, specifically related to photonics' inherent advantages in distribution and potential for secure computation. This function directly impacts the Technology Readiness Level (TRL) progression of integrated quantum hardware by generating validated data on component imperfections, a crucial step for industrial adoption pathways. Securing expertise in this niche area creates necessary talent pipeline capacity for future commercialization efforts.
The quantum hardware sector is currently characterized by intense competition among diverse physical modalities, where photonic integrated circuits offer a distinct path toward high-throughput processing and networking capabilities, circumventing some cryogenic overheads associated with other qubit types. A major ecosystem challenge is the scalability bottleneck related to perfect single-photon sources and large-scale, low-loss integration on chip. Academic positions such as this one contribute to resolving these core limitations by rigorously quantifying non-idealities, such as photon source quality and circuit imperfections, which directly inform industrial fabrication processes. Furthermore, the project's exploration of delegated and blind quantum computation protocols addresses a significant future market demand in quantum security and cloud-based services, positioning the research at the intersection of fundamental physics and emerging application markets. Public funding cycles, like those in Germany’s Priority Programme, are explicitly designed to foster this translational research capacity, ensuring a sustained pipeline of domain expertise and de-risking the eventual technology transfer from academic labs to commercial product development. Workforce and infrastructure development remain priority areas across the value chain, making specialized doctoral research essential for maintaining national competitive advantage in this field.
The core technical architecture revolves around the precision measurement and manipulation of non-classical light states, particularly high-dimensional entanglement. Capability domains include ultra-sensitive single-photon detection, cryogenic and room-temperature photonic device characterization, and the active control of integrated optical circuits. Expertise in programming languages such as Python or MATLAB is necessary for automated instrument control, complex data acquisition, and post-processing of experimental results related to quantum state tomography and process verification. The reliance on integrated photonics necessitates a deep understanding of chip-level design trade-offs, particularly those affecting loss, phase stability, and scalability when interfacing with external quantum optics setups. These capabilities are critical for benchmarking the performance metrics of Measurement-Based Quantum Computing (MBQC) architectures against theoretical fault-tolerance thresholds and for establishing reliable component libraries for future system integration.
Accelerates validation of integrated quantum hardware platforms
Establishes necessary benchmarks for single-photon source fidelity
De-risks commercial adoption of measurement-based quantum architectures
Contributes fundamental insights into scalable quantum state generation
Quantifies component imperfections necessary for error correction design
Extends the TRL of secure quantum communication protocols
Reduces latency in photonic circuit characterization workflows
Informs future industry standards for chip-to-fiber interfacing
Generates critical talent specializing in quantum-photonic integration
Develops novel methods for entanglement distribution and control
Supports the transition of complex protocols into deployable hardware
Maps practical constraints of blind delegated quantum computation
Industry Tags: Photonic Quantum Computing, Measurement-Based Quantum Computing, Quantum Information Science, Integrated Photonics, Quantum Key Distribution, Quantum Optics, Entangled Photon Sources, Quantum Architecture
Keywords:
NAVIGATIONAL: University of Stuttgart PhD quantum computing, Photonic Quantum Computing doctoral position, Measurement-Based Quantum Computing research, Stefanie Barz research group, Quantum Software Algorithms Systems
TRANSACTIONAL: Applying for PhD in photonic quantum computing, Practical measurement-based quantum computing project, Integrated photonic quantum processors jobs, Experimental quantum optics PhD vacancies
INFORMATIONAL: Feasibility of measurement-based quantum computing, Research on secure delegated quantum computation, Integrated photonics quantum scaling challenges, Photonic quantum system TRL progression
COMMERCIAL INVESTIGATION: Future of integrated photonic quantum hardware, Applications of blind quantum computation protocols, Evaluating quantum computer architectural paradigms
