Toshiba Europe Ltd have been at the forefront of research in quantum technology, particularly quantum communications and semiconductor quantum devices for the past two decades. During this time, they have made many breakthroughs, such as the first single and entangled photon LEDs, and the first GHz operation of 1550nm single photon avalanche diodes.
We are inviting applications to join our experienced team to research and develop quantum optical systems for the quantum internet. The successful applicant will develop and characterise deployable systems to generate single and entangled photons, and interface them with fibre‑optic networks for secure sharing of quantum information. The role will require a fundamental understanding of quantum light sources and light-matter interaction, and will involve specification and integration of the optical, electrical and mechanical components required to create novel experimental demonstrator systems.
Responsibilities:
- Characterization of photon sources
- Development of experimental quantum optical applications
- Specification of optical, electrical and mechanical components and system assembly
- Development of software for experimental controls
- Build and maintain high-performance experimental setups
- Engagement with academic and industrial partners, and dissemination through scientific publications
- Working as part of a team, and with partners in academia and industry
Essential requirements:
- PhD in Physics, Electrical Engineering, or a related discipline
- Proven hands-on experience in quantum optics or related field
- Track record of impactful research
- Experience in assembly and control of complex experimental systems
- Good knowledge of computer control programming environments, e.g., LabVIEW/Python
- Capability of both creative, independent work and working within an interactive team.
- Desire to acquire new skills and work with new technologies
Desirable requirements:
- Knowledge of electronic circuit design, assembly and testing
- Experience with cryogenic or high vacuum technology
- Experience with imaging, microscopy, spectroscopy, and fibre optic systems
TECHNICAL & MARKET ANALYSIS | Appended by Quantum.Jobs
Research in quantum optical systems is structurally essential for the transition of quantum communication from laboratory demonstrations to robust, field-deployable infrastructure. This role type bridges the current technology readiness level gap by advancing the generation and characterization of single and entangled photons for integration into fiber-optic networks. By optimizing these light-matter interactions, these functions directly influence the viability of the quantum internet and the development of tap-proof communication channels. Market signals indicate that the scalability of these architectures is currently gated by the deterministic control and stability of quantum light sources, making such specialized research a critical determinant of future network interoperability. Workforce development in this high-complexity hardware domain remains a pivotal bottleneck for the global quantum value chain as it moves toward standardized, high-performance experimental demonstrator systems.
The quantum communication and networking sector is positioned as a primary frontier within the global quantum value chain, characterized by a transition from theoretical physics to engineering-led deployment. However, the ecosystem faces significant macro constraints, primarily centered on photon loss, decoherence, and the integration of quantum hardware with existing classical telecommunications infrastructure. The shift from physical experiments to logical, networked systems necessitates accelerated research into high-brightness emitters and ultra-sensitive detection systems. This integration is vital for establishing the "quantum-ready" infrastructure required for secure global data transmission.
Current industry dynamics show an increasing focus on quantum key distribution and the foundational components of a quantum internet. This requires a shift from isolated, bulk-optic setups to integrated, modular systems that can survive real-world conditions like temperature shifts and signal dispersion in metropolitan fiber paths. Public and private funding cycles are increasingly focused on these translation pathways, aiming to move beyond fundamental breakthroughs into system-level performance that can support critical infrastructure in finance, defense, and government.
As the market moves toward early-stage commercialization, the availability of interdisciplinary talent capable of navigating the interface between quantum optics, electrical engineering, and mechanical system design is a critical success factor. The field is currently characterized by a maturation driven by tri-sector collaboration between academia, government, and industry. Sustained progress in this area is expected to mirror the historical development of classical microelectronics, requiring long-term investment in both hardware stability and specialized workforce pipelines.
Capability domains for this role type center on the intersection of quantum light source dynamics, coherent optical control, and high-performance system assembly. Mastery of single-photon generation and characterization is critical for ensuring the indistinguishability and entanglement fidelity required for secure quantum information transfer. These capabilities enable the structural transition from laboratory prototypes to deployable systems, which is the primary mechanism for establishing trust and reliability in quantum networks. Furthermore, expertise in computer-controlled experimental environments provides the necessary leverage to improve system throughput and reproducibility, a prerequisite for scaling quantum architectures. This technical architecture facilitates the cross-functional coupling between fundamental semiconductor physics and the engineering of scalable quantum processing sub-systems.
Accelerates the progression of quantum light sources toward higher technology readiness levels
Establishes benchmark protocols for the characterization of high-fidelity photon emitters
Reduces the performance gap between laboratory demonstrators and industrialized quantum networks
Drives the integration of quantum optical systems into standardized telecommunications fiber
Mitigates hardware scalability bottlenecks by optimizing deterministic photon generation and detection
Strengthens the quantum communication supply chain through improved source reliability
Enhances the operational stability of quantum links within hybrid classical-quantum workflows
Shortens development cycles for complex experimental setups through advanced control software
Facilitates the transition toward a functional quantum internet via scalable networking protocols
Improves system-level security by minimizing decoherence in entangled photon pairs
Supports the standardization of sub-component requirements for the global quantum photonics market
Advances the commercial viability of secure key exchange through high-performance optical systems
Industry Tags: Quantum Communication, Quantum Optics, Quantum Internet, Photonics, Quantum Key Distribution, Semiconductor Quantum Devices, Quantum Hardware, Telecommunications Infrastructure
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