The Adolphe Merkle Institute’s Quantum Sensing & Spin Chemistry Group (Assistant Prof. John Abendroth) invites applications for an ERC-funded PhD position on “Quantum Sensing of Chiral-Induced Spin Selectivity.”
Project: The project focuses on measuring and understanding the behavior of electron spin pairs in chiral molecules created by light using diamond-based quantum sensors.
Spin dynamics of these radical pairs are central both in biology and for quantum information science applications. Chiral-induced spin selectivity (CISS), which describes spin-dependent interactions in chiral molecules, can influence polarization and coherence of the radical pairs. The goal of this project is to use fluorescent nitrogen-vacancy (NV) centers in diamond to probe these spin properties and the influence of CISS at the single-molecule level.
The successful candidate will take part in the construction of custom-built instrumentation for confocal microscopy, carry out optically detected magnetic resonance experiments with single-spin quantum sensors, and perform accompanying spin dynamics simulations. The project includes opportunities to present results at international conferences, publish in leading journals, and mentor Masters-level projects.
Requirements: Applicants must hold a Master’s degree in Physics, Physical Chemistry, Electrical Engineering, or a related field and wish to pursue interdisciplinary research in a fast-moving international environment. Experience in quantum engineering or magnetic resonance spectroscopy (NMR/EPR techniques) will be of advantage. Experience with optics and/or high-frequency electronics is especially valued. Programming skills for data acquisition and analysis are highly desirable. The ability to advance a complex project independently and as part of a team, excellent communication skills, and proficiency in English are essential.
We offer: AMI offers attractive employment conditions, a highly collaborative research environment, and outstanding infrastructure in a state-of-the-art research facility. The institute is committed to diversity, equity, inclusion, and respect, and provides equal opportunities for all its members. We welcome applications from all qualified candidates.
TECHNICAL & MARKET ANALYSIS | Appended by Quantum.Jobs
The evolution of quantum sensing modalities from theoretical frameworks to high-fidelity diagnostic tools is a structural requirement for the maturation of the global quantum value chain. This role type addresses the critical interface between spin chemistry and solid-state physics, focusing on the empirical validation of quantum phenomena like chiral-induced spin selectivity at the single-molecule level. By utilizing nitrogen-vacancy centers in diamond, such research functions enable the transition of deep-tech breakthroughs into standardized metrology and bio-nanotechnology applications. Market signals from international quantum roadmaps suggest that resolving signal-to-noise and decoherence bottlenecks at this scale is essential for industrial-grade quantum sensing. Consequently, this role facilitates the development of the "sensing and metrology" layer, which is becoming increasingly interdependent with life sciences and advanced material engineering.
Within the quantum ecosystem, the research domain centered on nitrogen-vacancy (NV) centers and spin dynamics occupies a pivotal position in the early-stage technology development phase. Current industry focus lies on bridging classical and quantum capabilities at scale, particularly where high-sensitivity sensors can provide disruptive advantages in medical diagnostics and molecular biology. The integration of quantum sensors into existing diagnostic toolchains represents a significant move toward commercial viability, yet this progress is often constrained by the complexity of room-temperature quantum control and the need for precision instrumentation.
Macro-level analysis indicates that the sensing sector is currently more mature than quantum computing in terms of near-term deployments, particularly in localized, high-resolution applications. However, a persistent technology readiness level (TRL) mismatch exists between isolated laboratory demonstrations and the standardized, scalable hardware required for broad industrial adoption. To overcome these barriers, the ecosystem requires specialized talent capable of conducting interdisciplinary research that merges quantum engineering with magnetic resonance spectroscopy and high-frequency electronics.
Furthermore, public and private funding cycles are increasingly prioritizing "quantum-to-market" translation pathways. This shift necessitates a workforce capable of not only advancing fundamental science but also developing the custom-built confocal microscopy and simulation frameworks required for system integration. As international research infrastructures expand, the ability to validate theoretical spin chemistry models through empirical, single-spin measurements will dictate the pace at which quantum sensing penetrates the broader global economy, especially within the European deep-tech corridor.
The capability architecture for this role type is built upon the integration of quantum optics, magnetic resonance, and advanced spin dynamics simulations. Mastery of nitrogen-vacancy (NV) center manipulation is fundamental for ensuring high-fidelity data acquisition at the nanoscale, which is critical for the throughput of quantum sensing research. This technical proficiency must interface with custom-built instrumentation layers, such as confocal microscopy and high-frequency electronics, to enable stable and reproducible measurements of molecular spin properties.
These capabilities are essential for the structural development of quantum platforms, as they provide the high-resolution diagnostic data needed to refine hardware designs and mitigate decoherence. The alignment of experimental magnetic resonance techniques with computational simulations ensures that empirical results can be validated against theoretical models, reducing the risk of systemic error in complex quantum systems. Furthermore, the ability to operate at the intersection of physical chemistry and electrical engineering facilitates cross-functional coupling, which is vital for the eventual miniaturization and commercialization of solid-state quantum sensors in diverse sectors like material science and healthcare.
Accelerates the deterministic progression of technology readiness levels for diamond-based quantum sensing applications
Mitigates systemic risks in deep-tech development by providing empirical validation for theoretical spin chemistry models
Facilitates the transition from laboratory-scale experiments to standardized high-resolution diagnostic toolchains
Reduces iteration friction in bio-nanotechnology research through the integration of high-sensitivity quantum metrology
Strengthens the competitive positioning of the sensing and metrology layer within the global quantum value chain
Harmonizes fundamental research in spin dynamics with the practical requirements of industrial-grade quantum sensors
Optimizes the development of custom-built instrumentation for high-fidelity single-molecule measurements
Supports the scaling of quantum technology by addressing critical signal-to-noise bottlenecks in solid-state platforms
Shortens the development lifecycle of quantum-enhanced diagnostic tools for the life sciences sector
Improves the reliability of multi-disciplinary research initiatives through standardized optically detected magnetic resonance protocols
Protects capital-intensive investments in quantum infrastructure by providing expert technical validation of spin properties
Enables the strategic orchestration of research efforts across international networks of academic and industrial partners
Industry Tags: Quantum Sensing, Nitrogen-Vacancy Centers, Spin Chemistry, Quantum Metrology, Diamond-Based Sensors, Spin Dynamics, Deep-Tech Research, Quantum Engineering, Bio-Nanotechnology
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