PhD Position - Spectroscopy of Quantum Emitters Graduate Teaching Assistant (must hold a Diploma/Master's degree) for a 35-hour/week (part-time), four-year position
Organizational unit: Abteilung für Licht-Materie-Wechselwirkung Entry date: 07/01/2026 Term from 07/01/2026 Temporary employment to: 06/30/2030 Job Reference Number: 32230-2026-001939 The Division for Light-Matter Interaction at the Institute of Semiconductor and Solid State Physics is looking for a doctoral researcher in the field of quantum optical science and technologies. The group is performing experiments in the fields of single emitter spectroscopy, atomic vapors, integrated quantum optics, levitated nanoparticles, metasurfaces, and quantum sensing. In this newly established division, we seek a highly motivated researcher interested in the area of the advanced spectroscopy of novel quantum emitters. In this research project, the properties of novel quantum emitters are researched with the goal of understanding their dynamics. For this, a microscope system is developed and when the emitters are understood, they will be the basis for building integrated quantum devices. The position comes with the possibility of writing a PhD thesis. Work will take place in our newly established optics labs with additional access to a state-of-the-art clean room at the Open Innovation Center. Job Duties:
Research activities in the field of spectroscopy of quantum emitters Participation in setting up quantum optical laboratories Writing of scientific publications Participation in teaching activities Guidance of bachelor and master students Participation in outreach activities Participation in scientific conferences
Your Qualifications:
The successful candidate must hold a Diploma/Master degree in physics or equivalent university studies Knowledge in quantum optics Experience in quantum science and technology or a related research area Good communication skills Strong problem-solving skills Good English language skills - Level B2 (German is a plus)
What We Offer:
On the basis of full-time employment (40 hours/week) the minimum salary in accordance with the collective agreement is € 3,776.10 gross per month (14 x per year, CA Job Grade: B1) Stable employer Attractive campus environment with good public transportation connections Attractive continual educational opportunities State-of-the-art research infrastructure Dynamic research environment Broad range of on-campus dining services/healthy meals (organic food at the cafeteria) Exercise and sports classes (USI) …and much more
Application due date: 06/17/2026 The Johannes Kepler University wishes to increase the proportion of academic female faculty and, for this reason, especially welcomes applications by qualified women. If applicants are equally qualified, a woman will be given preference for this position. The university welcomes applications from qualified applicants with disabilities. These applications will be given special consideration.Space for your future? We look forward to receiving your application via our job portal. For further information, please contact: Univ. Prof. Dr. Andreas Schell, P +43 732 2468 9606, E-mail: andreas.schell@jku.at. Location: Altenberger Straße 69, 4040 Linz
TECHNICAL & MARKET ANALYSIS | Appended by Quantum.Jobs
The structural evolution of quantum information science necessitates a specialized tier of doctoral researchers focused on the empirical characterization of light-matter interactions. As the global quantum ecosystem transitions from theoretical proof-of-concepts to the development of integrated photonic circuits, the role of a researcher in quantum emitter spectroscopy serves as a critical bridge between fundamental semiconductor physics and scalable hardware. This function addresses a significant bottleneck in the hardware stack: the deterministic generation and control of high-fidelity single photons. By investigating the dynamics of novel emitters, this role facilitates the translation of quantum optical phenomena into stable components for sensing and communication networks. Market signals indicate that the ability to bridge these domains is a primary determinant for the long-term viability of photon-based quantum architectures.
The quantum technology sector is currently navigating a period of rapid architectural diversification, where integrated quantum photonics has emerged as a front-runner for achieving scalable quantum utility. Within this environment, the development of high-performance quantum light sources represents a foundational requirement for both quantum communication and optical computing. However, a persistent technology readiness level (TRL) mismatch exists between isolated laboratory demonstrations of single-photon emitters and the stringent requirements for chip-scale integration. Addressing this gap requires a deep integration of spectroscopy, materials science, and nanofabrication to ensure that emitter dynamics remain consistent within complex, multi-component environments.
Macro-level analysis of the global quantum workforce reveals a critical shortage of talent capable of navigating the interface between experimental optics and solid-state physics. As national quantum strategies in Europe and North America prioritize the development of sovereign quantum infrastructure, the role of academic research centers, such as JKU Linz, becomes pivotal in building the early-stage talent pipeline. This transition is characterized by a shift toward collaborative, cross-functional labs that combine traditional academic inquiry with access to industrial-grade cleanroom facilities and open innovation centers.
Furthermore, the integration of metasurfaces and levitated nanoparticles into quantum sensing workflows highlights a move toward more versatile and robust characterization tools. This trend favors the development of researchers who can not only perform high-resolution spectroscopy but also contribute to the design of the next generation of integrated quantum devices. As public funding continues to exceed private investment in the emerging deep-tech landscape, these research functions remain essential for de-risking high-capital infrastructure projects and establishing the fundamental metrics for hardware performance and reliability.
The capability architecture for this role type centers on the mastery of advanced spectroscopic modalities and their application to low-dimensional quantum systems. At the foundational layer, proficiency in resonant photoluminescence and time-resolved characterization is essential for mapping the coherence and indistinguishability of emitted photons. This technical domain is increasingly coupled with the design of integrated optical interfaces, where emitters are embedded in metasurfaces or photonic crystals to enhance extraction efficiency. These capabilities are critical for the structural throughput of quantum research, as they directly influence the stability and accuracy of quantum sensors and repeaters. Beyond experimental execution, the role facilitates a high-level coupling between fundamental physics and the engineering of interoperable quantum subsystems. By developing automated microscopy systems and characterization protocols, these researchers enable a level of reproducibility that allows for the scaling of quantum devices from single nodes to complex networks. This strategic alignment is vital for maintaining the integrity of the technology stack as hardware matures toward industrial-grade utility.
Accelerates the deterministic progression of technology readiness levels for integrated photonic quantum devices
Mitigates systemic risks in the quantum hardware supply chain by identifying stable, high-fidelity light sources
Facilitates the transition from lab-scale spectroscopy to standardized on-chip quantum characterization protocols
Reduces iteration friction in the development of quantum-enhanced sensors through precise emitter dynamics modeling
Strengthens the long-term competitive positioning of the photonics sector by securing rare expertise in light-matter interaction
Harmonizes fundamental semiconductor research with the practical requirements of scalable quantum networking
Optimizes the lifecycle of quantum emitters through advanced spectroscopic benchmarking and environmental stability testing
Supports the scaling of quantum communication by developing reliable interfaces for single-photon generation
Shortens the time-to-market for integrated quantum devices by aligning emitter research with nanofabrication roadmaps
Improves the reliability of multi-disciplinary research initiatives through the application of rigorous experimental standards
Protects capital-intensive investments in cleanroom infrastructure by providing expert validation of novel quantum materials
Enables the strategic orchestration of research efforts across global academic and industrial quantum networks
Industry Tags: Quantum Photonics, Single Emitter Spectroscopy, Integrated Quantum Optics, Quantum Sensing, Light-Matter Interaction, Semiconductor Physics, Nanophotonics, Quantum Information Science
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