About the opportunity
Advanced light-based quantum technologies require advanced photonic components with complexities in techniques, design and material composition. In this PhD project you will combine nanofabrication, material science with principles of integrated photonic circuits to fabricate devices for light-based quantum computing systems controlling photonic and neutral atom qubit operations. The development of this type of technology is crucial for the next generation of quantum operation and has great commercial interest. The skills and experience acquired during the scholarship will make you highly valuable for the semiconductor industry, and especially in the rapidly growing field of quantum technologies and data communication. The project with be closely connected to the qubit pilot lines at the Novo Nordisk Foundation Quantum Computing Project (NQCP) which provides material stacks and design guidance.
Salary and benefits
- Employment based on the collective agreement with the Danish Confederation of Professional Associations
- Competitive salary and appointment terms based on DTU's salary structure for scientific staff
- 3-year period of employment
- An international, rewarding and challenging work environment with academic freedom
Who can apply?
- Must have a two-year master's degree (120 ECTS points) or a similar degree with an academic level equivalent to a two-year master's degree (applicants may apply prior to obtaining their master's degree but cannot begin before having received it)
- Prior experience in material science, semiconductor process engineering and/or photon integrated circuit fabrication
- Must have experience with semiconductor fabrication processes/tools and working in a clean room facility
- Preferred: experience in developing dry or wet etch processes for microchip fabrication
- Optional: general understanding of Photonic Waveguides, Photon Integrated Circuits, especially used for optical modulation
- Must be fluent in written and spoken English
Required documents
- A letter motivating the application (cover letter)
- Curriculum vitae
- Grade transcripts and BSc/MSc diploma (in English) including official description of grading scale
- All materials must be combined and submitted as one PDF file in English
When to apply
- Posted on 18 August 2026
- Complete online application must be submitted no later than 13 September 2026 (23:59 Danish time)
How to apply
- Open the link 'Apply now'
- Fill out the online application form
- Attach all materials in English in one PDF file containing your cover letter, CV, and grade transcripts/diplomas
Additional information
- Appointment will be subject to receipt of a security clearance.
- Open-source background checks may be conducted on qualified candidates due to research in critical technology subject to special rules for security and export control.
- The assessment of the applicants will be made by Radu Malureanu, Stefan Schäffer and Stefano Paesani.
Our Take on This Opportunity
This section reflects Open Opportunities’ own analysis of the opportunity from an applicant’s perspective.
You may be a strong fit if…
- Master's degree holders with experience in semiconductor process engineering or photonics
- Individuals with practical clean room and nanofabrication tool experience
- Candidates interested in the rapidly growing field of quantum computing and data communication
What should you think carefully about?
- The role is strictly on-site in Kgs. Lyngby
- Appointment is subject to a security clearance and potential background checks
- The position is a fixed 3-year PhD scholarship
How could this fit your current goals and plans?
This PhD project is ideal for those seeking to gain highly marketable skills in nanofabrication and quantum device technology. By working with the Novo Nordisk Foundation Quantum Computing Project, the candidate will gain exposure to industry-relevant pilot lines, making this a strong stepping stone for a career in the semiconductor industry.
Our take
Students with hands-on clean room experience who are eager to contribute to quantum hardware development should apply; those without a background in semiconductor fabrication may find the technical requirements challenging.
Ready to apply?
Review the opportunity on the official website before applying.
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