Doctoral candidate physics, electrical engineering, superconducting quantum technology (25-194-2B)

Doctoral candidate physics, electrical engineering, superconducting quantum technology (25-194-2B)

Join to apply for the Doctoral candidate physics, electrical engineering, superconducting quantum technology (25-194-2B) role at Physikalisch-Technische Bundesanstalt, PTB

Release: 1 week ago. Be among the first 25 applicants.

The art of measurement — made in Germany. Striving to perfect it is the mission of the 2,100 employees of PTB, the Physikalisch-Technische Bundesanstalt. As Germany’s national metrology institute and a leading center of research, we operate in an international environment to develop world‑class measurement standards. We at PTB work to ensure that people and organizations can trust the measurements they use.

At our Braunschweig site, we are looking to fill the following position in Department 2.4 "Quantum Electronics" in cooperation with Department 4.5 "Applied Radiometry":

Remuneration Group 13 TVöD Bund • Three‑year fixed term • Part‑time (33.15 hours/week)

Within a collaborative project of the cluster of excellence "Quantum Frontiers", a fibre link between PTB and Leibniz University in Hanover will be set up as a testbed for efficient quantum key distribution. Within this scope, your task is the development of ultrafast single‑photon detectors based on superconducting nanostrips with the goal of achieving bitrates in the GHz range. You will support the Working Group 4.54 "Laser Radiometry and Quantum Radiometry" and the Department 2.4 "Quantum Electronics" in a joint cooperation with the following activities:

• Process development for depositing thin layers of NbN/NbTiN and their nanostructuring in the PTB cleanroom centre
• Development of new concepts for realizing ultra‑fast detectors, e.g., by suitably combining individual detectors in detector arrays
• Optical and electrical characterization of the manufactured structures and thin films at temperatures below the transition temperature and optimisation of their properties
• Development of low‑noise measurement setups and measurement electronics
• Integration of the detector into the quantum link in cooperation with research groups in Braunschweig and Hanover
• Presentation and publication of scientific results

Your profile:

• You have completed your university studies (German Diplom or Master’s) in physics, electrical engineering or a comparable subject and have obtained at least the grade good
• Practical experiences in thin‑layer technologies, nanostructuring, optics, and cryogenic experiments are advantageous
• Programming experience, ideally in Python
• Experimental and analytical skills
• High level of commitment, ability to work independently, and willingness to learn
• Strong teamwork and communication skills
• German (B1 level) and English (B2 level) language skills
• Willingness to travel domestically and internationally
• Fitness for working in a clean room centre is required

We offer: You can find an overview of our benefits on our careers page.

This is important to us:

PTB promotes gender equality and strongly encourages applications from female candidates. At the same time, we strive to reflect the diversity of our society. We therefore welcome every application submitted, regardless of the candidate’s gender, cultural or social background, religion, ideology or sexual identity. If equally suited to the position, disabled persons or persons having equivalent status under German law will be given preference.

Your application:

For subject‑related questions concerning this position, please contact Dr. Sebastian Raupach, phone: +49 531 592‑4143, email:

We look forward to receiving your application by 10 November 2025 under reference number 25‑194‑2B. Please use the "ONLINE BEWERBEN" button at the end – this will take you directly to our application portal, where you can upload your documents (CV, certificates, letter of motivation). We cannot consider applications sent by e‑mail. With your application you accept the data protection regulations.

Seniority level

• Entry level

Employment type

• Temporary

Job function

• Research
• Research (Industries)

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