Researcher (Postdoc) Position with ERC Preparative Fellowship in Quantum Photonics

Researcher (Postdoc) Position with ERC Preparative Fellowship in Quantum Photonics

(salary scale 13 TV-L, 100 %)

Nestled in a modern city surrounded by nature and with an exceptional standard of living, Leibniz University Hannover offers excellent working conditions in a vibrant scientific community.

The Institute for Solid State Physics, Group of Prof. Fei Ding and Michael Zopf, welcomes applications for the following position starting as soon as possible: Researcher (Postdoc) Position with ERC Preparative Fellowship in Quantum Photonics (salary scale 13 TV-L, 100 %)

The fixed-term position is limited to 2 years, with the possibility of extension.

We offer an ERC Preparative Fellowship to support an outstanding early-career researcher in developing an independent research program in semiconductor quantum photonics, with the goal of securing an ERC Starting Grant.

The vision for our group

We are advancing semiconductor quantum photonics to develop scalable quantum networks that operate on-chip and across fiber infrastructures. Our research focuses on quantum light sources, entanglement distribution, and standardized quantum technologies, bridging fundamental science with real-world applications. By driving innovation in secure quantum communication, precision metrology, and next‑generation photonic devices, we aim to bring quantum photonics to life and shape the future of quantum technology.

This fellowship provides optimal conditions to conduct groundbreaking preliminary research, preparing for an ERC Starting Grant application with Leibniz University Hannover as the host institution. Our research group is internationally recognized for semiconductor‑based quantum photonics using quantum dots—solid‑state emitters central to quantum communication. This project focuses on developing advanced nanophotonic devices for long‑distance quantum networks and precision metrology applications, collaborating with leading institutes such as Leibniz University Hannover, PTB, and TU Braunschweig.

Your role and responsibilities

• Establish foundational work for an ERC Starting Grant proposal, refining research objectives and methodology, proposal submission
• Conduct innovative research on semiconductor quantum light sources for quantum networks
• Develop nanophotonic devices with optimized single‑photon properties for quantum communication
• Development and integration of photonic integrated chips (PICs) for quantum light generation and management
• Supervision of students and collaboration with doctoral students in a team
• Engage in international collaborations and writing of scientific publications
• Utilize state‑of‑the‑art quantum photonics infrastructure and experimental techniques

Who are we looking for?

• Completed scientific university degree in physics, electrical engineering or a related field
• Experience in supervising students
• A strong track record in quantum optics, photonic devices, or semiconductor physics is expected
• Experience with quantum light sources, nanophotonics, or quantum networking
• Demonstrated ability for independent research and proposal development
• Good written and spoken English skills

Equal opportunities and diversity are core values at Leibniz University Hannover. Our goal is to tap into individual potential and open up possibilities. We therefore welcome applications from anyone interested in the position, irrespective of gender, nationality, ethnic origin, religion or ideology, disability, age, sexual orientation and identity.

We strive towards a balanced and diverse workforce and a reduction in under‑representation in accordance with the Lower Saxony Equal Rights Act (Niedersächsisches Gleichberechtigungsgesetz – NGG). We therefore also welcome applications from women for the above‑mentioned position. Preference will be given to equally‑qualified candidates with disabilities.

• Full academic support and mentorship in preparing an ERC Starting Grant application
• Attractive salary (salary scale 13 TV-L) and substantial support for consumables, travel, etc.
• Access to leading‑edge quantum research facilities and infrastructure
• Integration into an international and interdisciplinary research network

With more than 5.000 employees, Leibniz University Hannover is one of the largest and most attractive employers in the Hannover region. We offer a vibrant interdisciplinary and international working environment, and promote personal and professional development ranging from subject‑related skills to leadership and languages.

Part‑time employment as well as remote work (mobile work, work from home) can be arranged upon request. We support employees with balancing work and family life, through services such as back‑up childcare, childcare during school holidays, and parent‑child offices, as well as providing individual advice regarding family responsibilities and caring for dependants.

To promote health and well‑being among employees, we offer an extensive sports programme with over 100 different sports, as well as a fitness centre with a sauna and climbing space. Health management measures, such as courses on stress management, good nutrition and relaxation, aim to ensure a healthy workplace.