ETH Zurich Postdoctoral Scholarship for 3-Year Projects on Quantum Networks and Quantum Sensing (2026)

Scholarship Description

The ETH Zurich Postdoctoral Scholarship for 3-Year Projects on Quantum Networks and Quantum Sensing offers a unique opportunity for two experienced researchers to join the Optical Nanomaterial Group in the Physics Department at ETH Zurich. These positions focus on cutting-edge research in thin film lithium niobate (TFLN) photonic integrated circuits for applications in quantum information processing and precision sensing.

Photonic integrated circuits promise advanced functionality for applications such as quantum information processing and precision sensing. TFLN is a maturing photonics platform that can integrate frequency conversion, quantum light sources, and high-speed electro-optic modulation on a single device. The Optical Nanomaterial Group specializes in the nanofabrication and optical characterization of TFLN photonic circuits for applications in nonlinear optics, quantum communications, and quantum sensing.

Two positions are available:

1. Quantum Networks: This project focuses on entangling distant quantum memories using TFLN photonics for sources of non-degenerate entangled photon-pairs — with one photon at the quantum memory wavelength (visible) and the other in the telecom band for long-distance transmission. This position is part of a Switzerland-wide consortium on quantum networks.
2. Quantum Sensing: This project focuses on using TFLN photonics for generating squeezed vacuum for gas sensing applications, where periodically poled waveguides and photon number resolution detection provide a quantum advantage. This position is part of a QuantERA project with Imperial College London, the University of Oxford, and ICFO.

Scholarship Location

The positions are based at ETH Zurich in Zurich, Switzerland, within the Physics Department's Optical Nanomaterial Group. ETH Zurich is one of the world's leading universities for science and technology, located in the heart of Europe.

Scholarship Deadline

Applications must be submitted by 31 July 2026. Only applications submitted through the ETH Zurich online application portal will be considered.

Host Institution

ETH Zurich – one of the world's leading universities specialising in science and technology, consistently ranked among the top universities globally. The Optical Nanomaterial Group in the Physics Department is a world-class research group specialising in nanofabrication, photonics, and quantum technologies.

Level and Fields of Study

Level: Postdoctoral Research (3-year fixed-term positions).

Fields of study: Quantum Networks, Quantum Sensing, Photonic Integrated Circuits, Thin Film Lithium Niobate (TFLN), Nonlinear Optics, Quantum Photonics, Quantum Information, Spontaneous Parametric Down-Conversion, Nanofabrication.

Key responsibilities:

• Background theory, simulation, and design of photonic circuits
• Nanofabrication and optical characterisation of TFLN photonic circuits
• Performing quantum information experiments
• Collaborating with other postdocs and PhD students
• Regular participation in project and group meetings
• Contributing to Switzerland-wide or international consortium collaborations

Target Group

These positions are open to highly qualified Postdoctoral Researchers from all nationalities with experience in integrated photonics, nonlinear optics, quantum photonics, quantum information, and/or spontaneous parametric down-conversion. The ideal candidates are passionate about advancing quantum technologies and working in a collaborative, interdisciplinary environment.

Scholarship Duration & Amount

Duration: 3 years (fixed-term positions).

Salary: Competitive salary according to ETH Zurich standards for postdoctoral researchers (approximately CHF 80,000–100,000 gross per year, depending on experience, with full social benefits).

Benefits include:

• Full social security and pension benefits
• Paid holiday leave
• Public transport season tickets and car sharing
• Wide range of sports offered by the ASVZ
• Childcare support
• Attractive pension benefits
• Opportunity to work on cutting-edge quantum technologies
• Collaboration with leading international research groups (Imperial College London, University of Oxford, ICFO)
• Participation in Switzerland-wide quantum network consortium

Scholarship Eligibility

Required qualifications:

• A PhD in physics, photonics, quantum information, or a related field.
• Experience in one or more of the following areas: integrated photonics, nonlinear optics, quantum photonics, quantum information, spontaneous parametric down-conversion, or nanofabrication.
• Strong background in the theory, simulation, and design of photonic circuits.
• Experience with optical characterisation and quantum optics experiments.
• Ability to work collaboratively in an interdisciplinary research team.
• Good written and spoken English communication skills.

Desirable (not required):

• Experience with thin film lithium niobate (TFLN) or similar photonic platforms.
• Familiarity with quantum networks or quantum sensing applications.
• Nanofabrication experience (e.g., electron beam lithography, etching, deposition).

Application Procedure

1. Prepare required documents – Gather the following:
   • Cover letter – explaining your interest in the position and relevant experience
   • Curriculum Vitae (CV) – detailing your academic background, research experience, publications, and skills
   • Transcripts of BSc and MSc degrees
   • PhD degree certificate
   • Contact information of two referees (no letters are needed at this point)
2. Submit online application – Applications must be submitted exclusively through the ETH Zurich online application portal (job reference JOPG_ethz_TjHEAJOI8dRecXyJlK).
3. Application deadline – Submit by 31 July 2026.
4. Application review – The Optical Nanomaterial Group reviews applications and shortlists candidates.
5. Interviews – Shortlisted candidates are contacted for interviews (likely online).
6. Offer – Successful candidates receive a formal offer from ETH Zurich.

Important notes:

• Applications via email or postal services will not be considered.
• For questions regarding the position, contact Robert Chapman at [email protected] (no applications).
• Target start dates are between October 2026 and January 2027.
• ETH Zurich values diversity and sustainability and encourages applications from all qualified candidates regardless of background.
• Pre-selection is carried out by responsible recruiters, not by artificial intelligence.

Official Website & Application Link

ETH Zurich – Postdoctoral Researchers in Quantum Networks and Quantum Sensing

Optical Nanomaterial Group Website: https://phys.ethz.ch

ETH Zurich Website: https://ethz.ch

Questions: Robert Chapman ([email protected]) – no applications