Position Summary
Position:
Department:
Quantum Electronics (Department 2.4)
Institute:
Physikalisch-Technische Bundesanstalt (PTB)
Country:
Germany
Research Field:
physics, engineering, superconducting microwave amplifier
Posted Date:
Dec 17, 2025
Deadline:
Jan 27, 2026
Offer Period:
2 Years
Offer Start Date:
NA
Doctoral candidate or Postdoctoral researcher
Project Description:
- 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):
- Doctoral candidate or Postdoctoral researcher; specializing in physics, engineering, superconducting microwave amplifier
Department 2.4 "Quantum Electronics" focuses on the fabrication and characterisation of superconducting quantum circuits. A clean room centre (RRZ) with extensive thin-film technology and corresponding setups for cryogenic low- and high-frequency measurements is available for these tasks. As part of a national research project, we are looking for you to continue our successful activities on travelling-wave parametric amplifiers. For the project you will build on existing expertise of the department.
Your activities will include:
- Design of superconducting quantum electronic circuits for GHz frequencies using numerical and finite element simulations
- Layout and fabrication of superconducting circuits with Josephson junctions in niobium and aluminium technology
- Electronic characterisation of the circuits in liquid helium at 4 Kelvin and in a dilution cryostat at mK temperatures
- Optimization of the measurement setups in terms of hardware (incl. mK sample holder) and software (based on Python)
- Presentation and publication of the scientific results
Required Qualification:
Essential Qualification:
- Completed university degree (Master) in physics, electrical engineering or a comparable field with a good degree
- For postdoctoral applications, a corresponding doctorate with at least a "very good" degree is required
- Practical experience in the handling of cryogenic setups incl. corresponding low-temperature measurement technology (DC and RF)
Preferred Qualification:
- Practical experience in the fabrication of superconducting circuits, especially related to Josephson junctions in niobium or aluminium technology is an advantage
- Experience in FEM simulation of RF circuits (e.g., Ansys HFSS/Q3D, CST, Comsol, Sonnet) as well as with circuit simulators in the time domain (SPICE) or frequency domain ('harmonic-balance') is an advantage
- In-depth knowledge and experience with superconducting parametric amplifiers is an advantage
- Physical aptitude for working in a clean room and cryogenic laboratory is a prerequisite
- Physical aptitude for working in a clean room and cryogenic laboratory is a prerequisite
Employment Conditions and Benefits:
Contract duration:
Doctoral candidates:
- Remuneration Group 13 TVöD Bund
- Three-year fixed term
- Part-time (33.15 hours/week)
- Remuneration Group 13 TVöD Bund
- Two-year fixed term
- Full-time
Benefits:
- You can find an overview of our benefits on our careers page.
Application Process:
Documents Required:
- CV,
- certificates,
- Cover letter
How to apply:
- For subject-related questions concerning this position, please contact Department 2.4:
- Dr. Lukas Grünhaupt, phone: +49 531 592-2420, email: lukas.gruenhaupt@ptb.de.
We look forward to receiving your application by 27 January 2026 under Ref. No.25-239-2B. Please click on the following button: ONLINE BEWERBEN. This will directly lead you to our application portal where you can upload your documents (CV, certificates, Cover letter). Unfortunately, we cannot accept applications sent via email. With your application you accept the data protection regulations.
About the Host Lab Group/Institution:
PTB (Physikalisch-Technische Bundesanstalt) is Germany's National Metrology Institute, a high-level scientific and technical authority responsible for accurate measurement, standards, and safety, serving science, industry, and government. Based in Braunschweig and Berlin, it maintains national standards for physical units, disseminates precise time, conducts cutting-edge research, and ensures quality infrastructure for reliable measurements in technology, trade, and society.
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Frequently Asked Questions:
Who can apply for a postdoctoral position?
Postdoctoral positions are open to candidates who have completed a PhD or will complete their doctoral degree before the start date. Eligibility requirements may vary depending on the funding scheme and host institution.
Can international candidates apply?
Yes. Most postdoctoral positions are open to international applicants. Visa sponsorship and work permit support are usually provided by the host institution, subject to local regulations.
Is prior postdoctoral experience required?
In most cases, prior postdoctoral experience is not mandatory. However, candidates with relevant research experience beyond the PhD may be preferred for certain positions.
What is the typical duration of a postdoctoral contract?
Postdoctoral contracts typically range from six months to three years, with the possibility of extension depending on funding availability and performance.
Are teaching responsibilities included?
Teaching responsibilities vary by institution and position. Some postdoctoral roles are research-only, while others may include limited teaching or supervision duties.
Can I apply for multiple postdoctoral positions?
Yes. Candidates are encouraged to apply for multiple suitable postdoctoral positions to increase their chances of selection.
Disclaimer:
This position is published for informational purposes. Please refer to the official application link for the most accurate and up-to-date details.