Postdoctoral Researcher in cQED Theory and Open Quantum Systems

Aalto University is where science and art meet technology and business. We shape a sustainable future by making research breakthroughs in and across our disciplines, sparking the game changers of tomorrow and creating novel solutions to major global challenges. Our community is made up of 120 nationalities, 16 000 students, 400 professors and close to 5000 faculty and staff working on our dynamic campus in Espoo, Greater Helsinki, Finland. Diversity is part of who we are, and we actively work to ensure our community’s diversity and inclusiveness. This is why we warmly encourage qualified candidates from all backgrounds to join our community.

At the Department of Applied Physics, our pioneering research in physical sciences creates important industrial applications that hold great technological potential. Our research focuses on Materials physics, Quantum technology, Soft & living matter, and Advanced energy solutions. Topics extend from fundamental research to important applications. We educate future generations of research and development professionals, data specialists, technology experts, inventors, and scientists for industry and society.

Role and research opportunity

We are now looking for a Postdoctoral Researcher in theory to join the Quantum Computing and Devices (QCD) group at Aalto University. This position is aimed at an outstanding researcher in circuit quantum electrodynamics (cQED) who wants to help shape the next generation of superconducting quantum technology.

The role is a natural continuation of a successful line of quantum-circuit theorists in the group and is now open as we recruit a successor to a departing circuit-theory researcher. We are especially interested in candidates with strong experience in the theory of cQED circuits and a demonstrated ability to translate theory into experimentally useful design principles, models, or analysis. Expertise in open quantum systems is considered as a strong advantage.

Your network and team

QCD is one of Europe’s strongest academic environments in superconducting quantum circuits, combining theory, computation, device design, nanofabrication, cryogenic measurements, and entrepreneurship in one closely connected group. Our recent work spans high-coherence transmons, ultrasensitive thermal detectors for qubit readout, cryogenic microwave-photon measurements, tunable dissipation, and new concepts for autonomous quantum processors.

You will work in close interaction with experimental researchers, cleanroom experts, and collaborators at VTT and beyond. Similar theory positions in the group have led to careers as professor, long-term quantum-hardware roles in industry, and new spinouts! The QCD group and its wider alumni network have also contributed to Finland’s quantum startup ecosystem, including IQM, QMill, Quanscient, and Arctic Instruments.

Your responsibilities

• Develop theoretical models for superconducting quantum circuits, especially cQED devices relevant to control, readout, reset, filtering, tunable coupling, and low-temperature feedback.

• Analyse loss, noise, and decoherence mechanisms and connect theory with measured data.

• Contribute to new concepts at the interface of circuit theory, open quantum systems, and quantum control.

• Work closely with experimental researchers to guide device design, interpret results, and identify the most promising next steps.

• Publish high-impact research, help supervise students, and contribute to the scientific direction of the group.

What we are looking for

• PhD in theoretical and computational quantum physics, quantum engineering, or a closely related field.

• Strong track record in cQED, superconducting circuits, quantum optics, or a nearby area.

• Excellent command of quantum-circuit theory, effective models, analytical and/or numerical methods, and scientific programming.

• Experience in open quantum systems, dissipative dynamics, or noise theory is highly valued.

• Ability to collaborate productively with experimentalists and communicate ideas clearly in English.

• Evidence of scientific independence, ambition, and publication quality appropriate to career stage.

What we offer

• A full-time fixed-term postdoctoral appointment, typically up to three years on the first contract. The start date is 1 September or as agreed.

• The salary range for this position is approximately 4229–4649 €/month.

• A leading research environment with state-of-the-art infrastructure.

• The opportunity to work on theory that can directly influence experiments and technology development.

• Strong mentoring together with room for intellectual independence and your own ideas.

• A vibrant environment in the wider Finnish quantum ecosystem and in the Aalto–VTT–InstituteQ network.

• Excellent career-development prospects in academia and quantum industry.

Join us

The deadline for applications is 1st of June 2026. Please submit your CV, publication list, a short cover letter or research statement, and contact details for referees through Aalto University’s recruitment system (click the "Apply” button). We warmly welcome applicants of all backgrounds and nationalities.

Please note: Aalto University’s employees should apply for the position via our internal HR system Workday (Internal Jobs) by using their existing Workday user account (not via the external webpage for open positions). If you are a student or visitor at Aalto University, please apply with your personal email address (not aalto.fi) via Aalto University open positions.

We will go through applications, and we may invite suitable candidates to interview already during the application period. Aalto University reserves the right for justified reasons to leave the position open, to extend the application period, reopen the application process, and to consider candidates who have not submitted applications during the application period.

For more information about the role, please contact Prof. Mikko Möttönen mikko.mottonen(at)aalto.fi. For questions related to the application process, please contact HR Advisor Minni Forss minni.forss(at)aalto.fi.

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