Internship: Machine Learning for Photonic Circuits (H2/2026)

Quandela stands as a global leader in quantum computing, driven by groundbreaking technology and a strategic vision for scaling quantum solutions. The company’s unique ability to offer both hardware and software solutions, along with its commitment to build energy efficient datacenters and scalability, positions it to play a key role in the next wave of innovation, and in many strategic and sovereign industrial sectors. 

Join us at the forefront of quantum computing innovation 🚀 

Description of the Project / Team

We are seeking a highly motivated and innovative intern to join our cutting-edge research team focused on advancing the field of optimal control in photonic quantum computing. The selected candidate will work closely with our lead researcher to enhance the efficiency and precision of machine learning techniques applied to calibrate and control photonic integrated circuits. Our current methods have set a new benchmark in optimal control (see here), achieving unprecedented fidelity values. With the new generation of devices, featuring up to 600 controllable components, we are facing exciting new challenges in our quest for ultimate precision. This internship offers a unique opportunity to contribute to ground-breaking research, while working on some of the most recent integrated photonics hardware in the world.

Your key responsibilities

• Collaborate with the research team to understand and analyze existing machine learning models used for calibrating photonic chips.
• Develop and implement novel techniques to significantly reduce the number of required data samples, making the machine learning process more efficient.
• Optimize the computational aspects of machine learning training to accelerate the learning of the behavior of photonic devices.
• Design and develop strategies to mitigate imperfections learned by machine learning models, aiming for more precise photonic quantum computers.
• Collaborate on potential experimental work related to the research, depending on the intern's interests and skill set.
• Regularly communicate progress and findings. Participate in team discussions.

Requirements

• You are enrolled in a university program that includes an internship period. This should be a Master's Degree (first or second year) or equivalent (not a PhD) program in physics, engineering or related fields.
• You are available full-time for 5 to 6 months.
• You are proficient in Python programming and physics.
• You have good communication skills.
• You are curious, energetic and love solving problems.
• Knowledge of optics, quantum mechanics and machine learning is a plus.

Benefits

• Swile Card (meal vouchers) 🍴🛒
• 50% participation in transportation costs 🚆
• Possibility of remote work 💻
• Internship Allowance between €1,200 and €1,400 per month 💰
• 1,5 days off per month, cumulative 🧳

What we also offer

A challenging and innovative work environment at the heart of quantum computing. 

A diverse and collaborative company culture. 

Opportunities for professional growth and skill development. 

At Quandela, we believe that the strength of our team is the plurality of experiences, perspectives, and journeys. We are committed to building a respectful, inclusive, and welcoming work environment. All applications are welcome.