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Postdoctoral researcher -- Fast photon number resolution in superconducting nanowire photon detector
Universiteit Leiden
Source: Headcount Labs · original listing ↗
Job data: Headcount Labs, ODbL 1.0. Job descriptions belong to their employers.
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About this role
Teaser Text Superconducting nanowire single-photon detectors (SNSPDs) are a key technology for photonic quantum computing, offering high detection efficiency, low noise, and fast operation. Extending these capabilities to photon-number-resolving detectors creates new opportunities for quantum information processing but also introduces important challenges in superconducting device physics and electrical engineering. Combining high photon-number resolution with high detection efficiency, short reset times, low dark counts, and scalable integration in a single nanowire remains a demanding detector-design problem. In this research, you will investigate the physics and design of superconducting nanowire detectors for high-speed, photon-number-resolving detection. You will explore how nanowire geometry, superconducting properties, impedance matching, and readout electronics determine detector performance, and use this understanding to develop improved detector architectures. The project aims to combine detection efficiencies above 80%, dark count rates below 100 counts per second, operation at repetition rates of 100 MHz, and resolution of at least eight photons in a scalable detector technology compatible with photonic integrated circuits. By combining physical modelling, device design, and experimental investigation, you will help establish the limits of superconducting nanowire detectors and develop solutions for the requirements of photonic quantum computing. What you will do You will contribute to a multidisciplinary research effort at the interface of superconducting device physics, high-speed electronics, and photonic quantum technology. You will take an active role in the design and optimization of superconducting nanowire detectors, investigating the physical mechanisms that limit their speed and photon-number resolution. You will work closely with researchers in the group on experimental characterization and collaborate with specialist partners on detector fabrication and integration into photonic quantum technologies. You will: - Design and optimize superconducting nanowire detectors and impedance-matching structures for high-speed, photon-number-resolving operation- Investigate the superconducting device physics that determines detection efficiency, reset time, dark counts, and photon-number resolution - Investigate the interaction between nanowire geometry, electrical impedance, biasing conditions, and cryogenic readout electronics - Design and perform experiments to test detector concepts, identify performance limitations, and validate improved detector architectures - Work together with researchers in superconductivity, electronics, photonics, and quantum technology within a multidisciplinary academic and industrial network - Contribute to the supervision of students and to the dissemination of research results Where you will work The Leiden Institute for Research in Physics (LION) is one of the oldest physics institutes in the Netherlands, with more than 180 staff members and approximately 30 senior scientists. Our research spans a wide range of topics, from cosmology to quantum physics and from economic networks to the physics behind DNA. There is extensive collaboration with other disciplines both within and beyond the university, as well as with industry partners. Curiosity is what unites everyone within the institute. Together, we push the boundaries of knowledge, provide inspiring education, and connect science with society. Research within the Faculty of Science covers disciplines ranging from mathematics, computer science, astronomy, physics, chemistry, and biopharmaceutical sciences to biology and environmental sciences. This research is carried out within eight institutes, which also offer eight bachelor's and fifteen master's programs. In recent years, the faculty has experienced significant growth and now has more than 2,300 staff members and approximately 5,700 students. We are located in the heart of the Bio Science Park, one of Europe’s largest science parks, where academia and industry come together. Working at our faculty means being part of a dynamic, international environment where both staff and students are driven by curiosity—not only to expand fundamental knowledge for the sake of science but also to contribute to solving the major societal challenges of tomorrow. What you bring We are looking for a highly motivated researcher with: - A PhD in physics, applied physics, electrical engineering, or a closely related discipline - A strong background in superconductivity and superconducting devices, or closely related experience in nanoscale electronic devices - Experience in experimental device physics, device characterization, or the development of electronic or cryogenic measurement systems - An interest in understanding the physical mechanisms underlying device performance and translating this understanding into improved designs - Experience with numerical modelling, simulation, or computational methods for device design - Familiarity with high-speed electronics, microwave engineering, impedance matching, or low-noise measurements is an advantage - Experience with superconducting nanowire single-photon detectors, cleanroom fabrication, or cryogenic electronics is an advantage - A proactive and independent approach to experimental problem-solving, combined with a collaborative attitude - Strong analytical and communication skills - Excellent command of English What we offer We offer a full-time appointment for 2 years, with an initial contract of 12 months and the possibility of extension based on performance, in accordance with the Collective Labour Agreement for Dutch Universities (CAO NU). The salary ranges from € 3706 to € 5760 gross per month (scale 10), depending on experience. In addition, we offer: - 8% holiday allowance and 8.3% end-of-year bonus - A pension scheme with ABP - At least 29 vacation days per year - Flexible working conditions - Full reimbursement of public transport commuting costs - A home-working allowance - Training and development opportunities What we value Promoting an inclusive community is central to Leiden University’s values and vision. We strive to be an open community in which all students and staff members feel valued and respected, and are able to fully develop themselves. We consider an inclusive academic environment, where students and staff can share their experiences and viewpoints, to be essential for the development of talent. Want to apply or find out more? If you want to apply straight away, click the application button. For more information, please contact Dr. Michiel de Dood (dood@physics.leidenuniv.nl). You can apply until December 7, 2026. To apply, please ensure that you upload the following documents: - Cover letter including motivation for the project - CV with publication list - Contact details of two references To help us get to know each other better, we follow a number of steps in the application procedure. For more information, see https://www.universiteitleiden.nl/en/working-at/job-application-procedure-and-employment-conditions . Acquisition in response to this vacancy is not appreciated. If you nevertheless choose to send us CVs, no rights can be derived from this.