PhD scholarship in Integrated Photonic Circuits for Quantum Number Generation

The Machine Learning in Photonic Systems group at DTU Electro seeks a candidate for a PhD project on integrated photonic circuits for quantum random number generation. The 3-year PhD position is funded by European H2020 project ` PROgraMmable photonics Enabling ultra-fast spiking and quanTum nEUral networkS’ (PROMETHEUS). This PhD project focuses on proposing, numerically analyzing, and experimentally characterizing novel integrated implementations of quantum random number generators (QRNGs). The project will be developed in close collaboration with an industrial project partner, the quantum start-up QTI Company.

Responsibilities and qualifications

The PhD project focuses on QRNGs. Random numbers are a key requirement for cryptographic schemes, they allow Monte Carlo-based simulations, and fundamental physical tests, and they are essential for the initialization of machine learning algorithms. Current RNGs are based on deterministic algorithms, thus undermining cryptographic security, as well as generating bias in the training of machine-learning algorithms. Alternatively, to these approaches, the nature of quantum mechanics, which is intrinsically random, is perfect for achieving this task. This makes QRNGs, and especially integrated QRNGs on-chip, key components for future computing and communication equipment.

Your overall responsibility within the project will be developing both numerical methods and experimental validations to address some of (but not limited to) the research topics listed below:

• Integrated quantum random number generation
• Silicon photonic integrated circuits (PICs)
• Design of linear and nonlinear integrated waveguides
• Optimization of photonic circuits to achieve specific functionalities
• Characterization of chips fabricated by project partners
• Interact with project partners on quantum reservoir computing

In general, you are expected to:

• Help to develop numerical simulation code in Matlab/Python (proven coding experience in at least one of them)
• Design PICs by using foundry-provided process design kits
• Optimize PICs based on a combination of custom-developed code and commercial software (e.g. Lumerical)
• Help to setup experimental testbeds for photonic chip characterization
• Characterize quantum photonic chips in terms of basic properties and quantum randomness performance
• Propose novel ideas and actively contribute to the project

Candidates are expected to have experience in optics, especially integrated optics, and quantum optics. Additionally, the candidates are required to have good communication skills in English (both written and spoken) and a proven ability to work independently, plan, and carry out complicated tasks.

The candidates are expected to describe their previous experience with numerical optical simulations and/or experimental optics in the cover letter

Moreover, the following skills will receive additional consideration:

• Theoretical understanding of quantum optics and nonlinear optics
• Theoretical understanding of integrated photonics and wave-propagation in optical waveguides
• Experience with numerical implementations of quantum optical simulations
• Experience with quantum randomness

You must have a two-year master’s degree (120 ECTS points) or a similar degree with an academic level equivalent to a two-year master’s degree.

Approval and Enrolment

The scholarship for the PhD degree is subject to academic approval, and the candidate will be enrolled in one of the general degree programmes at DTU. For information about our enrolment requirements and the general planning of the PhD study programme, please see DTU’s rules for the PhD education .

Assessment

The assessment of the applicants will be made by Senior Researcher Francesco Da Ros and Assistant Professor Davide Bacco.

We offer

DTU is a leading technical university globally recognized for the excellence of its research, education, innovation and scientific advice. We offer a rewarding and challenging job in an international environment. We strive for academic excellence in an environment characterized by collegial respect and academic freedom tempered by responsibility.

Salary and appointment terms

The appointment will be based on the collective agreement with the Danish Confederation of Professional Associations. The allowance will be agreed upon with the relevant union. The period of employment is 3 years. The starting date is expected approx. January 2023.

You can read more about career paths at DTU here .

Further information

Further information may be obtained from Senior Researcher Francesco Da Ros (fdro@dtu.dk ) and Assistant Professor Davide Bacco (dabac@dtu.dk ).

You can read more about DTU Fotonik on www.fotonik.dtu.dk/english .

If you are applying from abroad, you may find useful information on working in Denmark and at DTU at DTU – Moving to Denmark . Furthermore, you have the option of joining our monthly free seminar “PhD relocation to Denmark and startup “Zoom” seminar ” for all questions regarding the practical matters of moving to Denmark and working as a PhD at DTU.

Application procedure

Your complete online application must be submitted no later than 31 October 2022 (Danish time). Apply online here: Positions at DTU Electro

Applications must be submitted as one PDF file containing all materials to be given consideration. To apply, please open the link “Apply online”, fill out the online application form, and attach all your materials in English in one PDF file. The file must include:

• A letter motivating the application (cover letter)
• Curriculum vitae
• Grade transcripts and BSc/MSc diploma (in English) including official description of grading scale

You may apply prior to ob­tai­ning your master’s degree but cannot begin before having received it.

Applications received after the deadline will not be considered.

All interested candidates irrespective of age, gender, race, disability, religion or ethnic background are encouraged to apply.

DTU Electro has 320 employees with competencies in optics and is one of the largest centers in the world based solely on research in photonics and electronics. Our photonics research is performed within optical sensors, lasers, LEDs, photovoltaics, ultra-high speed optical transmission systems, bio-photonics, nano-optics, and quantum photonics.

Technology for people

DTU develops technology for people. With our international elite research and study programmes, we are helping to create a better world and to solve the global challenges formulated in the UN’s 17 Sustainable Development Goals. Hans Christian Ørsted founded DTU in 1829 with a clear vision to develop and create value using science and engineering to benefit society. That vision lives on today. DTU has 13,400 students and 5,800 employees. We work in an international atmosphere and have an inclusive, evolving, and informal working environment. DTU has campuses in all parts of Denmark and in Greenland, and we collaborate with the best universities around the world.