Postdoc in Ultrafast Spectroscopy of Quantum Emitters in Layered Materials and Molecules - DTU Electro

Postdoc opportunity in ultrafast spectroscopy of quantum emitters in the layered material hexagonal Boron Nitride (hBN) and molecular systems. Recent experiments, also performed in our group, have shown that luminescent centers in hBN are excellent candidates for the development of future light-based quantum technologies working close to or at room temperature.

In the Quantum Photonics in Low-Dimensional System Group at the Technical University of Denmark (DTU), we are looking for motivated and talented scientists holding a PhD in ultrafast optics and quantum nanophotonics to perform spectroscopy of the quantum coherence properties of promising quantum emitters in hBN and molecular systems. Our group belongs to the Quantum and Nanophotonics Section of the Department of Electrical and Photonics Engineering (DTU Electro).

Funded by a Novo Nordisk Foundation New Exploratory Research and Discovery program, the project led by Associate Professor Nicolas Stenger aims to deepen our fundamental understanding of phonon-induced decoherence in quantum emitters in layered materials, a major hurdle for the development of light-based quantum technologies beyond cryogenic environments.

You will work on developing a unique ultrafast spectroscopy technique to quantify in the influence of phonons on the quantum dynamics of quantum emitters in hBN and molecular systems. You will work in close collaboration with experts in ultrafast spectroscopy at DTU Electro as well as theoreticians in our group and one of the world experts in phonon-induced decoherence in quantum emitters, Dr. Jake Iles-Smith from the University of Sheffield.

Responsibilities
Your main responsibility will be to implement a unique ultrafast spectroscopic method able to track the dissipation processes in quantum emitters induced by the phononic environment. You will benefit from the long experience in ultrafast spectroscopy available at DTU Electro and adapt state-of-the-art methods to be able to track the electronic, photonic, and phonon dynamics in these systems. This will involve the testing of a new ultrafast spectroscopic setup, in particular its performance in terms of temporal resolutions and energy tunability. You will analyze the experimental data and compare them to theoretical predictions. You are expected to have an excellent understanding of quantum nanophotonics, of optical spectroscopy and of experimental laser physics. You can work independently and communicate efficiently with a team of experts in the field. You will also have the opportunity to nurture and develop your own ideas, as well as to guide and supervise MSc and PhD students.

Qualifications

• As a formal qualification, you must hold a PhD degree (or equivalent) in physics, photonics engineering or a related topic.
• A strong background in laser spectroscopy and solid state physics
• A good understanding of solid state-based quantum emitters and quantum nanophotonics
• Excellent communication skills, e.g., demonstrated by a track-record of high-impact publications
• Interest in the supervision and mentoring of students

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 terms of employment
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 2 years.

You can read more about career paths at DTU here.

Further information
Further information may be obtained from Associate Professor Nicolas Stenger ([email protected]), Associate Professor Martijn Wubs ([email protected]), Dr. Jake Iles-Smith ([email protected])

You can read more about the Department of Electrical and Photonics Engineering at https://electro.dtu.dk/

If you are applying from abroad, you may find useful information on working in Denmark and at DTU at DTU – Moving to Denmark.

Application procedure

Your complete online application must be submitted no later than the 15 February 2026 (23:59 Danish time). Applications must be submitted as one PDF file containing all materials to be given consideration. To apply, please open the link "Apply now", fill out the online application form, and attach all your materials in English in one PDF file. The file must include:

• Application (cover letter)
• CV
• Academic Diplomas (MSc/PhD – in English)
• List of publications

Applications received after the deadline will not be considered.

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

DTU Electro has more than 300 employees with competencies in electrical and photonics engineering. Research is performed within nanophotonics, lasers, quantum photonics, optical sensors, LEDs, photovoltaics, ultra-high speed optical transmission systems, bio-photonics, acoustics, power electronics, robotics, and autonomous systems. See more on DTU Electro.

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 mission to develop and create value using science and engineering to benefit society. That mission lives on today. DTU has 13,500 students and 6,000 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.

Location
Kgs. Lyngby, Denmark

Apply Before
2026-02-15T22:59:00+00:00