Postdoctoral Research Associate (Wissenschaftliche*r Mitarbeiter*in, salary level E 13 TV-L)

Creating knowledge. Making a difference. Shaping the future. This is what the University of Münster stands for as one of the strongest research-oriented universities in Germany and one of the largest employers in the region. Every day, over 7,000 employees devote themselves to cutting-edge research and excellent teaching. We share more than a workplace. We share the desire to make a real impact – regionally and internationally. Our day-to-day work is distinguished by diversity, openness and space to pursue one’s ideas. Become a part of our team – in academia, a technical or manual trade, or administration.

The Department of Quantum Technology in the Faculty of Physics strengthens the emerging field of quantum science, education, and technology at the University of Münster. The department's research, teaching, and knowledge transfer activities are oriented toward topics with overarching relevance for quantum information processing, quantum communication, and quantum sensing. The department is home to experimental and theoretical research groups working on quantum technologies, quantum networks, and a wide range of applications. The department's diverse methodological portfolio encompasses state-of-the-art nanostructuring capabilities at the Münster Nanofabrication Facility as well as modern laboratory infrastructures at the Center for NanoTechnology and the Center for Soft Nanoscience.

The Department for Quantum Technology at the University of Münster, Germany, is seeking to fill the position of a

Postdoctoral Research Associate (Wissenschaftliche*r Mitarbeiter*in, salary level E 13 TV-L)

at the earliest possible date. We are offering a fixed-term full-time position (100% FTE) for 2 years. Full time employees are required to teach 4 hours per week during the semester.

Your tasks:

• Participation in research and teaching activities of Prof C Schuck’s group, including the planning and execution of independent scientific projects in the area of photonic integrated circuits with a focus on interconnected functionality for on-chip quantum optics, quantum-key distribution, and superconducting single-photon detectors
• Strong, leading contributions to research projects on quantum technology and photonic integrated circuits with national and international partners in academia and industry.
• Fabrication of chips with photonic integrated circuits in University of Münster’s cleanroom facilities and with external foundry services, as well as their characterization and interpretation of the results.
• Design of photonic integrated circuits, chip layout, and electromagnetic simulations of photonic systems, devices and components.
• Planning, construction and maintenance of laboratory setups. Work with lasers, low-noise and high speed (opto)electronics, fiber optics, and cryogenic environments.
• Supervision of undergraduate and PhD students through providing subject-related expertise, critical discussion of results, and instruction on applying scientific methods.

Our expectations:

• A graduate degree (i.e. German Diplom and/or master’s degree)
• A doctorate in physics, electrical engineering or a closely related field of study is required, as well as a solid research profile and strong analytical background.
• Experience in experimental physics, nano- or quantum technology and the ability to independently prepare and conduct experiments are indispensable. Experience with PICs, interconnects, quantum information and optical communication are highly desired.
• Proficiency in a high-level, general-purpose programming language, with a preference for Python, and experience in experiment automation and data analysis are mandatory. Advanced knowledge in numerical simulation and computational techniques are strongly desired.
• Modern nanofabrication facilities are available for developing nanophotonic circuit components. Willingness to work in cleanroom environments is a prerequisite, and familiarity with advanced nanofabrication methods, such as electron beam lithography and reactive ion etching, as well as characterisation of nanophotonic devices, e.g. using scanning electron microscopy and atomic force microscopy, is strongly desired.
• Experience as a teaching assistant, tutor or other supervision of students is desirable.
• You should be team-oriented, have good communication skills, organisational skills and the ability to work independently. Good command of written and spoken English is mandatory. German language skills are not a requirement, but a willingness to learn is desirable.

Advantages for you:

• Modern and well-equipped laboratory infrastructure at the Faculty of Physics – University of Münster , the Center for NanoTechnology (CeNTech) and the Center for Soft Nanoscience (SoN), as well as state-of-the-art clean room facilities at the Münster Nanofabrication Facility (MNF).
• A dynamic environment for research and teaching at the newly founded Department for Quantum Technology , which forms an integral part of the University’s emerging field “ Quantum Science Education and Technology ”
• Appreciation, commitment, openness and respect – values which are important to us.
• Our broad range of diverse work-time models offers great flexibility – also when working from home.
• If you have family members or young children in your care, our Family Service Office offers concrete support to help you balance your private and professional responsibilities.
• As an educational institution, we are deeply committed to offering occupational training and continuing education opportunities tailored to your individual needs.
• As a university employee, you are entitled to numerous benefits afforded to public servants, e.g. an attractive company pension scheme ( VBL ), an annual end-of-year bonus and a position that is shielded from economic fluctuations.

The University of Münster strongly supports equal opportunity and diversity . We welcome all applicants regardless of sex, nationality, ethnic or social background, religion or worldview, disability, age, sexual orientation or gender identity. We are committed to creating family-friendly working conditions. Part-time options are generally available.

We actively encourage applications by women. Women with equivalent qualifications and academic achievements will be preferentially considered unless these are outweighed by reasons which necessitate the selection of another candidate.

Have we piqued your interest? Then we look forward to receiving your application by 2026-10-30 via our online application form.

If you have any questions, please contact Prof. Dr. Carsten Schuck ( [email protected] ).

Reference number: 2026_10_09