The appointments are full-time for two years, with a possible one-year extension. Applicants with doctoral degrees in physics, applied physics, nanotechnology, or microwave engineering may be eligible. The application deadline is 13 November 2026. This guide explains the research areas, eligibility criteria, responsibilities, application requirements, and practical steps for preparing a competitive application.
Overview of the Chalmers Postdoctoral Positions
Chalmers University of Technology is an established Swedish university specialising in technology and natural sciences. The advertised positions belong to the Department of Microtechnology and Nanoscience, where researchers investigate quantum technologies, nanoscience, and advanced electronic systems.
According to the official vacancy announcement, the university seeks two postdoctoral researchers for distinct but complementary research directions. Both positions combine experimental investigation with device development and data analysis.
Key Details at a Glance
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University: Chalmers University of Technology
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Country: Sweden
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Location: Gothenburg
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Research group: 202Q-lab
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Number of positions: Two
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Employment type: Full-time, temporary employment
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Initial duration: Two years, with a possible one-year extension
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Application deadline: 13 November 2026
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Required application language: English
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Principal contact: Professor Simone Gasparinetti
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The positions receive support through the Wallenberg Centre for Quantum Technology (WACQT) and a Knut and Alice Wallenberg Foundation Proof of Concept Grant. However, applicants should consult the official vacancy for the precise scope of each research project and its requirements.
Why Consider Postdoctoral Research in Superconducting Quantum Circuits?
Superconducting quantum circuits provide a platform for studying quantum information processing and developing quantum computing hardware. Researchers engineer electrical circuits that exhibit quantum behaviour at extremely low temperatures. They then investigate how to control, measure, and preserve delicate quantum states.
Consequently, this field brings together experimental physics, electrical engineering, materials science, and nanofabrication. Postdoctoral researchers can develop a valuable combination of theoretical understanding and practical laboratory skills.
Moreover, experience with superconducting devices, cryogenic systems, and microwave measurements can support future careers in universities, national laboratories, quantum technology companies, and industrial research teams.
The Chalmers opportunity is particularly relevant to researchers who want to move beyond theoretical modelling and contribute directly to experimental quantum technology. Nevertheless, applicants should select the project that best matches their existing expertise and long-term research goals.
Research Areas and Project Responsibilities
The two postdoctoral positions focus on different challenges in quantum technology. Therefore, candidates should examine both projects carefully before preparing their applications.
1. Quantum Information Processing with Bosonic Modes
The first research direction explores quantum information processing using bosonic modes in superconducting cavities. Rather than encoding information exclusively in conventional two-level superconducting qubits, this approach uses quantum states associated with electromagnetic modes.
Such systems offer interesting possibilities for quantum information storage, control, and error correction. However, researchers must address practical challenges involving losses, coherence, measurement, and reliable control.
At Chalmers, the project aims to advance the scalable verification of bosonic quantum processors towards quantum advantage.
Expected activities include:
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Designing and investigating new quantum devices.
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Performing sensitive microwave measurements.
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Developing techniques to control bosonic modes.
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Studying materials and fabrication processes that influence coherence.
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Fabricating superconducting devices and analysing experimental results.
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Communicating research findings through scientific publications and other research outputs.
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This project may suit candidates with experience in experimental quantum physics, quantum optics, superconducting circuits, or related areas.
2. Quantum-Enabling Technologies and Parametric Amplifiers
The second position focuses on travelling-wave parametric amplifiers (TWPAs) based on the nonlinear kinetic inductance of superconducting thin films.
Quantum experiments often produce extremely weak signals. Therefore, researchers need sensitive amplification techniques that increase measurable signals while adding as little noise as possible.
TWPAs can support this goal by amplifying microwave signals across useful frequency ranges. Developing improved devices could help researchers build more effective readout systems for superconducting quantum processors.
The postdoctoral researcher will contribute to activities such as:
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Designing and simulating superconducting microwave circuits.
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Developing thin-film devices using nanofabrication methods.
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Conducting microwave measurements in frequency and time domains.
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Running cryogenic experiments using dilution refrigerators.
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Integrating amplifiers with superconducting qubit readout systems.
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Modelling data and communicating research outcomes.
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In particular, this position may appeal to candidates with practical experience in microwave engineering, cryogenics, superconducting electronics, or device fabrication.
Eligibility Criteria for International Applicants
The official announcement specifies two mandatory requirements. First, applicants must hold a doctoral degree in one of the following disciplines, or an equivalent qualification:
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Physics
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Applied physics
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Nanotechnology
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Radio-frequency (RF) or microwave engineering
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The doctoral qualification must be completed no later than the employment decision. Second, candidates must demonstrate strong written and spoken English communication skills.
Previous experience in relevant experimental techniques can strengthen an application. The university specifically identifies superconducting circuits, nanofabrication, cryogenics, microwave design, microwave measurements, and mesoscopic physics as useful areas of expertise. Experience supervising students or junior colleagues is also an advantage.
Importantly, the vacancy does not require applicants to demonstrate expertise in every listed technique. Instead, candidates should explain which skills they already possess and how those skills relate to their preferred project.
Guidance for Indian and Other International Researchers
Researchers applying from India or elsewhere outside Sweden should check their doctoral completion dates and ensure that their qualifications meet the stated requirements. An equivalent foreign degree may satisfy the academic requirement, subject to the university’s assessment.
Additionally, applicants should prepare an English-language CV and a focused personal letter. They should also investigate relocation arrangements and any residence-permit requirements that may apply before employment begins.
Salary, Funding, and Employment Conditions
These positions are temporary, full-time research appointments rather than student scholarships. Chalmers states that postdoctoral researchers are university employees and receive employee benefits.
The initial contract lasts two years, with the possibility of extending it by one additional year. Researchers must also be physically present throughout their employment.
However, the vacancy announcement does not specify a salary amount or a guaranteed extension. Applicants should therefore avoid assuming a particular monthly salary or treating the additional year as automatic. Check the university’s employment information for details about benefits, taxation, relocation, and other practical arrangements.
How to Apply for the Chalmers Postdoc Positions
Applicants should submit their applications through the official vacancy portal before the deadline. The university requires the application to be written in English and uploaded as PDF files.
Step 1: Review the Official Vacancy
Read the official Chalmers postdoctoral vacancy carefully. Identify the project that best matches your background and research interests.
Step 2: Prepare Your Academic CV
Include the following information:
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Education and doctoral research.
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Relevant experimental and technical skills.
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A complete list of publications.
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Research projects and major contributions.
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Teaching and pedagogical experience.
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Supervision or mentoring experience, where applicable.
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Moreover, describe your individual contributions to collaborative research instead of listing project titles alone.
Step 3: Write a Focused Personal Letter
Your personal letter should introduce you, summarise your research background and key outcomes, and explain your future goals and research focus.
For example, a candidate applying for the amplifier project could describe previous microwave measurements, device fabrication, or cryogenic experiments. A candidate interested in bosonic quantum information could highlight experience with quantum-state control, cavity experiments, or measurement techniques.
In both cases, connect your experience directly to the responsibilities described in the vacancy.
Step 4: Upload and Submit Your Application
Upload the CV and personal letter as PDF files. Each file must remain within the stated 40 MB limit. The application system does not support ZIP files.
Finally, use the application form linked from the vacancy page. The university will not consider incomplete applications or applications submitted by email. Submit your documents well before 13 November 2026 and confirm that the portal has accepted them.
Expert Tips for Preparing a Strong Application
Competition for specialised quantum research positions can be demanding. Therefore, applicants should demonstrate both technical competence and a clear research direction.
Match your evidence to the project. For the amplifier position, emphasise relevant circuit design, microwave measurements, thin-film fabrication, or cryogenic work. For the bosonic-modes project, highlight quantum control, cavity physics, experimental measurements, and coherence-related research.
Explain results, not just responsibilities. Instead of writing that you operated laboratory equipment, describe the research question, your contribution, and the outcome. Where appropriate, mention publications, validated methods, or improvements to experimental procedures.
Make your research interests specific. Explain what you hope to investigate at Chalmers and why the selected project fits your experience. Avoid generic statements about wanting to work in a prestigious university.
Check every document. Ensure that publication details are accurate, dates are consistent, and the personal letter identifies the relevant research direction. Ask a colleague to review the documents before submission.
Finally, remember that relevant experience strengthens an application but cannot guarantee selection. The committee will assess each candidate against the position’s requirements and the research group’s needs.
Summary Table
| Feature | Details |
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| Program Name | Postdoctoral Positions in Superconducting Quantum Circuits and Quantum-Enabling Technologies |
| Host Country | Sweden |
| Funded By | Wallenberg Centre for Quantum Technology (WACQT) and Knut and Alice Wallenberg Foundation Proof of Concept Grant |
| Duration | Two years, with a possible one-year extension |
| Study Mode | Not applicable; full-time, on-site employment |
| Eligibility | Doctoral degree in physics, applied physics, nanotechnology, RF/microwave engineering, or an equivalent field; strong English communication skills |
| Financial Support | Salaried university employment and employee benefits; exact salary not specified in the vacancy |
| Fields of Study | Bosonic quantum information processing, superconducting circuits, microwave engineering, quantum-enabling technologies, cryogenics, and nanofabrication |
| Deadline | 13/11/2026 |
| Official Website | Click here |
Conclusion
The postdoctoral positions in superconducting quantum circuits at Chalmers University of Technology offer an opportunity to contribute to experimental quantum computing and enabling technologies. The two projects suit researchers with complementary interests in bosonic quantum information processing and low-noise microwave amplification. Eligible candidates should prepare a targeted CV and personal letter that clearly demonstrate their research contributions and relevant technical skills. Since the deadline is 13 November 2026, applicants should begin preparing their documents early. Visit the official vacancy portal to review the complete requirements and submit your application on time.
Frequently Asked Questions (FAQs)
Chalmers University of Technology offers two postdoctoral positions focused on bosonic quantum information processing and superconducting microwave amplifier technologies.
There are two positions in the 202Q-lab. Each focuses on a different research direction within superconducting quantum technology.
Applicants need a doctoral degree in physics, applied physics, nanotechnology, RF or microwave engineering, or an equivalent field. Strong English communication skills are also essential.
Yes, international researchers can apply with an eligible doctoral qualification. However, successful candidates must present a valid residence permit before starting employment.
The projects focus on bosonic quantum computing, superconducting circuit design, microwave amplification, nanofabrication, cryogenic experiments, and quantum device development.
No, previous experience in related techniques is an advantage rather than a mandatory requirement. However, expertise in cryogenics, microwave measurements, or nanofabrication can strengthen your application.
