Quantum Simulation with Ultracold Dysprosium atoms

INSTITUTION: Fundación Donostia International Physics Center (Donostia-San Sebastián, Spain).

POSITION: Researcher position – Quantum Science Lab.

TYPE OF POSITION: Tenure track (Ikerbasque Research Fellow), full-time.

ABOUT DONOSTIA INTERNATIONAL PHYSICS CENTER

Donostia International Physics Center (DIPC) is a research center that develops cutting-edge research in physics and related disciplines. DIPC’s mission also includes the transmission of scientific culture to society, as well as responding to global societal challenges that demand scientific insight. With more than 300 researchers and a strong program of visiting scientists, the center acts as a catalyst for knowledge in its close scientific ecosystem. DIPC produces more than 500 scientific publications annually and it has one of the highest ERC ratios in Europe.

For more details on DIPC´s research activities, please visit our website at https://www.dipc.ehu.eus

POSITION OVERVIEW

The DIPC, in collaboration with Ikerbasque (Basque Foundation for Science – http://www.ikerbasque.net), is seeking a highly motivated and experienced experimental physicist to join the Quantum Science Lab and take a leading role in the development of a new experimental line on quantum simulation with dysprosium atoms.

This new line of research will be embedded in the activities of the Quantum Science Lab at DIPC led by the PIs (F. Ferlaino and M. Mark), and aims to have close synergy with the local quantum theory group, as well as with national and international collaborators.

This is a researcher position with the opportunity to lead the scientific and technical development of a cutting-edge quantum experiment from its early stages and contribute to shaping the scientific strategy and execution of the project.

We offer a Ikerbasque Research Fellow position based in Donostia-San Sebastián, with full institutional support to establish a stable and impactful research program.

KEY RESPONSIBILITIES

• Take a central role in developing a novel research line within the Quantum Science Lab on quantum simulation with high connectivity using long-range interacting particles. 
• Responsible for developing new advanced experimental technique of diagnostic and manipulation of ultracold atoms.
• Develop and expand collaborations with theoretical groups and well development of numerical toolbox to simulate magnetic atom is optical lattices in line with strategic objectives.
• Mentor and co-supervise PhD students, postdocs, and junior researchers involved in the experimental effort.
• Actively contribute to scientific publications, funding proposals, scientific reporting, and dissemination activities.
• Proactively develop strategic partnerships and collaborations with national and international scientific groups, both theoretical and experimental.
• Contribute to building a cohesive and innovative research environment within the Quantum Science Lab and the wider DIPC community.
• Managing the administrative tasks related to the laboratory operations.

While the overarching scientific direction will be jointly defined with the lab PI, the position offers significant autonomy, creative freedom, and leadership opportunities in shaping the evolution of the experiment and its impact.

REQUIREMENTS

• A PhD in experimental AMO quantum physics (to be completed before 31.12.2023).
• Demonstrated ability to lead and carry out advanced experimental research in quantum simulation.
• Proven experimental experience in operating complex experimental setups involving optical lattices, cavity-enhanced architectures and quantum gas systems.
• Specific expertise in working with complex multi-electron atoms (e.g., lanthanides), with a focus on magnetic species such as dysprosium, erbium, or related elements.
• Strong technical proficiency in laser systems, vacuum technology, and electronic control systems.
• Ability to develop and perform numerical simulations of ultracold quantum gas systems.
• Strong programming skills for developing experiment control systems.
• Experience in supervising and mentoring graduate and/or undergraduate students in an experimental research environment.
• Strong publication record in high-quality international peer-reviewed journals.
• Willingness to develop and lead competitive research proposals for international funding programs (e.g., ERC, Horizon Europe, national agencies).
• Excellent communication skills and a strong motivation to work in an international, collaborative research environment.
• Commitment to contributing to a long-term, high-impact scientific vision, and to collaborating closely with the principal investigator in shaping the strategic direction of a major quantum experiment.
• Very good command of English, both written and spoken, for effective scientific communication and collaboration.

CONDITIONS

• Tenure track, full-time position, based at DIPC in Donostia-San Sebastián.
• The research will be integrated into the activities of the Quantum Science Lab at DIPC led by Francesca Ferlaino and Manfred Mark.
• Preferred starting date: during 2026.
• Competitive institutional support and integration into the long-term scientific strategy of the research center.

APPLICATION PROCESS

Interested candidates should submit a single PDF including:

1. A motivation letter describing their experience, research interests, and expectations. The letter should also include their preferred and earliest possible start date.
2. A detailed CV including both a max. of 3 highlighted Publications (1–3) with Short Context and a full list of publications.
3. A brief summary of relevant experimental expertise.

The PDF should also include the names and contact information of two referees.

Reference letters must be sent directly by the referees to jobs.research@dipc.org by the application deadline. It is the candidate’s responsibility to ensure that the letters are submitted on time.

Please send your application by email to jobs.research@dipc.org indicating “Quantum Simulation with Ultracold Dysprosium atoms” in the subject line before 24th March 2026.

EQUALITY AND INCLUSION

DIPC and Ikerbasque are committed to fostering an inclusive and diverse research environment. Applications from women are especially encouraged.