Introduction: The future of superconducting qubits depends on the ability to interconnect quantum processors efficiently and robustly. A promising route towards this goal lies in converting microwave photons from superconducting quantum processors into infrared photons which are compatible with low-loss telecommunication fibre networks. Such microwave-to-optical quantum transduction would enable long-distance quantum communication, scalable quantum networks, and seamless interfacing between cryogenic circuits and ambient-temperature measurement equipment.
At imec, we leverage high-quality materials grown on traditional silicon wafers to create advanced devices which have the potential to do single-photon conversion with high efficiency. Our aim is to develop a transducer based on electro-optic, and electro-opto-mechanical interactions, to convert single microwave photons into single infrared photons with unity efficiency.
Objective: For these transducer devices the performance of the incorporated electro-optical, or electro-opto-mechanical design is crucial. The project would be about the fabrication of electro-optic and electro-opto-mechanical devices to gain a better physical understanding of certain behaviours and draw conclusion that guide next device iterations.
Methodology: literature research, clean room work, analysing and interpreting data.
Expectations from the Candidate: Strong interest in quantum optics & mechanics. To bring a solution-oriented mindset with strong problem-solving ability. Independent way of working.
Candidate Profile: A background in quantum engineering, physics or electrical engineering. For full consideration, please ensure your application includes both an updated CV and a transcript of records from your master's program, showing the courses you have completed and the grades you have acquired so far.
Support and Guidance: Your daily interactions will be support by a PhD student with hands on experience in the project. Further guidance will be provided by the PI and you are encouraged to reach out outside & within the team of strong PhDs and students to successfully complete the objectives.
Type of internship: Master internship
Duration: 6 to 12 months
Required educational background: Chemistry/Chemical Engineering, Electrotechnics/Electrical Engineering, Materials Engineering, Nanoscience & Nanotechnology, Physics
University promotor: Christian Haffner
Supervising scientist(s): For further information or for application, please contact Andries Boelen (< e-mail verwijderd om veiligheidsredenen >) and Christian Haffner (< e-mail verwijderd om veiligheidsredenen >)
The reference code for this position is 2026-INT-072. Mention this reference code in your application.
Imec allowance will be provided.
Applications should include the following information:
Incomplete applications will not be considered.
At imec, we leverage high-quality materials grown on traditional silicon wafers to create advanced devices which have the potential to do single-photon conversion with high efficiency. Our aim is to develop a transducer based on electro-optic, and electro-opto-mechanical interactions, to convert single microwave photons into single infrared photons with unity efficiency.
Objective: For these transducer devices the performance of the incorporated electro-optical, or electro-opto-mechanical design is crucial. The project would be about the fabrication of electro-optic and electro-opto-mechanical devices to gain a better physical understanding of certain behaviours and draw conclusion that guide next device iterations.
Methodology: literature research, clean room work, analysing and interpreting data.
Expectations from the Candidate: Strong interest in quantum optics & mechanics. To bring a solution-oriented mindset with strong problem-solving ability. Independent way of working.
Candidate Profile: A background in quantum engineering, physics or electrical engineering. For full consideration, please ensure your application includes both an updated CV and a transcript of records from your master's program, showing the courses you have completed and the grades you have acquired so far.
Support and Guidance: Your daily interactions will be support by a PhD student with hands on experience in the project. Further guidance will be provided by the PI and you are encouraged to reach out outside & within the team of strong PhDs and students to successfully complete the objectives.
Type of internship: Master internship
Duration: 6 to 12 months
Required educational background: Chemistry/Chemical Engineering, Electrotechnics/Electrical Engineering, Materials Engineering, Nanoscience & Nanotechnology, Physics
University promotor: Christian Haffner
Supervising scientist(s): For further information or for application, please contact Andries Boelen (< e-mail verwijderd om veiligheidsredenen >) and Christian Haffner (< e-mail verwijderd om veiligheidsredenen >)
The reference code for this position is 2026-INT-072. Mention this reference code in your application.
Imec allowance will be provided.
Applications should include the following information:
- resume
- motivation
- current study transcript
Incomplete applications will not be considered.
