Quantum Optics Scientist - QPU Prototyping

About Quandela: Quandela is a European scale-up that provides photonic quantum computers that are modular, scalable, energy-efficient, and accessible both on the cloud and on-premise. Our team of 140 employees specialises in the development of both software and hardware solutions for a variety of quantum applications. We offer a wide range of services: from building the brightest single-photon sources, to designing algorithms for quantum computers, to providing cloud quantum computing access. Quandela plays a pivotal role as a strategic partner in the quantum transformation of industrial sectors such as energy, finance, pharmaceuticals, and transportation. We are also esteemed collaborators within the academic and research community About this position: You will join the QPU Prototyping team, the group that builds the optical heart of Quandela’s quantum processors. They design and stabilize photon-based modules, from interferometers and correlation benches to single-photon sources, that make scalable quantum computing possible. You’ll work where precision meets performance: at the intersection of quantum optics research and operational hardware. We are opening a Quantum Optics Scientist position to accelerate the transition from advanced quantum optics experiments to stable, integrated hardware within our QPUs. You’ll help the team scale our systems from research prototypes to operational processors - pushing performance, reproducibility, and stability across the stack. Why This Role Matters? Your experiments don’t end at the bench : they run inside real quantum computers. You’ll translate quantum optics into stable, cloud-ready QPU modules. Every setup you stabilize, every drift you eliminate, every fidelity gain you achieve moves the roadmap forward: from 6 → 12 → 24+ qubit systems. You’ll help us cross the bridge from experimental setups to robust processors that support feedforward and error correction. This role defines how quantum theory becomes quantum reality - one module at a time. What will you do? > Build & improve QPU modules: Prototype and operate quantum optics modules Design, assemble, align, measure, and stabilize complex free-space and fibered optical systems. Integrate into the QPU Bring modules online, debug, optimize, and validate against spec. Hand over with clear procedures and test plans. Improve performance Once integrated, track loss and drift, isolate noise sources, and implement fixes that hold - pushing qubit fidelity and system stability forward, while contributing to next-generation QPUs with new features. > Tools & knowledge sharing: Code for the lab Develop pragmatic Python tools for acquisition, calibration, and analysis (scripts, utilities, quick plots) - tools your teammates actually reuse. Document & collaborate Work full-stack with peers (optics, electronics, semiconductors, software). Leave behind clear lab notes and protocols so others can run the system without you. --- How You’ll Grow? 0–3 months: own a bench; deliver your first doc pack (procedure + checklist + Python tools), complete a characterization. 3–6 months: own one module from V0 to QPU integration; hit targets on loss/stability, standardize tests. 6-12 months: own multiple modules or a QPU area, contribute to planning, and trade-offs (Quality/Cost/Schedule). --> Next steps ? mentor juniors, lead projects, step into Optics Lead. --- What We’re Looking For ? Must-Have: Quantum optics experiments: demonstrated experience in photon-based quantum systems — e.g. correlations, Hong–Ou–Mandel interference, indistinguishability, or related setups. Hands-on experimental optics: complex design, alignment, metrology, stabilization of free-space or fibered optical systems. Python for the lab: acquisition, calibration, analysis, quick plotting (scripts that accelerate experimental work). Documentation discipline: feedback, procedures, and reproducible test protocols. Important (can grow here): Basic electronics for the bench: safe operation, light soldering, DAQ, drivers. Semiconductor awareness: quantum-dot sources, couplings, packaging. Bonus: Experience with PICs, cryogenics, optimal control, or firmware/FPGA. *Languages: English professional level required. --- Examples of backgrounds we value: For this role, we’re looking for a PhD-level scientist experienced in quantum optics and complex optical systems, capable of turning experimental setups into stable, operational hardware modules within quantum computing systems. Experimental quantum optics scientist (PhD) with hands-on experience in photon correlations, interference (HOM), or indistinguishability measurements, eager to turn lab experiments into product-grade hardware. Photonic or laser systems engineer with robust bench skills and pragmatic Python, having worked on quantum or single-photon optical systems. Research-trained experimentalist who has transitioned quantum optics modules from laboratory prototype to operational handover within larger systems. Remuneration: €57.5k gross — indicative entry for PhD + 1–2 years (operational on bench + Python + documentation). €60–65k gross — PhD + 4–5 years (leading modules/projects, allocating resources, coordinating peers, shaping roadmap impact). Profit-sharing & company savings plan, 100% health coverage (Alan), Swile meal vouchers, transport/mobility support, Gymlib And above all ... Quandela is where rigor meets vision: where experiments evolve into machines, and machines into breakthroughs. What you create doesn’t vanish after the test — it endures in quantum processors that deliver stable qubits and enable the next generation of applications. If you’re ready to do makes tomorrow’s quantum computing possible, one module at a time, in a pioneering deeptech environment, let’s speak 😊