A postdoctoral position on quantum communication and Rydberg physics with ultracold Calcium gases is available at the Université catholique de Louvain (Belgium).

Your research work will explore the use of ultracold Ca Rydberg atoms for quantum communication, taking advantage of the presence of a second valence electron in that atomic species, as part of the Interreg program Secuweb. You will contribute to the theoretical design and/or final building phase of the experiment in order to establish a quantum repeater architecture and enable the characterization of the relevant atomic states and dynamics. You will help supervise younger researchers working on the project. The current team also pursues experimental and theoretical research that aims at directly cooling Ca Rydberg atoms with laser light for the first time (A. Bouillon, E. Marin-Bujedo and M. Génévriez, Phys. Rev. Lett. 132, 193402 2024) and producing exotic states of correlated, cold matter.

Requirements:

• PhD in experimental or theoretical atomic and molecular physics or equivalent
• Solid background in any of the following subjects: Rydberg atoms and molecules, laser cooling and trapping, lasers, quantum optics for quantum communication, cavity QED
• Publications in international, peer-reviewed journals
• Pro-active and curious. Able to design, perform and analyze experiments and/or theoretical calculations independently as well as in a team
• Good command of English (spoken and written) and strong communication skills

What we offer:

• 1-year fellowship (renewable). Candidates are encouraged to apply for their own fellowship, if possible.
• Net monthly salary: ca. 3000€ depending on seniority and family situation

Work environment:

• The group is part of the NAPS division at UCLouvain. Our labs are located in the pedestrian town of Louvain la Neuve, 20 km from Belgium and Europe's capital Brussels, and easily accessible by public transport. Both the group and division are highly international, English being the working language.
• You will join a young and dynamic team working on experimental and theoretical Rydberg physics and molecular physics, and have the opportunity to work on a high impact project with excellent training conditions. We aspire to create a lab culture where all feel welcome, regardless of age, race, gender or cultural background. Social gatherings and fun events are organized on a regular basis and contribute to the nice atmosphere of the group and of the division

How to apply

• Send a CV and cover letter to the PI (matthieu.genevriez@uclouvain.be) and arrange for 2 reference letters to be sent directly to the PI by email.
• Starting date: From the 15th of October 2026 onward. Application review will start on September 7th. Applications will be reviewed until the position is filled.