The Novo Nordisk Foundation Quantum Computing Programme (NQCP) is establishing a talented and diverse international team to create a cutting-edge quantum programme in the heart of Copenhagen, Denmark. At the Niels Bohr Institute, University of Copenhagen, where the formulation of Quantum Mechanics was born 100 years ago, we aim to establish an international quantum computing programme, funded by the Novo Nordisk Foundation, that will drive research and innovations at multiple levels - from developing scalable quantum processor technologies to solutions for the quantum-classical control and readout interface, and all the way to quantum algorithms and applications. The long-term mission of the programme is to develop fault-tolerant quantum computing hardware and quantum algorithms that solve life-science-relevant chemical and biological problems.
Role description In close collaboration with Quantum Foundry Copenhagen (QFC) and international partners, we aim to pioneer fabrication methods for state-of-the-art quantum processors. The results of this combined full-stack efforts will be tested and demonstrated in the publicly accessible quantum demonstrator, which is a central part of a new internationally unique quantum training laboratory at the Niels Bohr Institute.
You will be the lead on this quantum demonstrator project, and we expect you to drive the project forward. You will be at the heart of the NQCP and QFC activities working closely with several teams at NQCP. On the technical side you will work in close collaboration with several of our engineering teams and to demonstrate the abilities of the quantum processors you will work in close collaboration with the NQCP Education & Outreach (E&O) team. In addition, you will be coordinating collaboration efforts between leading quantum computing companies to fast track the demonstration of leading-edge error corrected quantum computing. For technical aspects you will report directly to the CEO of NQCP and QFC, and for the demonstration of the abilities you will report to the head of NQCP E&O.
Qualifications We imagine that you have a PhD in a relevant field and in-depth experimental experience with state-of-the-art qubit platforms. Leveraging works from several teams and project management come naturally to you, and you have the mindset and skills necessary to drive projects forward in a data-driven manner. You envision new solutions to problems and thrive in a collaborative and highly innovative environment with ambitious development timelines.
At this point in your career, you have a strong motivation to contribute to the advance of the quantum computing both through your own direct experimental work but also by connecting several teams’ efforts and by communicating the joined achievements.
Your work experience may be from a combination of academia and industry. You enjoy both diving into technical details with other experts, creating clear overview of complex processes and to use your excellent communication skills.
Why Us? Joining NQCP now, you will be involved from the very beginning and contribute to the fulfilment of the mission of NQCP. We want to make Denmark a world leader in quantum research, and we hope to attract people from all over the world.
Life in Denmark is supported with strong social services (free universal healthcare, free/subsidised language courses, paid parental leave, subsidised day care institutions and excellent public schools). Our work culture is very egalitarian and prioritises work life balance. Dual career families are the norm, and workplaces offer flexibility to support everyone in having both an exciting career and good family time. Danish cities are known for having excellent infrastructure, for example through widespread bike path networks. We can also offer a thriving food-scene, excellent museums, and beautiful natural scenery.
The University wishes our staff to reflect the diversity of society and thus welcomes applications from all qualified candidates regardless of personal background.
Terms of salary and employment The employment and salary are made in accordance with the Circular on the Collective Agreement concerning academics in the state sector concluded between the Ministry of Finance and AC (the Danish Confederation of Professional Associations).
Employment will be as academic officer or special consultant. The salary is based on seniority. Negotiation for salary supplement is possible. The working time is 37 hours per week on average and the working hours are flexible.
The position is limited in time until 31 December 2029.
Appointment will be subject to receipt of a security clearance.
Your application Please send an electronic application with attachment via Jobportalen (Click on the link "Apply Now" at the bottom of the post).
Please include:
- Curriculum vitae, including a short cover letter.
- Diplomas (Master and PhD degree or equivalent)
- Publication list (if relevant)
- References for professional experiences
The application, in English, must be submitted electronically by clicking APPLY NOW below.
The deadline for applications is 27 July, 2025, 23:59 GMT +2. After the expiry of the deadline for applications, the authorized recruitment manager selects applicants for assessment on the advice of the Interview Committee.
Further information For further information please contact Peter Krogstrup (
krogstrup@nbi.ku.dk) or Kim Splittorff (
split@nbi.ku.dk)
The Faculty of Science at the University of Copenhagen – or SCIENCE – is Denmark's largest science research and education institution with 4,000 employees and 9,700 Bachelor and master students in 12 departments. The faculty has an annual budget of DKK 3 billion.
Learn more about The Faculty of Science at www.science.ku.dk
You can read about the recruitment process at
http://employment.ku.dk/faculty/recruitment-process/