Quantum Systems Researcher

Organisation/Company IMEC Research Field Physics Researcher Profile Recognised Researcher (R2) Positions PhD Positions Final date to receive applications 19 Apr 2026 - 10:57 (Europe/Brussels) Country Belgium Type of Contract Permanent Job Status Full-time Is the job funded through the EU Research Framework Programme? Not funded by a EU programme Is the Job related to staff position within a Research Infrastructure? No

What you will do

As a Quantum Systems Researcher
, you will help shape next-generation quantum technologies including diamond color-center platforms, Rydberg sensors, and chip-scale atomic clocks for applications spanning aerospace, defense, and security. Working within a multidisciplinary team, you will design, simulate, and experimentally validate advanced quantum systems enabling compact, energy-efficient, and manufacturable precision sensing and timing. Your responsibilities will include:

• Conceptualizing and architecting quantum systems such as diamond color-center devices, Rydberg sensors, and chip-scale atomic clocks.
• Modelling and simulating system performance incorporating key quantum mechanisms with various simulation tools and validating those models against experimental data.
• Assessing architectural feasibility and performance using validated models to guide system design choices.
• Translating system-level specifications into device-level requirements to support integrated photonic (PIC) and electronic (EIC) design teams.
• Conducting experimental system-level characterization and validation using both integrated photonic circuits and discrete optical/electronic components.
• Documenting technical findings and contributing to publications and reports.
• Ph.D. in Physics, Electrical Engineering, or a related field with postdoctoral or industry experience preferred.
• Strong understanding of the relevant quantum mechanisms and architectures (e.g., diamond color-center systems, Rydberg sensors, and/or atomic clocks).
• Demonstrated experience in system-level modelling, simulation, model-data validation (required)
• Hands-on lab experience working with quantum sensing and/or timing systems (diamond color-center, Rydberg, and/or atomic clock systems)
• Experience with integrated photonic circuits (Silicon, SiN, III‑V) is a plus.
• Self-starter with excellent problem-solving and communication skills
• Well organized and capable of thinking ahead to plan and execute projects effectively.

What we do for you

We offer a challenging environment at the forefront of technology, in an international network of renowned industrial customers. This is your opportunity to bring new technologies to the market that will have an impact on tomorrow’s society.

Imec, as an employer of choice, offers you an attractive compensation and benefits package including a 100% employer-paid pension plan and flexible working hours. Furthermore, imec offers a wide range of training possibilities. For international candidates, we provide support in the relocation process.

By joining the R&D team in Leuven, you will be part of a team of disruptive innovators and thinkers. Together, with our researchers and engineers, you will work on a variety of topics, including healthcare, agrifood, mobility and communications. We invite you to be part of our ambitious team where your ideas will have an impact on our society and our future lives.