A Researcher in the field of Superconducting Quantum Sensors

Fondazione Bruno Kessler (FBK) is a private research institution devoted to excellence in research in numerous disciplines and designated to the role of keeping the Autonomous Province of Trento in the mainstream of European and international research. The Foundation’s research activities are structured into twelve research centers, each dedicated to a specific area. Information regarding the research centers, their activities and production is available at http://www.fbk.eu/research-centers.

Workplace

The FBK Center for Sensors and Devices (FBK-SD) is a research center that operates in the following scientific and technological areas: materials and interfaces, devices and microsystems, integrated systems, quantum sensors and quantum technologies. FBK-SD has extremely advanced technical know-how in materials science, innovative device design and microfabrication technologies.

The SQD Research Unit focuses on the development of superconducting quantum devices, from design and microfabrication in the FBK cleanroom facility to cryogenic characterisation and final experiments in a dedicated cryogenic laboratory. Such devices include superconducting parametric amplifiers, qubits and cryogenic detectors, based on Josephson junctions and high kinetic inductance devices. The applications span from circuit Quantum Electrodynamics (cQED) and microwave quantum optics experiments to quantum sensing, particle physics, and space applications.

FBK actively seeks diversity and inclusion in the workplace and is also committed to promoting gender equality. To promote the inclusion of disabled staff as per law 68/99, the Foundation is available and interested in evaluating the applications received for technical-scientific domains that do not correspond exactly to this call.

Job Description

The selected candidate will contribute to cutting-edge research in and development of superconducting sensors, with a specific focus on cryogenic detectors, including Transition Edge Sensors (TESs). This role offers a unique opportunity to engage in a comprehensive range of activities, from theoretical modelling and design to cryogenic measurements and experimental validation, within an innovative research environment.

The successful candidate will contribute to the following tasks:

● Designing and modelling advanced superconducting detectors, including Transition Edge Sensors (TESs).
● Developing and supervising microfabrication processes in state-of-the-art cleanroom facilities.
● Preparing and conducting cryogenic measurements of superconducting devices.
● Analyzing experimental data and interpreting results to advance scientific understanding.
● Preparing and writing high-quality scientific publications for peer-reviewed journals and conferences.
● Contributing to the preparation of competitive project proposals to secure future research funding.
● Collaborating effectively with an interdisciplinary team of researchers and engineers.

Job requirements

The ideal candidate should have:

● PhD or equivalent 3 years post-master experience in Physics;
● Good knowledge of the physics of superconductivity and cryogenic detectors;
● Research experience in the development of cryogenic detectors;
● Experience in cryogenic measurements with dilution refrigerators;
● Experience in planning and preparation of cryogenic set-ups;
● Excellent English, written and spoken;
● Strong sense of curiosity and willingness to learn and develop;
● Teamwork approach, good communication and relational skills;
● Strong orientation to results, determination, flexibility and aptitude for problem-solving.

Furthermore, the following elements will be positively evaluated:

● Specific expertise in the development and operation of Transition Edge Sensors;
● Publications in top-level venues in the field of superconducting devices and cryogenic detectors;
● Expertise in research in the context of national and European projects.

Employment

Type of contract: fixed-term contract
Working hours: Full time (38 h per week)
Start date: September 2026
Duration: 36 months with the possibility of extending the contract depending on funding
Workplace: Povo, Trento
Gross annual salary: about € 47.000, plus objectives achievements bonus
Benefits: flexi-time, company subsidized cafeteria or meal vouchers, internal car park, welcome officen support for visa formalities and for research in accommodation, accommodation etc., supplementary pension and health fund, social security (SANIFONDS), family-work balance, free training courses, support on bank account opening, discount on public transport, sport, language course fees, counseling and psychological support service.
More info at https://www.fbk.eu/en/work-with-us/

Application

Interested candidates are requested to submit their application by completing the online form (https://jobs.fbk.eu/).

Please make sure that your application contains the following attachments (in pdf format):

● Detailed CV including relevant past experiences (as an attached document in PDF format);
● Cover Letter (explaining your motivation for this specific position).

Application deadline: 03/06/2026

Please read our Recruitment Regulations before completing your application.

For further information or technical issues regarding the application, please contact the People Innovation for Research Department at jobs@fbk.eu.

Candidates who pass the preliminary curricula screening will be contacted shortly afterwards for an interview.

Non selected applicants will be notified of their exclusion at the end of the selection process.

Please note that FBK may contact shortlisted candidates within a period of 12 months, for the selection processes of similar vacancies.

For reasons of professional transparency, the name of the successful candidate will be published on the FBK website following acceptance of the position, as well the list of suitable candidates.