Tenure track position for a Researcher in the field of quantum technologies, specifically quantum optics and material engineering. This position is partially funded by the Piano Nazionale di Ripresa e Resilienza (PNRR) initiative.


 

Funding reference 

Fondo IPCEI ME/CT – Microelectronics - Continuation

ID: IPCEI-M2 0000006 - CUP C63C23001090006

Decreto di concessione n. 205 del 10/04/2024

Intervento del PNRR M4C2-12.1

 

Responsabile del Procedimento: Alessandro Dalla Torre 

 

Tenure track position for a Researcher in the field of quantum technologies, specifically quantum optics and material engineering. This position is partially funded by the Piano Nazionale di Ripresa e Resilienza (PNRR) initiative.

 

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. Each research area is assigned to a specific research centre, of which there are eleven totals. Information regarding the research centres, their activities and production is available at http://www.fbk.eu/research-centers.

 

Workplace Description

 

The position available is in the FBK Centre for Sensors and Devices. 

FBK-SD is an applied research centre that operates in the following scientific and technological areas: materials and interfaces, devices and micro-systems, integrated systems. FBK-SD has extremely advanced technical know-how in applied materials science, as well as innovative detector design and fabrication technologies. The strategic mission of FBK-SD is scientific excellence combined with the ability to exploit research results. The innovation model is open to collaboration in national and international expertise networks. More information is available at https://sd.fbk.eu/en/

 

Background information and description of research projects

 

This position is offered within the IPCEI ME/CT project.

In the IPCEI ME/CT project, FBK intends to significantly expand and improve its manufacturing and

integration facilities to achieve high-level and reliable heterogeneous production capabilities to

maximise research and competitiveness in the market. In IPCEI ME 1, FBK is developing the 3D

integration platform applied to SiPM and SPAD TECHNOLOGIES. Exploiting the results of IPCEI ME 1,

the project will mainly work on the integration of new materials (Silicon Carbide &

Germanium-on-Silicon) and hetero-integration to extend the capabilities of already established

silicon platforms.

 

Depending on organizational needs, the selected candidate may also be involved in additional activities or projects within the Centre.

 

Job Description

 

The purpose of FBK’s Tenure Track program is to offer high level professionals the opportunity of pursuing a structured career path to become a tenured Researcher and contribute to the long-term strategy of the organization. Within this framework, FBK-SD is looking to hire a Researcher to support the strategic development and implementation of activities within the IPCEI ME/CT project. 

The role requires expertise in quantum science and technology, with focus on quantum optics and material engineering. The position will contribute to strengthening FBK’s role in the European research and industrial quantum ecosystem by research into topological quantum optics.

The successful candidate will contribute to the following tasks:

  • Explore new materials with novel topological characteristics for quantum optics and information applications;
  • Contribute to research activities in line with personal expertise and the strategic direction of the SD Centre;
  • Contribute to the research activities of the SD Centre in particular complimentary to the superconducting quantum devices and diamond quantum pilot lines and the photonic integrated circuits pilot line projects and support the implementation of team needs and research opportunities;
  • Identify strategic potential project concepts which can have a high success rate for quantum research activities of the SD Centre;
  • Collaborate in the communication and dissemination activity and in increasing the presence of the SD Centre.

Depending on organizational needs, the selected candidate may also be involved in additional activities or projects within the Centre. 

Job responsibilities

The successful candidate will work within the Direzione of the FBK-SD center and her/his responsibilities will include: 

  • Developing and leading the research activities in the field of quantum technologies, specifically quantum optics and material engineering.
  • Creating synergies between units and existing research activities on related topics in the SD centre, and with other FBK centres, in particular in liaison with the FBK ECT* centre.
  • Identify strategic potential project concepts which can have a high success rate for quantum research activities of the SD Centre;
  • Contributing to the strategic direction of the centre;
  • Collaborate in the communication and dissemination activity and in increasing the presence of the SD Centre.

Job requirements

The ideal candidate should have:

  • PhD in Physics or Engineering;
  • Candidates will need to have at least 8 years of experience, including their PhD.
  • A track record of high impact in the quantum science & technology area;
  • Strong research background in quantum optics with focus on 2D materials;
  • Background in material engineering, in particular with nanoengineering of 2D materials
  • Expertise in spectroscopic characterisation techniques;
  • Knowledge of nanofabrication techniques;
  • Excellent knowledge of the EU Programs;
  • Very good understanding of the research sector, especially from a European perspective;
  • Experience in working for research projects;
  • Language assessment according to the Common European Framework of Reference for Languages (CEFR): level of knowledge required. Knowledge of English will be verified during the interview on a technical or scientific topic and must be equal to or exceed level B2. Definitions of levels can be found at the following link https://www.coe.int/en/web/common-european-framework-reference-languages/level-descriptions;
  • Pronounced abilities in prioritizing tasks and effective time management;
  • Strong intercultural communication skills;
  • 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:

  • Knowledge of both written and spoken Italian
 

Employment

Type of contract: Tenure Track contract, leading to an FBK 2nd Level Researcher (R2) permanent contract 

Working hours: full-time (38 h per week)

Start date: November 2026

Duration: The duration of the Tenure Track contract will be determined by the Committee based on the scientific objectives and the assigned KPIs (at least one year, which may be reduced in accordance with the Committee assessment on the candidate's abilities and skills). The scientific objectives will be linked to IPCEI ME/CT project objectives. If the final assessment of the Tenure Track experience is positive, the selected candidate for the tenure track position will be offered a permanent R2 contract.

Contract type: CCPL Research Foundation Personnel (https://trasparenza.fbk.eu/ita/Personale/Contrattazione-collettiva/Rinnovo-CCPL-delle-Fondazioni) 

the current gross annual remuneration is Euro 60.138,75 corresponding to a Second Level Researcher

Workplace: Povo, Trento (Italy)

Benefits: flexi-time, company subsidized cafeteria or meal vouchers, internal car park, welcome office support for visa formalities and for research in accommodation, supplementary pension (Resaver, Laborfonds) and health fund (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/

The Bruno Kessler Foundation invests in people’s growth and promotes a stimulating environment that values talent. Through the Talent Development Program, each participant will be engaged in a tailored experiential journey designed to enhance skills, attitudes, and aspirations. In line with this commitment, we offer a structured Scientific Research career path specifically designed for this tenure-track position. This journey provides concrete tools for professional growth, including personalized assessments to develop individual potential and a clear evolutionary roadmap that supports the transition from independent research to scientific leadership. Within our dynamic and innovative environment, development strategies are integrated with the researcher's path to help shape the future, ensuring that academic autonomy is always paired with institutional support and opportunities for international impact.

 

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 a list of publications;
  • cover letter explaining your motivation for this specific position;
  • statement of Research Interests.
 

Application deadline: August 25th, 2026

 

Selection process and assessment criteria

The Evaluating Committee will be appointed by the Foundation's Secretary General at the end of the application deadline. 

The commission must meet the conditions provided by the guidelines PNRR and Tenure Track procedure, which consists of: an external expert to the Foundation, recognized in the technical-scientific and disciplinary fields relevant to the Call for the Tenure Track Position; the Head of the People Innovation for Research Service; the Head of Research Assessment; two of the Foundation's Center Directors engaged in the disciplinary domain related to the Call for Tenure Tracks; the Head of the Research Enhancement Special Purpose Unit, or their delegates.

The recruiting process will be handled in accordance with the “Gender and generational equal opportunities, as well as the employment inclusion of people with disabilities in public contracts financed with the resources of the PNRR and PNC” guidelines  and with the Foundation's Gender Equality Plan.

The short-list shall be compiled based on the requirements set out in the call (contained in the requirements of the job description), with the support of the screening of CVs and any other required documents.  

Candidates with a minimum score will be admitted to the interview phase. Shortlisted candidates must do at least one interview with the Institutional Committee. 

 

In case of specific need, the Selection Committee can also meet remotely, by teleconference or videoconference, provided that all members can be identified and that they are able to follow and intervene in the discussion, as well as to receive, transmit and view documents.

During the evaluation step, evaluation support tools such as tests or questionnaires may be used. Furthermore, group tests and/or practical tests may be administered.

 

Evaluation criteria 

The selection process includes two evaluation moments led by the Commission: the screening and the interview phase.

The screening process will be based on the evaluation of the qualifications and expertise that the candidate expresses on the resume. A maximum of 40 points will be allocated to this assessment phase and only candidates obtaining at least 25 points will be admitted to the interview. 

The interview scores will be assigned to candidates by the Commission according to the following criteria: the presentation of their personal research profile; the knowledge about the scientific domain, the experience in working for research projects and the language skills.

A maximum of 60 points will be allocated to this assessment phase. The interview is considered as “passed” if the applicant obtains at least 45 points.

The final score will be used to generate the final suitability list for each job position.

 

Results of the selection process

All candidates will be notified via email once the selection process has been completed.

The suitability list may be used to fill the position in case the successful candidate doesn’t accept the job offer.  

At the website https://jobs.fbk.eu/ in the "Selection results" section, will be published the details of the selection process and the final results. 

 

Diversity & Inclusion policy 

FBK actively seeks diversity and promotes inclusion in the workplace. The main aims of the FBK Diversity & Inclusion policy are to:

  • promote gender equality across the research domains and on all levels by encouraging qualified female candidates to apply for job positions and by implementing specific improvements and measures as stated in the Gender Equality Plan (GEP) 
  • foster young talents development by offering opportunities to grow
  • become a disability-inclusive organization by encouraging applications from candidates with a disability (Law 68/99). We provide special assistance to applicants during the recruitment procedure and reasonable arrangements for disabled staff 
  • promote a healthy work-life balance by offering a package of flexible working arrangements and facilities (telework, individual working time, parental leave, etc).
 

The FBK operates in compliance with current legislation concerning fixed-term contracts. Candidates with disabilities are invited to state whether they belong to the categories referred to in Law 68/99, and to indicate this in the curriculum vita sent in application for recruitment.

 

Processing of personal data

Pursuant to art. 13 of EU Regulation No. 2016/679 (GDPR), we inform you that your personal data shall be processed for the management of the selection process and of the obligations connected to it, through manual, electronic and informatic means and will be guaranteed within privacy and security standards as indicated in the full privacy policy.

In order to ensure and respect the principles of publicity, transparency and impartiality, the name of the successful candidate and the names of suitable candidates will be published on the FBK website following acceptance of the position.

 

For further information, please contact  the People Innovation for Research Department at jobs@fbk.eu.