Position Details

Within the Computational Nano Optics research group, located within the department Modeling and Simulation of Complex Processes, we are offering a position starting as soon as possible, 2026, on a part-time basis (29,55 hours per week), limited until December 31, 2029. If the applicant meets the relevant wage requirements and personal qualifications, the salary will be based on remuneration group 13 TV-L of the pay scale for the German public sector.

Background & Context

The Computational Nano Optics research group focuses on development and application of numerical methods for modeling, simulation, and optimization of nanophotonic devices. Single-photon sources of highest quality and yield are essential for quantum technology applications, in particular, in long-range communication in quantum repeater networks, in quantum metrology, and in quantum computing schemes. Nanostructured environments in the form of nanoresonators boost the otherwise low efficiencies of quantum dipole emitters. Numerical simulation and optimization are essential for the design of these nanoresonators. A full quantum-electrodynamical (QED) description of quantum dipole emitters including their interaction with nanostructures and light is not practical due to complexity. Instead, the classical Maxwell equations are often solved, particularly for the optimization of nanostructures. QED and classical Maxwell calculations can be linked, as both treatments yield identical results for key quantities such as the Purcell factor.

Within the framework of a MATH+ collaborative project of Humboldt University of Berlin and ZIB, the aim is to develop and advance the numerical treatment of microscopic light emitters in resonant photonic environments. The advertised position is part of these activities.

The successful candidate will work closely with the project team and with further collaboration partners. The position offers an opportunity to contribute to the active field of photonic quantum technologies and actively help shape the scientific advancement of the field, in particular with respect to modeling, simulation, and optimization.

Your Tasks

Development of models and simulation setups for nanoscale particles with tailored material models acting as quantum dipole emitters
Investigation of numerical convergence with respect to finite-element method parameters
Testing of recently developed GPU-based sparse direct solvers and benchmark their performance
Design and optimization of realistic quantum technology devices
Publication of research results in peer-reviewed journals and presentation of these results at international conferences

Your Profile

A completed master’s degree in mathematics, physics, or in a related field
Profound knowledge in numerics for PDEs and optimization
Very good programming skills
Good command of spoken and written English

What you can expect

We offer a friendly work environment with flexible work and meeting times, excellent equipment and a challenging professional environment as well as:

A varied, forward-looking and responsible role in an exciting research environment
Professional training opportunities and support in professional development
An additional pension scheme (VBL)
30 days annual leave, flexible working hours (flexitime)
A salary based on TV-L (collective agreement for the public service of the federal states) in accordance with qualifications and professional experience with annual bonus payment
Capital allowance of up to € 150 per month, or alternatively a BVG job ticket plus the remaining balance
Discounted access to the canteens and sports programs of the Freie Universität Berlin (FUB), thanks to our close cooperation with the university

Please apply via our online application form by November 27, 2026, submitting your complete application including curriculum vitae in tabular form and the standard supporting documents.

Contact

For further information about the position, please refer to our website or contact Dr. Felix Binkowski () or Dr. Sven Burger ().

About us

The Zuse Institute Berlin (ZIB) is an interdisciplinary research institute of the State of Berlin, combining artificial intelligence and scientific computing with applied mathematics and high-performance computing. Together with partners from academia, technology and industry, we develop computational methods to address challenges of societal relevance and provide state-of-the-art infrastructure for high-performance computing, artificial intelligence and data management.