Characterization Engineer at the NNF Quantum Computing Programme Part-time

NQCP Engineer Position

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.

NQCP is looking for an engineer to support our material characterization efforts, starting 1st April 2026 or after agreement. You will be working across multiple quantum platforms, enacting characterization protocols for our novel materials and reliably and precisely extracting relevant metrics. This will be done in close collaboration with the materials growth and fabrication teams as well as various international partners from industry and academia.

Qualifications

The successful candidate will have some of the following qualifications:

• PhD in physics, engineering, materials science or related
• Experience with scanning tunneling microscopy, both at room and cryogenic temperatures
• Experience with synchrotron-based measurement techniques e.g. XPS, ARPES
• Experience with process engineering concepts, automation and data logging.
• Good communication skills and ability to work in a complex research program.

Joining NQCP now, you will contribute to the fulfilment of the mission of NQCP. 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 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 a academic officer or a special consultant. The salary is based on seniority. Negotiation for salary supplement is possible. The working hours are 37 hours per week on average and the working hours are flexible. The position is limited in time to 2 years from the date of employment. Appointment will be subject to receipt of a security clearance.

If you find one of the above job areas interesting, please send an electronic application with attachment via KU Jobportalen (Click on the link “Apply for Position” at the bottom of the post) no later than 28th February 2026 23:59 CET.

Please include:

• Curriculum vitae, including a short cover letter.
• Diplomas (Masters degree or equivalent)
• Publication list (if relevant)

For further information please contact Jim Webb ( james.webb@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