Photonic Integrated Circuits Characterisation Intern (H1/2027)

Quandela stands as a global leader in quantum computing, driven by groundbreaking technology and a strategic vision for scaling quantum solutions. The company’s unique ability to offer both hardware and software solutions, along with its commitment to build energy efficient datacentres and scalability, positions it to play a key role in the next wave of innovation, and in many strategic and sovereign industrial sectors.​

Join Us at the Forefront of Quantum Computing Innovation 🚀​

This internship will take place within the Photonic Integrated Circuits (PIC) team at Quandela. The team works on the production and development of optical processors used in Quandela's QPUs, playing a central role in their performance and scalability.

The PIC team covers several aspects of photonic chip development. Part of the team focuses on the design of next-generation PICs, typically carrying out electromagnetic and thermal simulations and preparing layouts for fabrication in collaboration with external foundries. Simultaneously, the team continuously improves upon previous photonic building blocks through iterative fabrication and in-house characterisation. 

Characterisation is a critical activity at multiple points in the PIC production process: evaluating individual components, validating production-ready chips (both electrically and optically) and testing them post-packaging. The characterisation team also typically perform the optical packaging required to connect the chip to the rest of the QPU. 

This internship will be focused on the characterisation activities of the PIC team, directly contributing to the evaluation and optimisation of photonic components and systems. 

Depending on your prior experience and the duration of the internship, you can expect to be involved in some of the following activities:

• Optical measurement of PICs using standard bulk-optics and fibre components, manual and motorised stages, CW lasers, polarisation control and driving electronics
• Electrical probing of PICs using DC and RF probes
• Optical packaging of PICs
• Python scripting for measurement automation and data analysis
• CAD design for fabrication of mechanical pieces to complement the existing setups
• Development of electronics for equipment control

• Enrolment for the duration of the internship in a MSc in Physics, Telecom/ Electronics Engineering, Photonics, Quantum Technology or a closely related field. This position is only valid with an Intern Agreement.
• General knowledge of how a photonic integrated circuit works, what some of the main integrated components are, which figures of merit are typically used to benchmark photonic devices and how this characterisation is performed
• Demonstrable experience using standard optics/ photonics laboratory equipment  such as lasers, bulk optics, optical fibres, micro positioning stages etc.
• Python scripting proficiency including standard data analysis libraries and packages, experience in using python for equipment control and experimental automation is a plus
• Strong data analysis skills
• Excellent problem solving skills
• Strong scientific communication skills in English, ability to collaborate effectively in a multidisciplinary team
• Capable of working independently in a lab environment after sufficient training

• Swile Card (meal vouchers) 🍴🛒

• 50% participation in transportation costs 🚆

• Possibility of remote work 💻
• Internship Allowance between €1,200 and €1,400 per month 💰

• 1,5 days off per month, cumulative 🧳

What we also offer

A challenging and innovative work environment at the heart of quantum computing. 

A diverse and collaborative company culture. 

Opportunities for professional growth and skill development. 

At Quandela, we believe that the strength of our team is the plurality of experiences, perspectives, and journeys. We are committed to building a respectful, inclusive, and welcoming work environment. All applications are welcome.