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The German Aerospace Center (DLR) is the national aeronautics and space research centre and the space agency of the Federal Republic of Germany. Here, 10,000 employees work together on a unique variety of topics in the fields of aeronautics, space, energy, transport, security and digitalisation. Their missions range from basic research to the development of innovative applications and products for tomorrow. Cutting-edge research requires excellent minds – particularly more females – at all levels, who fully achieve their potential in an inspiring environment. Launch your mission with us.

For our Institute of Quantum Technologies in Ulm, we are currently looking for a

Physicist or engineer quantum technology or similar (f/m/x)
Development of security and identification protocols for secure quantum communication

Your mission:
The DLR Institute of Quantum Technologies in Ulm aims to develop precision instruments for space applications based on quantum technologies and to bring them to prototype maturity together with industry. It thus builds a bridge between basic research and industry. Together with the Institute for Satellite Geodesy and Inertial Sensing in Hanover and the Galileo Competence Centre in Oberpfaffenhofen, the Institute in Ulm plays a pioneering role in these fields of research and application. The research work of its four core departments Quantum Metrology, Quantum Information and Communication, Quantum Nanophysics and Quantum Control of Charged Matter Waves is complemented and supported by the three cross-sectional departments Quantum Engineering, Integration of Micro- and Nanosystems and Theoretical Quantum Physics. The institute has an interdisciplinary orientation: Theoretical basic research and experimental tests meet engineering implementation.

In the department of Theoretical Quantum Physics, we are looking for a research associate in the group "Quantum Simulations and Applications" to analyse and develop security protocols using entangled quantum systems. In collaboration with our project partners, you will analyse and develop suitable quantum identification and quantum authentication algorithms. In particular, you will design a forgery-proof quantum key card and simulate possible application scenarios. Contribute to this innovative project and pave the way for new technologies in the field of quantum communication. Take on a central role in the exchange with the project partners involved and support networking with relevant stakeholders at DLR.

Your contribution to this project includes the following tasks:

• You will conduct research in the field of quantum communication and develop security protocols to protect secured, highly sensitive areas.
• You will design quantum algorithms, in particular for the development of innovative quantum technologies such as forgery-proof quantum key cards.
• You will be responsible for individual work packages within the project and supervise students and doctoral candidates.
• You will document research results in project reports, studies and scientific publications and present them at national and international conferences and seminars
• You will transfer theoretical concepts and approaches to technological developments and contribute to the usability of the results achieved
• You contribute to the research activities of the other departments of the QT Institute and other DLR institutes.
• You will prepare research proposals and project applications for third-party funding.

A prerequisite for employment at DLR is security clearance in accordance with the German Security Clearance Act (SÜG) and the willingness to undergo a security clearance in accordance with §8 ff SÜG.

Your qualifications:
• completed scientific university degree (Master/Diploma Uni) in physics or other courses of study relevant to the position
• proof of the ability to work independently and in a structured scientific manner, e.g. through a doctorate and coordination of project contributions
• in-depth knowledge and many years of professional experience in the field of theoretical physics, in particular quantum physics from scientific work
• many years of professional experience in the field of quantum information
• in-depth knowledge of quantum communication and its use for identification and authentication procedures
• sound experience in the use of mathematical and scientific application software (Matlab, Mathematica etc.)
• proficiency in programming languages and methods (C, Python etc.)
• proof of ability to supervise doctoral students, e.g. by supervising students in university teaching
• methodological skills in project planning are an advantage
• ideally business fluent in written and spoken English and German
• ability to work in a team of scientists and technicians is an advantage

Your benefits:
Look forward to a fulfilling job with an employer who appreciates your commitment and supports your personal and professional development. Our unique infrastructure offers you a working environment in which you have unparalleled scope to develop your creative ideas and accomplish your professional objectives. Our human resources policy places great value on a healthy family and work-life-balance as well as equal opportunities for persons of all genders (f/m/x). Individuals with disabilities will be given preferential consideration in the event their qualifications are equivalent to those of other candidates.

If you have any questions concerning specific aspects of the job, please contact Dr. Matthias Zimmermann by calling +49 731 400198-118. Please find further information on this vacancy with the reference number 87630, and details regarding the remuneration and the application procedure, at www.DLR.de/dlr/jobs/#52065