WiQO – Women in Quantum Optics Postdoc ProgramTo expand on their research in the interdisciplinary field of quantum science and to promote the career of excellent early stage female scientists, the Max Planck Institute of Quantum Optics (MPQ) founded the Postdoc Program for Women in Quantum Optics (WiQO). In the framework of this program, research and educational activities take in the broad field of quantum and laser physics with interfaces to industry. The WiQO program supports each candidate’s development at her respective career stage and offers professional training that matches her individual career path. Please find further information at https://www.mpq.mpg.de/6833573/wiqo-women-in-quantum-opticsSuccessful candidates will have the opportunity to take advantage of the institute’s unique expertise in the field of quantum optics and laser science, access to international networks and excellent research facilities. Applications should address one of the following scientific core areas:

Attosecond Physics

Laser Physics and Spectroscopy

Nonlinear Optics

Quantum Chemistry

Quantum Computing

Quantum Dynamics

Quantum Information Theory

Quantum Many Body Systems

Quantum Networks

Quantum Optics

Quantum Sensing and Metrology

Quantum Simulation & Quantum Computing

Ultrafast Science for Biomedicine

We offer:MPQ is looking for excellent early-stage career female candidates and offers, on a yearly basis:

A two-year postdoctoral fellowship based at the Max Planck Institute of Quantum Optics

A fixed-term employment contract according to TVöD for 2 years (public sector employment, E14) with flexible working conditions

Advancement of your scientific excellence by leading a research project under the guidance of outstanding scientists

Depending on the candidate’s research area, insight into and collaboration with the initiatives the MPQ is currently involved in: Attoworld, the Munich Quantum Valley, and the cluster of excellence Munich Center for Quantum Science and Technology (MCQST)

An additional budget for specific equipment

Professional external coaching in the framework of a postdoc specific career-building program

Participation in the Minerva FemmeNet postdoc mentoring scheme to benefit from the experience of highly qualified female scientists*

Active participation in postdoc networking events to increase your scientific visibility and to promote future interdisciplinary collaborations

Seminars and training in the field of project management, science communication, entrepreneurship, career planning, leadership qualifications and work-life balance

Organisation and implementation of distinguished speaker seminars

Support in the preparation and submission of research proposals

Childcare & reconciliation support (family office, reimbursement of childcare costs due to business travels etc)

Successful candidates will have the opportunity to take advantage of the institute’s unique expertise in the field of quantum optics and laser science, access to international networks and excellent research facilities.Application process:After the application deadline (February 15, 2024), the MPQ Board of Directors will select the WiQO Fellow.In a two-stage selection process, candidates who successfully passed the first stage (spring 2024) will be invited to the MPQ Postdoc Interview Days mid 2024. Selection criteria are scientific excellence and an original research proposal. The starting date of the fellowship is flexible and should be within one year after application.All applications must be made through the online application system, letters of reference need to be sent directly to the application office () prior to the deadline.*The MPQ considers itself as an inclusive and diversity-oriented employer and welcomes applications of all qualified female applicants independently of their ethnicity, age, religion, sexual orientation, national origin or disabilities. Our offer is also explicitly aimed at trans-women and non-binary people who clearly identify as women.Please contact Mrs. Miriam Lorenz in case of any further questions:Max-Planck-Institute of Quantum Optics
Hans-Kopfermann Str. 1
85748 Garching, Germany