The Institut d’Optique Graduate School (IOGS) and quantum computing company Pasqal have launched a new five-year research chair focused on neutral atom quantum computing. The position will be based at the Laboratoire Charles Fabry (LCF) and is funded by Pasqal, a spin-off from the laboratory.

The research chair will be located at the joint IOGS-CNRS-Pasqal laboratory in Palaiseau, near Paris. The selected researcher will work on improving Pasqal’s quantum processing units in collaboration with LCF’s Quantum Optics group and Pasqal’s hardware R&D team.

“This partnership connects academic research with industry, supporting progress in quantum computing,” said Dr. Patrick Georges, Director of LCF.

About the Institutions

Founded in 1917, IOGS is a leader in optics and photonics research and education. It is part of Université Paris-Saclay and has research centers in Paris-Saclay, Bordeaux, and Saint-Étienne. LCF is one of its three major laboratories, focusing on photonics and quantum physics. Pasqal, with around 300 employees worldwide, specializes in neutral atom quantum processors. The company builds quantum computing platforms based on laser-controlled atomic systems.

The appointed researcher will:

• Develop experimental setups to improve Pasqal’s quantum processors.
• Work closely with LCF’s Quantum Optics group and Pasqal’s R&D team.
• Publish research and present findings at conferences.
• Supervise students and junior researchers.
• Participate in limited teaching activities (~50 hours per year).
• The position includes a research budget and the opportunity to build and manage a small research team. The experience can lead to opportunities in both academia and industry after the five-year term.

How to apply:

Interested candidates should submit a CV, cover letter, and contact information for at least two references to:

• Dr. Patrick Georges, LCF Director: patrick.georges@institutoptique.fr
• Dr. Fabien Quéré, Lead of Academic Partnerships at Pasqal: fabien.quere@pasqal.com

Applications will be reviewed on a rolling basis until the position is filled.

Find more information about the position here: Research Chair.pdf

This initiative strengthens the connection between research and industry, contributing to advancements in quantum computing.