Applications are invited for a PhD fellowship/scholarship at Graduate School of Natural Sciences, Aarhus University, Denmark, within the Physics and Astronomy programme. The position is available from August 2026 or later.
Title:
Experiments with Strongly Interacting Quantum Systems
Research area and project description:
Understanding strongly interacting quantum systems remains one of the central challenges of modern physics. In this PhD project, you will explore such many-body quantum systems by studying mixtures of ultracold atoms at temperatures close to absolute zero.
Our research group experimentally creates and investigates atomic gases at extremely low temperatures, where they form exceptionally clean quantum systems known as Bose–Einstein condensates (BECs). These systems can be probed with unprecedented precision, allowing us to gain deep insights into quantum mechanics in complex many-body settings. This approach—known as quantum simulation—pushes the boundaries of our understanding of quantum matter.
In recent work, we have used BECs of potassium atoms to simulate the behavior of electrons in solids. By embedding a small number of impurity atoms into a condensate, we can emulate key electronic properties. In future experiments, we aim to study strongly interacting impurities with well-defined initial velocities. Their motion will modify the superfluid response of the surrounding BEC, opening up a rich and largely unexplored regime of quantum simulation.
We are seeking an enthusiastic and motivated PhD student to join and strengthen the team in fall 2026. The project will make use of state-of-the-art experimental infrastructure and address research questions at the forefront of current developments in ultracold-atom physics.
You will carry out experiments in close collaboration with another PhD student and under the guidance of the scientific advisor. The research is embedded in a friendly and stimulating environment within a larger group currently consisting of four PhD students, a senior scientist, and a group leader.
For technical reasons, you must upload a project description. When - as here - you apply for a specific project, please simply copy the project description above, and upload it as a PDF in the application. If you wish to, you can indicate an URL where further information can be found.
Qualifications and specific competences:
Applicants must have a relevant Master’s degree or at least one year of a Master’s degree in physics.
Place of employment and place of work:
The place of employment is Aarhus University, and the place of work is Department of Physics and Astronomy, Ny Munkegade 120, DK-8000 Aarhus C, Denmark.
Contacts:
Applicants seeking further information for this project are invited to contact:
Professor Jan Arlt, arlt@phys.au.dk
How to apply:
For information about application requirements and mandatory attachments, please see the Application guide. Please read the Application guide thoroughly before applying.
When ready to apply, go to https://phd.nat.au.dk/for-applicants/apply-here/ (Note, the online application system opens 1 March 2026)
Please note:
At the Faculty of Natural Science at Aarhus University, we strive to support our scientific staff in their career development. We focus on competency development and career clarification and want to make your opportunities transparent. On our website, you can find information on all types of scientific positions, as well as the entry criteria we use when assessing candidates. You can also read more about how we can assist you in your career planning and development.
Aarhus University’s ambition is to be an attractive and inspiring workplace for all and to foster a culture in which each individual has opportunities to thrive, achieve and develop. We view equality and diversity as assets, and we welcome all applicants. All interested candidates are encouraged to apply, regardless of their personal background.
