Your role
Your mission is to advance research in quantum technologies by joining the Wallenberg Quantum Centre as a PhD candidate registered at Chalmers University of Technology (Sweden) while being employed by Atlas Copco Group on a 4-year contract. This role is part of Atlas Copco’s Scientific Vacuum Division quantum strategy, focusing on superconducting qubit generation - a critical technology for scalable quantum computing.
Quantum computers require extremely low cryogenic temperatures to operate efficiently, achieved through Helium Dilution Refrigerators (HDR). Atlas Copco equipment plays a vital role in HDR systems, particularly in the closed-cycle recirculation of ³He/⁴He mixtures. Your work will help build a fundamental understanding of HDR operational characteristics, enabling future scalability and efficiency of quantum hardware infrastructure.
As a PhD candidate in Quantum Technology you will report to the Global Application Manager of the Scientific Vacuum Division who will serve as your industry thesis advisor. You will be appointed a primary academic thesis supervisor from Chalmers University.
Your role:
- Develop advanced simulation models for ³He/⁴He ratios and flow characterization in vacuum and compression stages.
- Measure and analyze HDR performance across different operational stages (PT1/PT2, Still, Mixing Chamber, Cold Plates) under various conditions.
- Characterize new vacuum and cryogenic equipment under development in similar operational environments.
- Investigate equipment behavior influencing qubit performance, including contamination effects, environmental factors, and reliability aspects.
- Execute experiments using HDR equipment at Chalmers University and support safe hardware installations.
- Build expertise in vacuum and cryogenic physics through structured training and safety courses.
- Gain proficiency in Atlas Copco’s modeling tools and industry-standard software (Comsol, Monte Carlo, and Janus - successor to Pascal and PumpCalc).
To succeed, you will need
Even if you don't meet all the requirements, but are ready for a challenge, click on "Apply" anyway. We love your spirit!
- You hold a Masters degree or equivalent in Engineering Physics, Physics, Mechanical Engineering, Chemical Engineering, or a related discipline.
- You bring knowledge in thermodynamics, quantum physics, fluid mechanics, heat transfer, and physical chemistry.
- You are fluent in English, both written and spoken.
- You are willing to relocate to Gothenburg (80%) and travel (20%) to Atlas Copco facilities in Sweden, UK, Germany, Netherlands, and potentially partner sites in the USA and Japan.
- You have a strong grasp of the vacuum market, both technically and commercially, along with solid product management and marketing know-how.
- You act with strategic and entrepreneurial focus, making informed, impactful decisions and communicating with clarity, confidence, and influence to shape business outcomes.
- You are committed to the PhD journey and experience
In return, we offer
- A unique opportunity to contribute to cutting-edge quantum research with real industrial impact.
- A structured PhD program combining academic excellence and industry experience.
- Access to world-class facilities and mentorship from leading experts.
- A comprehensive onboarding program and continuous learning opportunities.
- A culture that values well-being, diversity, and innovation - your ideas matter!
- Are you missing something? Help shape it and bring in your ideas.
Job location
Gothenburg, Sweden at Chalmers University (ca. 80%) with international travel as required (ca. 20%). #LI-hybrid
#WACQT
Contact information
Talent Acquisition Team: Katharina Hess
