Engineering Superconducting Surfaces for Particle Accelerators and Quantum Devices

This PhD position focuses on establishing atomic layer deposition (ALD) as a versatile surface engineering method for superconducting resonators, advancing both particle accelerators and quantum computing systems. The project involves controlled doping of bulk niobium superconducting radiofrequency cavities and developing protective coatings with minimal dielectric losses to suppress defects. Working at CEA Paris-Saclay within the Laboratory for Integration and Development of Cavities and Cryomodules, the candidate will employ advanced analytical techniques such as tunneling spectroscopy, X-ray spectroscopy, and TOF-SIMS. The research is supported by the European EPITA project and includes collaborative radiofrequency measurements with international partners like Fermilab. The successful applicant will contribute to optimizing surface performance across both high-energy physics and quantum regimes.

• Develop atomic layer deposition processes to create conformal dopant source films on superconducting resonators.
• Perform high-vacuum annealing treatments to control dopant distributions within radiofrequency-active regions.
• Synthesize and investigate alternative protective coatings designed to minimize dielectric losses in quantum devices.
• Conduct material characterization using tunneling spectroscopy, X-ray spectroscopy, and TOF-SIMS.
• Evaluate radiofrequency performance metrics such as quality factors and accelerating gradients at CEA and partner facilities.
• Collaborate with international partners, including Fermilab, to analyze promising surface treatments at millikelvin temperatures.