Towards On-Chip Rydberg-Atom RF Sensors

Rydberg-atom sensors detect radio-frequency (RF) electric fields using laser-prepared atoms in a vapor cell, read out entirely optically. Because the signal is linked to fundamental atomic properties of a gas of atoms, these sensors are self-calibrated to atomic constants and are in principle broadband from DC to the THz range. This makes them attractive for electric-field metrology, spectrum sensing, and RF communications receivers. Most current implementations, however, remain bulky laboratory setups built around centimeter-scale vapor cells and free-space optics, and their raw sensitivity often trails mature RF electronics. Recent work has shown that embedding dielectric, photonic-like structures around the vapor cell concentrates the RF field at the atoms, improving the measured signal by more than an order of magnitude. Consequently, this simulation-heavy work involves, but is not limited to: Compiling the sensor's optical requirements (excitation schemes, wavelengths, powers, linewidths, beam configurations) into a concrete target specification. Translating these into an on-chip architecture. How to generate, route, and deliver the light on a photonic platform, and identify which free-space optical components can be realized on such a platform without compromising the sensor’s performance. Perform targeted optical modeling, validated against published results where possible, to identify the most promising practical implementation of the Rydberg sensor. Type of internship : Master internship Duration : 6-9 months Required educational background : Nanoscience & Nanotechnology, Electrotechnics/Electrical Engineering University promotor : Xavier Rottenberg (KU Leuven) Supervising scientist(s) : For further information or for application, please contact Xavier Rottenberg ( Xavier.Rottenberg@imec.be ) and Niels Verellen ( Niels.Verellen@imec.be ) and Joonyoung Kim ( Joonyoung.Kim@imec.be ) The reference code for this position is 2026-INT-219 . Mention this reference code in your application. Imec allowance will be provided for students studying at a non-Belgian university. Applications should include the following information: resume motivation current study Incomplete applications will not be considered