New junior research group leader at the IAP

Dr. Jonas Junker has been working at the Institute of Applied Physics (IAP) at Friedrich Schiller University in Jena since January 2026. Here, he will establish a junior research group focusing on fast coherent control techniques for quantum information processing—an important component of modern quantum research.

From Hamelin to the world of quantum physics

Born in Hamelin, he discovered his enthusiasm for physics while still at school. “I was lucky enough to have a very inspiring physics teacher who taught with humor, exciting questions, and lots of hands-on experiments,” recalls Dr. Junker. After graduating from high school, he moved to Hanover to study physics. His master's thesis on laser power stabilization of gravitational wave detectors under Prof. Benno Willke had a particularly formative influence on him. “The independent way of working and the creative struggle to find new solutions motivated me greatly,” he says.
In his subsequent doctoral studies under Prof. Michèle Heurs, Dr. Junker researched how squeezed light—a quantum optical state with reduced measurement noise—can be used to improve the sensitivity of gravitational wave detectors. The combination of theoretical analysis and experimental practice became the core of his scientific work.

International research experience in Australia and Denmark

After completing his doctorate, he joined Prof. David McClelland's research group at the Australian National University in Canberra in 2023. There, he deepened his research on gravitational wave detection. At the beginning of 2025, he moved to the Technical University of Denmark in Copenhagen (Lyngby) to join Prof. Ulrik Lund Andersen's group, where he worked in the field of photonic quantum computing. This international experience will also shape his future work in Jena.

Research focus in Jena

“I want to develop processes that allow quantum information to be processed faster and more reliably,” explains Dr. Junker. His ideas convinced the selecting committee, which also saw a close professional connection to the projects of Prof. Fabian Steinlechner. Initial joint coordination and support work in the laboratory and in supervising doctoral students is already underway. In addition to research, Dr. Junker also wants to take on responsibility in personnel management and continue to cultivate exchanges with his international networks: “Science thrives on open dialogue – and on learning from each other.”

Arriving in Jena

Outside the laboratory, Dr. Junker particularly appreciates the scenic surroundings of his new home. “I enjoy being outdoors – in the Kernberge hills, on my bike, or simply on foot. The city's panorama is fantastic, and I'm sure Jena still has many exciting things in store for me.”