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FPGA Engineer

Garching b. München (DE)
Full-time
Permanent employee

Your mission

As an FPGA Engineer, you will be part of the electrical engineering team developing cutting-edge FPGA systems for neutral atom quantum computers. In close collaboration with the quantum hardware and software teams, you will design, implement, and optimize high-performance real-time control and data acquisition systems that enable the precise manipulation of individual atoms with nanosecond accuracy. Your work will be central to advancing the performance and scalability of our quantum computers and unlocking new quantum algorithms and applications. 

Key Responsibilities 

Design and implement SystemVerilog/Verilog modules for quantum control systems including:
  • Real-time distributed signal acquisition and generation with high-speed ADC/DAC
  • Integration of vision interfaces e.g. CameraLink, CoaXpress, or DisplayPort/HDMI
  • Creation of comprehensive testbenches and simulation modules using SystemVerilog/Verilog and/or Python (cocotb)
  • Co-design memory-mapped firmware and software for PS-PL interfaces on SoC’s
  • Design of robust clocking and trigger architectures for multi-board synchronisation

Your profile

Necessary Requirements 
  • 3+ years of FPGA development experience (equivalent to 1+ with Master’s degree)
  • Bachelor’s or Master’s degree in Electrical Engineering or relevant field
  • Proficiency in synthesizable SystemVerilog, Verilog, or VHDL and functional verification of development modules
  • Experience with timing closure and static timing analysis of pre- and post- implemented designs with multiple high-speed clock domains
  • Prior project experience related to image/signal processing or control engineering
  • Extensive knowledge of ARM AXI4, AXIStream, and AXI-Lite bus protocols
  • Development of firmware on SoCs for ARM, RISC-V, or PC400 architectures
  • Ability to work effectively with experimental physicists and engineers 
Supplementary Skills:  
  • Controlling high-bandwidth (> 1 GSPS) ADC/DACs
  • Rapid, high-fidelity camera acquisition and in-memory image processing
  • Projects based on Xilinx SoC devices and toolchains: Vivado, Vitis/SDK
  • Generation and management of embedded OS and BSP with Yocto or Petalinux

Why us?

planqc, founded in 2022 by scientists from the Max Planck Institute of Quantum Optics (MPQ) and Ludwig Maximilian University of Munich (LMU), is a pioneering quantum computing startup based in Garching near Munich. We specialize in developing highly scalable neutral-atom quantum computers, utilizing individual atoms as qubits. 
Here’s why you’ll love being part of our journey:
  • Cutting-Edge Innovation: At planqc, you’ll work with state-of-the-art technology, using individual atoms as qubits to build highly scalable quantum computers. Our unique approach combines precision from the world’s best atomic clocks, quantum gas microscopes, and high-speed Rydberg gates. Together, we’re creating the fastest path to industry-relevant quantum advantage.
  • Impactful Projects: Join us as we develop groundbreaking quantum systems and software, including a 1,000-qubit computer for the Leibniz Supercomputing Centre (LRZ), a bespoke quantum computer for the German Aerospace Center (DLR) and quantum algorithms for several DLR projects.
  • Empowered by Excellence: With notable advisors and board members like Hermann Hauser (founder of ARM) and Professor Ann-Kristin Achleitner, we’re guided by exceptional leadership. Our Series A funding of €50 million allows us to push boundaries and explore new horizons.
  • Dynamic Work Culture: We value innovation, collaboration, and growth. Our team of around 50 brilliant minds works from locations in Garching, Ulm, and Innsbruck, fostering an environment where creativity meets ambition. 
  • Recognition and Growth: planqc’s achievements are celebrated globally. From winning the German Startup Award in 2023 to being named a Technology Pioneer by the World Economic Forum in 2024, you’ll be part of a company that’s making history.
  • Work-Life Synergy: Whether it’s through team events, after-work socials, or opportunities to attend quantum conferences worldwide, you’ll find a supportive community that values both your professional and personal growth.

About us

At planqc, we harness the laws of quantum mechanics to build revolutionary computing systems. Our quantum computers store information in individual atoms — nature’s perfect qubits — and process it through scalable arrays manipulated by precisely controlled laser pulses. This groundbreaking technology is paving the way of redifining the future of computation but also enabling transformative applications across industries.
Our roots lie in decades of international research on neutral-atom quantum technologies. Building on the technology used in the world’s best atomic clocks combined with advanced quantum gas microscopes, and high-speed Rydberg gates, we’ve built a foundation for innovation that’s unmatched.
At the heart of planqc is a commitment to excellence, collaboration, and pushing the boundaries of what’s possible. Whether you’re a quantum physicist, software engineer, or operations expert, you’ll find a place here to grow, contribute, and thrive.

Together, we’re not just imagining the future — we’re building it.