About SQUASH
Why the SQUASH postdoctoral programme?
SQUASH is a project grounded in the current strategic directions of both Slovenia and the European Union. It provides a bridge to scientific maturity and independence for young researchers in various fields of quantum sciences, from physics and chemistry to material science, and from computer science to engineering. It consists of 4 research areas, covering diverse expertise in quantum science mastered at the Jožef Stefan Institute. The core of scientific excellence at the Jožef Sefan Institute is complemented by a diverse selection of 46 excellent Partners from Slovenia and from all across Europe, North America, India and Japan.
We offer very attractive working conditions, together with excellent personal mentoring from some of world’s leading experts in quantum sciences, and the chance to develop a powerful set of transferable skills based on three pillars (Leadership, Personal Development, and Communication), matched to the needs of every individual postdoctoral researcher.
Why quantum sciences?
The year 2025 has been proclaimed the International Year of Quantum Science and Technology by the General Assembly of the United Nations to commemorate a century since quantum mechanics was established and to acknowledge its central role not only in research but also in everyday life. Quantum mechanics elucidates the basic principles of matter formation from subatomic particles to patterns of galaxies, it has led to some of the most profound technological developments in the last centuary, and underpins cuttingedge future technologies. It fosters global collaboration among diverse cultures, driving international cooperation and knowledge sharing. For all these reasons, establishing a fully-fledged European quantum ecosystem is among the top priorities of the European Commission.
Why the Jožef Stefan Institute?
The SQUASH programme’s Beneficiary, the Jožef Stefan Institute, represents one of the highest-ranking research facilities in the country. Since its foundation in 1949 as the Institute for Physics, the researchers at the Jožef Stefan Institute have continuously reported major breakthroughs in quantum research. The Jožef Stefan Institute is cofounder of the Center for Quantum Technology Slovenia (QUTES) established in 2016, which is dedicated to promoting quantum technology research and development across Slovenia. The centre provides a platform for experts, enthusiasts, and professionals in the field, as well as plays the key role in popularizing quantum technologies. The Institute is also a partner in the EU funded project SiQUID – Slovenian Quantum Communication Infrastructure Demonstration, aiming to establish a test-bed quantum network for advanced quantum-communication protocols.
Why Slovenia?
Slovenia is one of the youngest and most dynamic countries in Europe. It has outstanding green credentials, and one of the largest numbers of start-ups and SMEs per capita in the EU, some of which are Associated Partners in SQUASH. Slovenia is one of the smaller countries in the EU, but the number of PhD students, the rate of higher-education qualification and the number of new doctoral graduates well exceed the EU average. Slovenian researchers are very active internationally and rank among the most prolific authors in Europe according to the number and impact of scientific publications. Slovenia is also taking part in major European quantum initiatives, such as QuantERA and EuroHPC JU, and will participate in the EuroQCS-Italy project.