Fondazione Bruno Kessler (FBK) is a private research institution devoted to excellence in research in numerous disciplines and designated to the role of keeping the Autonomous Province of Trento in the mainstream of European and international research. Each research area is assigned to a specific research center, of which there are twelve totals. Information regarding the research centers, their activities and production is available at http://www.fbk.eu/research-centers .

Workplace

The FBK Center for Sensors and Devices (FBK-SD) is a research center that operates in the following scientific and technological areas: materials and interfaces, devices and microsystems, integrated systems, quantum sensors and quantum technologies. FBK-SD has extremely advanced technical know-how in materials science, innovative device design and microfabrication technologies.

The available position is in the Materials and Topologies for Sensors and Devices (MTSD) Unit of FBK-SD. Among other tasks, MTSD carries out R&D activities based on the design, microfabrication and cryogenic measurements of planar superconducting devices. MTSD is also active on several projects focused on quantum technologies for generating and manipulating quantum states of lights. The activities are carried out in collaboration with the nanofabrication and the physical-chemical material characterization teams of FBK-SD.

FBK actively seeks diversity and inclusion in the workplace and is also committed to promoting gender equality. To promote the inclusion of disabled staff as per law 68/99, the Foundation is available and interested in evaluating the applications received for technical-scientific domains that do not correspond exactly to this call.

Job Description

The selected researcher will contribute to the development of advanced methodologies and applications for distributed sensor systems. The role involves the design and implementation of algorithms and simulations for distributed sensor networks, with a particular focus on innovative models based on nonlinear dynamics. A key objective will be to investigate distributed solutions that enhance the reliability and resilience of sensing infrastructures.

In addition, the researcher will work on the application of artificial intelligence techniques to sensor data analysis. This includes developing advanced methods for processing and interpreting large volumes of data, as well as integrating machine learning algorithms to improve the sensitivity and selectivity of gas sensing platforms developed at FBK. The position also foresees the definition of robust calibration procedures to address device variability and correct undesired behaviors of FBK sensor systems, ensuring their reliable deployment in real-world scenarios , using advanced calibration techniques based on mathematical modelling and statistics.

Job requirements

The ideal candidate should have:

• Master's Degree in Mathematics or Physics;
• Experience and competence in mathematical modelling using nonlinear approaches;
• Experience and familiarity in numerical analysis, simulation, high performance computing, artificial intelligence, and particular experience with analog electronic circuits in the field of sensors and nonlinear dynamics;
• Good working knowledge of the MATLAB language;
• Good working knowledge of electronic instrumentation, such as digitizing oscilloscopes, and related programming;
• Excellent English, written and spoken;
• Teamwork approach, good communication and relational skills;
• Strong orientation to results, determination, flexibility and aptitude for problem-solving.

Furthermore, the following elements will be positively evaluated:

• Track record of publications on top-ranking academic journal in the fields of physics and engineering applied to nonlinear dynamics;
• Recent experience in other academic and/or research institutions and laboratories working on nonlinear dynamics, analog circuits, data analysis and sensors.

Employment
Type of contract: fixed-term contract
Working hours : part-time (20 h per week)
Start date : November 2025
Duration : 36 months with the possibility of extending the contract depending on funding
Workplace : Povo, Trento
Gross annual salary: about € 38,539.67 for a full-time researcher, plus objectives achievements bonus
Benefits : flexi-time, company subsidized cafeteria or meal vouchers, internal car park, welcome office support for visa formalities and for research in accommodation, accommodation etc., supplementary pension and health fund, social security (SANIFONDS), family-work balance, free training courses, support on bank account opening, discount on public transport, sport, language course fees, counseling and psychological support service. More info at https://www.fbk.eu/en/work-with-us/

Application

Interested candidates are requested to submit their application by completing the online form ( https://jobs.fbk.eu/ ). Please make sure that your application contains the following attachments

(in pdf format):

• Detailed CV including relevant past experiences (as an attached document in PDF format);
• Cover Letter (explaining your motivation for this specific position).

Application deadline: 22/09/2025

Please read our Recruitment Regulations before completing your application.