PhD Position Electrical Engineering: Cryo-CMOS Circuit Design for Temperature Sensors in Quantum

Contribute to quantum technologies by developing integrated cryogenic temperature sensors. Join our vibrant team in demonstrating cryo-CMOS integrated circuits enabling the next quantum technologies!

Job Description

Quantum computers and quantum sensors require electronic interfaces that can operate reliably at cryogenic temperatures. However, conventional room-temperature electronics rely on extensive wiring, creating significant challenges for scalability, system integration, and performance. In this PhD project, you will contribute to the development of cryogenic electronic interfaces that support future quantum technologies.

You will join a leading research group at TU Delft that pioneers cryo-CMOS integrated circuits: CMOS circuits operating at temperatures as low as 4 K. These technologies enable highly integrated electronic systems for quantum computing and sensing applications and offer unique opportunities for innovation in analog and mixed-signal circuit design.

Your research will focus on the development of integrated cryogenic temperature sensors. Accurate temperature monitoring is essential for thermal management in complex quantum systems, where temperature variations can affect performance and reliability. Existing cryogenic sensors are often bulky, costly, and difficult to integrate. Although smart temperature sensors in CMOS technology have been developed for decades over the standard temperature range around room temperature, those standard techniques cannot be readily applied at cryogenic temperatures, thus requiring innovations in terms of sensing elements, readout circuitry, and power efficiency. You will investigate new sensing principles and develop energy-efficient sensor architectures specifically designed for operation at cryogenic temperatures.

Throughout your PhD, you will design, simulate, fabricate, and characterize multiple cryo-CMOS prototypes using advanced CMOS technologies. You will perform measurements in TU Delft’s dedicated cryogenic characterization facilities and gain experience with the complete integrated circuit design cycle, from concept development to experimental validation.

You will work closely with researchers, PhD candidates, and industrial partners active in cryogenic electronics and quantum technologies. Your results will contribute to international research projects and will lead to presentations at leading conferences and publications in high-impact journals.

This position offers the opportunity to develop expertise in analog integrated circuit design, cryogenic electronics, and semiconductor technologies while growing into an independent researcher. The knowledge and skills acquired during the project provide a strong foundation for careers in academia, research institutes, and the semiconductor and high-tech industries.

Job requirements

• You hold an MSc degree in Electrical Engineering.
• You have a strong interest in analog integrated circuit design.
• Hands-on experience in circuit design, gained through academic research, industry projects, or internships, is considered an advantage.
• You demonstrate strong analytical, creative, and problem-solving abilities.
• You have excellent written and verbal communication skills in English.
• You have the ability and eagerness to work in an international collaborative environment.

To thrive as a PhD candidate, it is crucial to have a strong research mindset driven by curiosity and passion for your topic. Reflecting on your motivation for pursuing a PhD trajectory is essential, as this path involves unique challenges and uncertainties inherent to scientific exploration. Success requires dedication, adaptability, the ability to analyze complex problems, manage your time effectively, innovate, and stay resilient under pressure. Combined with the ability and willingness to work independently and collaborate well, these qualities are indispensable for a fulfilling PhD journey. These experiences will build you as an independent researcher, expand your professional network, and pave the way for diverse career paths, inside or outside academia.

TU Delft (Delft University of Technology)

Working at TU Delft means contributing to solutions that really make a difference.

At TU Delft, our people make the difference. With their knowledge and curiosity, our staff provide high-quality education and conduct pioneering research that extends beyond the campus. You will have the opportunity to take the initiative, work with others, and grow as a professional. Working at TU Delft means joining an international community of professionals and students. Together, we create knowledge, innovations, and solutions that help move the world forward.

Faculty of Electrical Engineering, Mathematics and Computer Science

The Faculty of Electrical Engineering, Mathematics and Computer Science (EEMCS) brings together three scientific disciplines. Combined, they reinforce each other and are the driving force behind the technology we use in our daily lives. We educate innovative engineers and have excellent labs and facilities that underline our strong international position.