Postdoc in Theoretical Quantum Physics | Quantum Sensing and Tests of Fundamental Physics

You will develop new theoretical methods for quantum sensing with mechanical systems, explore their use in tests of fundamental physics, and help build the research environment of a new theory group.

Job description

Imagine extending decades of exquisite quantum control from atoms, ions, photons, and related quantum platforms to the rigid-body motion of an entire solid containing billions of atoms. This capability is now becoming a reality through rapid advances in the control of mechanical quantum systems, opening new opportunities for quantum sensing, precision metrology, and tests of the fundamental laws of physics. Realising this potential, however, requires theoretical frameworks that connect realistic quantum experiments with the fundamental questions they are expected to address.

As a postdoctoral researcher at TU Delft, you will develop and lead analytical and numerical research on the quantum dynamics of mechanical systems and their interactions with complex environments. Building on these models, you will formulate and investigate new approaches to quantum control, noise mitigation, and quantum sensing, while establishing the fundamental limits that govern the preparation, manipulation, and certification of quantum states in realistic experiments. By combining experimentally grounded models with theoretical tools from quantum information, open quantum systems, and the foundations of quantum physics, you will contribute to defining what laboratory-scale quantum experiments can, and cannot, achieve in terms of sensing capabilities and what they can reveal about decoherence, the quantum-to-classical transition, the interface between quantum mechanics and gravity, and the limits of quantum mechanics in general.

You will join the newly established theory group of Assistant Professor Julen Simón Pedernales in the Department of Quantum Nanoscience at TU Delft as one of its first postdoctoral researchers. The group's research is centred on developing the theoretical foundations of mechanical quantum systems for quantum sensing and tests of fundamental physics. Within this framework, you will be encouraged to contribute original ideas, identify promising research directions, and translate broad scientific goals into concrete research projects.

As one of the first members of the group, you will help build a collaborative research environment based on open scientific discussion, creative thinking, intellectual curiosity, and rigorous, yet experimentally relevant theory. You will work closely with students and collaborators in Delft and across an international network while developing the independence, mentoring experience, and scientific communication skills expected of a future principal investigator, providing a strong foundation for the next stage of your academic career.

Job requirements

You are a researcher who enjoys discussing physics in an open and collaborative environment, where ideas are openly discussed and constructive criticism is welcomed. You enjoy moving across different levels of abstraction, from concrete, experimentally grounded models of quantum systems to general mathematical frameworks, and using the insights gained at one level to inform the other. You are excited by the opportunity to develop as an independent researcher, gradually taking on greater scientific responsibility while building the leadership and mentoring skills needed for a successful academic career.

You also have:

• A PhD in Physics or a closely related discipline by the start of the appointment.
• Expertise in one or more of the following areas: quantum optics, quantum technologies, quantum information, quantum sensing, or related fields.
• Experience developing analytical and numerical models of quantum systems.
• Excellent written and spoken English.
• Excellent communication skills.
• An interest in mentoring students and contributing to the scientific development of a growing research group.

Knowledge of one or more of the following topics would be an advantage:

• Quantum metrology.
• Continuous-variable quantum systems and Gaussian state formalism.
• Quantum information theory and entanglement theory.
• Theory of spin-mechanical systems.
• Open quantum systems, continuous quantum measurement and feedback, and stochastic methods for quantum dynamics.
• Tests of fundamental physics with quantum systems, including collapse models, deformed commutation relations, and related modifications of quantum theory.
• The interface between gravity and quantum mechanics, including linearized quantum gravity, hybrid classical-quantum theories of gravity, and gravity-mediated quantum interactions.

About TU Delft

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 a 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.

Our scientists conduct ground-breaking fundamental and applied research in the fields of Life and Health Science & Technology, Nanoscience, Chemical Engineering, Radiation Science & Technology, and Engineering Physics, providing a strong environment for this role.

Conditions of employment

• Duration of contract is 2 years, temporarily with a possibility for extension.
• Salary and benefits are in accordance with the Collective Labour Agreement for Dutch Universities.
• An excellent pension scheme via the ABP.
• The possibility to compile an individual employment package every year.
• Discount with health insurers on supplemental packages.
• Flexible working week.
• Every year, 232 leave hours (at 38 hours). You can also sell or buy additional leave hours via the individual choice budget.
• Plenty of opportunities for education, training and courses.
• Partially paid parental leave.
• Attention for working healthy and energetically with the vitality program.
• If you need to relocate to the Netherlands for this job, TU Delft offers support to help make your move as smooth as possible, including relocation information, events to help you settle in the Netherlands, and a Dual Career Programme to support an accompanying partner with their job search.

Additional information

The Pedernales group is part of the Department of Quantum Nanoscience at the Kavli Institute of Nanoscience in Delft University of Technology. The starting date is negotiable.