2 PhD Positions in Quantum Networks

Join the Quantum Computer Science groups at QuTech, the quantum technology institute at TU Delft!

We have two open PhD positions in the field of quantum networks (networks of quantum devices), offering the opportunity to work at the forefront of quantum technologies.

Job Description

The PhD positions are part of a collaboration between universities and industry partners on the topic of quantum networks. The programme is a so-called Marie Skłodowska-Curie Doctoral Network, funded by the European Union, and consists of 15 PhD positions in total who are divided over the different institutes and who all work on quantum network development. As part of this, both PhD positions at TU Delft include international research stays and training events at the partner institutes.

PhD Position 1: Exploring New Use Cases for Quantum Networks

Supervisor: Prof. Stephanie Wehner

Starting date: 1 December 2025

The goal of this PhD is to find new use cases for quantum networks, and testing how well these would work on near-term quantum hardware using simulators and analytical calculation.

This position includes few-months research stays at:

• University of Sarajevo (UNSA), Bosnia and Herzegovina
• Irish Centre for High-End Computing (ICHEC), Ireland

PhD Position 2: Enhancing Entanglement Quality in Quantum Networks

Supervisor: Dr. Tim Coopmans

Starting date: 1 December 2025

The goal of this PhD position is to expand, improve and evaluate our existing set of tools for improving the quality of entanglement between network nodes, such as the use of entanglement distillation and discarding low-quality entanglement (cut-off time). We will use simulation and analytical calculation for doing so.

This position includes few-months research stays at:

• University of Naples Federico II (UNINA), Italy
• EURECOM, France

At QuTech, we value a diverse and inclusive research environment, and we strongly encourage applications from women and other underrepresented groups in science and technology.

Requirements

We are looking for a motivated candidate with a Master’s degree in Computer Science, Physics, or a closely related field and with demonstrable experience or solid foundation in quantum computing or quantum information (for example through coursework).

Previous experience with quantum networks or related fields, for example as part of a master thesis or internship, is preferred, but not strictly necessary.

TU Delft

Delft University of Technology is built on strong foundations. As creators of the world-famous Dutch waterworks and pioneers in biotech, TU Delft is a top international university combining science, engineering and design. It delivers world class results in education, research and innovation to address challenges in the areas of energy, climate, mobility, health and digital society. For generations, our engineers have proven to be entrepreneurial problem-solvers, both in business and in a social context.

At TU Delft we embrace diversity as one of our core values and we actively engage to be a university where you feel at home and can flourish. We value different perspectives and qualities. We believe this makes our work more innovative, the TU Delft community more vibrant and the world more just. Together, we imagine, invent and create solutions using technology to have a positive impact on a global scale. That is why we invite you to apply. Your application will receive fair consideration.

Challenge. Change. Impact!

QuTech

QuTech is a mission-driven research institute run jointly by Delft University of Technology (TU Delft) and the Netherlands Organisation for Applied Scientific Research (TNO). Together, we work on a radically new technology with world-changing potential, developing scalable prototypes of a quantum computer and an intrinsically safe quantum internet.

We are creating the quantum future, and we believe that quantum technology will be a game changer in many social and economic sectors – including health, agriculture, climate and safety. To achieve our ambitious goals, we bring together scientists, engineers and industry in an inspiring environment, with plenty of space for ambition, entrepreneurship and innovation. Our research and engineering activities are conducted in three divisions: Quantum Computing, Quantum Internet and Qubit Research. 220 FTE and over 300 curious people work in our divisions and support teams, and we actively welcome new colleagues who share our vision and enthusiasm.

Conditions of employment

Doctoral candidates will be offered a 4-year period of employment in principle, but in the form of 2 employment contracts. An initial 1.5 year contract with an official go/no go progress assessment within 15 months. Followed by an additional contract for the remaining 2.5 years assuming everything goes well and performance requirements are met.

Salary and benefits are in accordance with the Collective Labour Agreement for Dutch Universities, increasing from € 3059 per month in the first year to € 3881 in the fourth year. As a PhD candidate you will be enrolled in the TU Delft Graduate School. The TU Delft Graduate School provides an inspiring research environment with an excellent team of supervisors, academic staff and a mentor. The Doctoral Education Programme is aimed at developing your transferable, discipline-related and research skills.

The TU Delft offers a customisable compensation package, discounts on health insurance, and a monthly work costs contribution. Flexible work schedules can be arranged.

Additional information

For more information about the first PhD position, please contact Prof. Stephanie Wehner at S.D.C.Wehner@tudelft.nl.
For inquiries about the second PhD position, please contact Dr. Tim Coopmans at T.J.Coopmans@tudelft.nl.