Quantum Computer Science (QCS) is a growing subdivision of the Faculty of Electrical Engineering, Mathematics, and Computer Science (EEMCS) at TU Delft. QCS’ mission is to endow society with the full potential of quantum technologies. In view of this endeavor, QCS values research in all areas of quantum computing, quantum information, and quantum communication with a special focus on making quantum technologies a practical reality. QCS is part of QuTech — a leading institution in the development of a Quantum Internet and a Quantum Computer.  This allows for close collaboration of QCS members with physicists and engineers at QuTech who build real-world quantum hardware, thus enabling opportunities of conducting research on all levels of the stack. 

The vision of a Quantum Internet is to provide fundamentally new internet technology by enabling quantum communication between any two points on earth. Such a Quantum Internet will – in synergy with the ‘classical’ Internet that we have today - connect quantum processors in order to achieve unparalleled capabilities that are provably impossible using only classical communication.

At QuTech, we are working on making such a network a reality. As part of this effort, we are working on an architecture to control and program networks of distant quantum processors. This is made challenging both by fundamental differences between classical and quantum information, as well as technological limitations of near-term quantum devices. Right now, we have only a basic first system that allows us to execute quantum programs on a network of quantum processors.

Several PhD positions are available as part of our efforts to understand and build quantum network architectures. The successful candidates will work with Stephanie Wehner and Gayane Vardoyan at QuTech, Delft University of Technology in the section on Quantum Computer Science and QuTech’s Quantum Internet Division.

 Positions are available in the following areas:

1. Design and analysis of large-scale quantum network architectures using both analytical methods and numerical simulation.
2. Design and implementation of quantum network operating system concepts on state-of-the-art quantum hardware on a small network of quantum processors.

Please indicate in your application which of the two positions (or both!) most interest you.

You have a master’s degree in computer science, computer engineering, mathematics, physics or comparable discipline at the time of taking on the position.  While a prior course in quantum information is a plus, no prior knowledge in quantum information is required.

• You enjoy working in a team and bring excellent organizational, communication and interpersonal skills.
• For position 2: a strong computer science background is preferable. You also enjoy experimenting with different approaches and are excited by operating system design and computer architecture, the interface between hardware and software, as well as hands-on software implementations on real quantum hardware. Prior expertise in embedded systems is a plus, but not required.
  
  

Doing a PhD at TU Delft requires English proficiency at a certain level to ensure that the candidate is able to communicate and interact well, participate in English-taught Doctoral Education courses, and write scientific articles and a final thesis. For more details please check the Graduate Schools Admission Requirements.

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 € 2443 per month in the first year to € 3122 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 sport memberships, and a monthly work costs contribution. Flexible work schedules can be arranged. For international applicants we offer the Coming to Delft Service and Partner Career Advice to assist you with your relocation.

Delft University of Technology

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 and aim to be as inclusive as possible (see our Code of Conduct). Together, we imagine, invent and create solutions using technology to have a positive impact on a global scale.

Challenge. Change. Impact!