We are looking for a PhD candidate to work with an international consortium focused on validating the QEnclave concept. The objective is to obfuscate a quantum computation task from a client also from the quantum cloud computer owner by rotating the input states in a trusted hardware environment. This environment will be a special hardware Security Module (HSM) adapted for its purpose. Your responsibilities will involve jointly designing fiber-coupled hardware for deployment within the HSM, conducting device testing, and collaborating with consortium partners to execute the conclusive demonstration.

Your home base will be within the Adaptive Quantum Optics (AQO) chair in the MESA+ Institute for Nanotechnology at the University of Twente. Your supervisor will be Prof. Pepijn Pinkse (AQO).

We work closely together with our colleagues in the integrated photonics program.

• You have an enthusiastic and highly motivated research attitude.
• You are motivated to act as the experimental optical expert in an interdisciplinary and international team with partners from industry, from quantum information theory and with software developers.
• You have a good team spirit and like to work in an interdisciplinary and internationally oriented environment.
• A master’s degree in physics (or related) with a background in photonics, (quantum) optics, cryptography or related areas.
• Good English writing and presentation skills.

• A full-time position for four years, with a qualifier in the first year.
• Your salary and associated conditions are in accordance with the collective labour agreement for Dutch universities (CAO-NU).
• You will receive a gross monthly salary ranging from € 2.770,- (first year) to € 3.539,- (fourth year).
• There are excellent benefits including a holiday allowance of 8% of the gross annual salary, an end-of-year bonus of 8.3%, and a solid pension scheme.
• A minimum of 232 leave hours in case of full-time employment based on a formal workweek of 38 hours. A full-time employment in practice means 40 hours a week, therefore resulting in 96 extra leave hours on an annual basis.
• Free access to sports facilities on campus.
• You will have a training programme as part of the Twente Graduate School of the University of Twente where you and your supervisors will determine a plan for a suitable education and supervision.

Adaptive Quantum Optics (AQO) combines adaptive methods in combination with quantum optics. Within AQO, we employ adaptive systems designed to steer quantum states of light to develop quantum technology for security and fundamental understanding. Whether exploring multiple-scattering photonic media or engineered nanophotonic or integrated photonic structures, we strive to uncover the underlying physical principles that govern their behaviour.

AQO stands as a beacon at the intersection of quantum optics, nanooptics, and security, equipped with state-of-the-art technology and a commitment to pushing the boundaries of scientific exploration.