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.

In the Quantum Internet Alliance, 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 quantum networks including 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.

A postdoc position is available in the group of Stephanie Wehner at QuTech, Delft University of Technology, on the topic of quantum network architectures. The successful candidate will work on the design and analysis of quantum network architectures using analytical methods and/or numerical simulation, and enjoys the challenge of solving novel computer science and/or mathematical challenges driven by real world quantum network implementations This position is part of the Quantum Internet Alliance, which is working towards building a real world prototype network.  As such, it offers the opportunity to conduct work leading to real world implementations on state-of-the-art quantum hardware, in collaboration with experimental physics and engineering teams. At Delft University of Technology, our group is part of QuTech’s Quantum Internet Division, as well as the Section of Quantum Computer Science in EEMCS.

You have a PhD degree in computer science, computer engineering, mathematics, physics or comparable discipline at the time of taking on the position. 

• You have a strong background in quantum networking, quantum information, or classical networking.
• You enjoy working in a team and bring excellent leadership, organizational, communication and interpersonal skills.

Quantum Computer Science in Delft

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 Postdoc position is a 0.8-1.0 FTE role, with a minimum of 32 hours per week and a maximum of 38 hours per week. Appointment is for the duration of the project, which is 1 year with the possibility of prolongation. The UFO profile: Researcher 4, with a full-time salary based on VSNU-CAO Scale 10-5 (salary for Postdocs starts at €3.548 gross per month on a fulltime basis). The actual salary will be based on your work-experience.

TU Delft/QuTech offers a customizable compensation package, an attractive pension scheme, holiday allowance, generous holidays, 13th month pay (paid as a pro-rata bonus in December), a discount for health insurance and sport memberships, and a monthly work costs contribution. Flexible work schedules can be arranged. An International Children’s Centre offers our employees childcare and an international primary school. Salary and benefits are in accordance with the Collective Labour Agreement for Dutch Universities (VSNU-CAO).

Delft University of Technology

Your contract will be with Delft University of Technology (TU Delft), an organisation 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.

For generations, our engineers have proven to be entrepreneurial problem-solvers in both business and social contexts. TU Delft offers 16 Bachelor’s and 32 Master’s programs to more than 23,000 students. Our scientific staff consists of 3,500 staff members and 2,800 PhD candidates. Together we imagine, invent and create solutions using technology to ensure positive change on a global scale:

Challenge. Change. Impact!

Soft landing in The Netherlands

Starting out in a new country presents quite a challenge for international applicants. Therefore the Coming to Delft Service programme will provide you support ranging from informative events to the Dual Career support for accompanying partners (wishing to continue their career in the Netherlands). Moreover on TU Delft campus there is an international day care centre and an international primary school. The international secondary school is located close to campus. Coming to Delft services are not only available for international non-Dutch applicants, Dutch applicants returning to the Netherlands will be supported as well.

QuTech is an inclusive organisation: we believe that diversity enhances the quality of our work and hence actively promote an inclusive policy.