Position Summary
Position:
Department:
QuTech
Institute:
Delft University of Technology (TU Delft)
Country:
Netherlands
Research Field:
physics, electrical or mechanical engineering, photonics, quantum emitters, optics
Posted Date:
NA
Deadline:
Feb 01, 2026
Offer Period:
4 Years
Offer Start Date:
NA
PhD Positions on Quantum Photonics with Color Centers
Description:
- Are you motivated to discover the qubits that build the quantum information processing machines of the future? Do you want to embed qubits in scalable systems and help bring quantum technology to real-world applications? We are seeking PhD researchers to work in the exciting field of integrated quantum photonics!
- Color centers have proven to be one of the most fruitful platforms in the quantum information era, enabling breakthroughs such as memory-enhanced quantum communication, entanglement-based quantum networks, long-term quantum information storage, and complex quantum simulations. While these demonstrations point to a wide range of applications, critical challenges regarding color center physics and their large-scale integration into systems remain untackled.
- As a PhD student in the Errando-Herranz’s group, you will work towards addressing the main challenges in the field by working on experiments involving integrated photonics, single photon detectors, and color center qubits. You will focus on device design and characterization, delving into the complex physics of color centers, and developing technology based on integrated photonic circuits and single-photon detectors for quantum and classical applications.
- You will be part of a team of talented PhD students within the ERC Starting Grant DISQOVER and/or other EU and NL projects, collaborating with top European and international teams. You will also have full access to the group's state-of-the-art measurement setups for magneto-optic spectroscopy at room and cryogenic temperatures down to 40 mK.
Required Qualification:
Essential Qualification:
- Master degree in physics, electrical or mechanical engineering, or a related field.
- Theoretical and/or experimental background in optics, integrated photonics, and/or quantum technologies.
- Excellent written and oral communication skills in English.
- Highly motivated for lab work in experimental physics and engineering.
- Demonstrated self-drive, scientific curiosity, and team worker attitude.
Preferred Qualification:
Will make you stand out:
- Demonstrated experimental skills in the fields of integrated photonics, quantum emitters,
- Superconducting detectors, or quantum integrated photonics.
- Expertise in color center or atomic physics research.
- Experience with cryogenic measurements.
Employment Conditions and Benefits:
Contract duration:
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.
Benefits:
- Salary and benefits are in accordance with the Collective Labour Agreement for Dutch Universities , increasing from Promovendus gross per month, from the first year to the fourth year based on a fulltime contract (38 hours), plus 8% holiday allowance and an end-of-year bonus of 8.3%.
- Will you need to relocate to the Netherlands for this job? TU Delft is committed to make your move as smooth as possible! The HR unit, Coming to Delft Service, offers information on their website to help you prepare your relocation. In addition, Coming to Delft Service organises events to help you settle in the Netherlands, and expand your (social) network in Delft. A Dual Career Programme is available, to support your accompanying partner with their job search in the Netherlands.
Application Process:
Documents Required:
Are you interested in this vacancy? Please apply no later than 1 February 2026 via the application button and upload the following documents:
- CV.
- Motivation letter consisting of 5 concise points stating why you are the right candidate for this position.
- Transcript of records of your masters and bachelors.
- Contact details of at least two references.
How to apply:
- You can apply online.
- We will not process applications sent by email and/or post.
- A pre-employment screening can be part of the selection procedure.
- For the final candidates, a knowledge security check will be part of the application procedure.
- For more information on this check, please consult Chapter 8 of the National Knowledge Security Guidelines. We carry out this check on the basis of legitimate interest.
- Please do not contact us for unsolicited services.
About the Host Lab Group/Institution:
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.
Explore Other Similar Positions:
You may also be interested in the following PhD positions. These opportunities are currently open across universities and research institutes worldwide.
Frequently Asked Questions:
Who can apply for a PhD position?
PhD positions are open to candidates who hold, or will soon complete, a relevant Master’s degree or equivalent qualification in a related field. Specific academic requirements may vary depending on the institution and research project.
Can international candidates apply?
Yes. Most PhD positions are open to international applicants. Universities usually provide support for visa applications and residence permits, subject to national regulations.
Is a Master’s degree mandatory for applying to a PhD?
In most cases, a completed Master’s degree is required. However, some institutions may consider exceptional candidates with strong academic backgrounds or integrated Master–PhD programs.
What is the typical duration of a PhD program?
A PhD program typically lasts 3 to 5 years, depending on the country, funding scheme, and research field. Some programs may allow extensions under specific circumstances.
Is the PhD position fully funded?
Most advertised PhD positions are fully funded and include a monthly salary or stipend. Funding details, tuition coverage, and benefits are usually specified in the job description.
Are PhD candidates considered students or employees?
This depends on the country and institution. In many European countries, PhD candidates are employed as staff members, while in others they may be registered as students receiving a stipend.
Are teaching responsibilities included in PhD positions?
Teaching duties vary by institution. Some PhD positions include teaching or lab supervision, while others are research-only. The exact expectations are described in each job advertisement.
Disclaimer:
This position is published for informational purposes. Please refer to the official application link for the most accurate and up-to-date details.