Position Summary
Position:
Department:
QuTech
Institute:
Delft University of Technology
Country:
Netherlands
Research Field:
Physics, Quantum optics
Posted Date:
NA
Deadline:
Apr 12, 2026
Offer Period:
4 Years
Offer Start Date:
NA
PhD Position in Rare-Earth Ion Emitters for Quantum Networks (Experimental)
Description:
- In the future, quantum networks could change the way we communicate, run apps in the cloud, and help scientific tools and sensors. To build such quantum networks, nodes based on solid-state emitters are promising contenders. One specific type of solid-state emitters, rare-earth ions (REIs) in host crystals, are particularly interesting. Because of their internal atomic structure, REIs can serve as excellent qubits, with long coherence time and emission in the visible and NIR spectrum. In the last few years, a lot of research has been done on proving REIs as qubits, including showing remote entanglement and quantum teleportation.
- We are looking for PhD students to join the Hermans Lab and take the next step and build a next-generation quantum network. Can we control multiple of these REIs within the same chip and perform two-qubit gates between them? Using such coupled emitters, is it possible to run advanced entanglement protocols that can generate better entangled states faster? This research will open up many new interesting physics experiments, for example, generating spin-photon cluster states.
- What will you be doing?
As a team member of Hermans Lab, you will be involved in all parts of the experimental process: From designing and fabricating nanophotonic structures, building an optical low-temperature setup, performing experiments, and simulating spin dynamics. Next to this, you will have the opportunity to build expertise in quantum optics and information, and to develop mentorship skills by guiding MSc and BSc students.
- You will be part of a collaborative and supportive research environment at the heart of the Delft University campus. Our team values diversity and fosters an inclusive, international culture. Beyond research, you will have plenty of opportunities to connect through social activities, such as our annual retreat, the Christmas party, and the summer BBQ—all accompanied by live music from our own QuTech bands!
Required Qualification:
Essential Qualification:
We are seeking not only dedicated future scientists but also individuals who thrive in a team-oriented environment, where passion and commitment go hand in hand.
- MSc degree in (Applied) Physics or Quantum Science and Technology.
- Strong interest in quantum optics and information science.
- Excellent written and verbal communication skills in English.
- Ability to collaborate effectively in an interdisciplinary research environment.
Preferred Qualification:
Not Available
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 €3059 - €3881 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%.
- 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.
- 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 12 April 2026 via the application button and upload the following documents:
- CV
- Motivational letter
- Contact of 2 references will be asked at a later stage of the process.
You can address your application to Sophie Hermans.
How to apply:
- You can apply online. We will not process applications sent by email and/or post.
- As part of knowledge security, TU Delft conducts a risk assessment during the recruitment of personnel. We do this, among other things, to prevent the unwanted transfer of sensitive knowledge and technology. The assessment is based on information provided by the candidates themselves, such as their motivation letter and CV, and takes place at the final stages of the selection process. When the outcome of the assessment is negative, the candidate will be informed. The processing of personal data in the context of the risk assessment is carried out on the legal basis of the GDPR: performing a public task in the public interest.
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.
- With more than 1,100 employees, including 150 pioneering principal investigators, as well as a population of about 3,600 passionate students, the Faculty of Applied Sciences is an inspiring scientific ecosystem. Focusing on key enabling technologies, such as quantum- and nanotechnology, photonics, biotechnology, synthetic biology and materials for energy storage and conversion, our faculty aims to provide solutions to important problems of the 21st century. To that end, we educate innovative students in broad Bachelor's and specialist Master's programmes with a strong research component. Our scientists conduct ground-breaking fundamental and applied research in the fields of Life and Health Science & Technology, Nanoscience, Chemical Engineering, Radiation Science & Technology, and Engineering Physics. We are also training the next generation of high school teachers.
- QuTech: QuTech is a mission-driven research institute of TU Delft. Together we are working on a radical new technology with world-changing potential. We are developing scalable prototypes of a quantum computer and a secure quantum internet. We believe quantum technology will be a game changer in many social and economic sectors - including health, agriculture, climate, and security. To achieve our ambitious goals, we bring scientists, engineers, and industry together in an inspiring environment, with plenty of room for ambition, entrepreneurship, and innovation.
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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.