Position Summary
Position:
Department:
Faculty of Aerospace Engineering
Institute:
Delft University of Technology
Country:
Netherlands
Research Field:
Computer Science, Cybersecurity, Aerospace Engineering, Electrical Engineering
Posted Date:
NA
Deadline:
May 31, 2026
Offer Period:
4 Years
Offer Start Date:
NA
PhD Position in Cybersecurity and Post-Quantum Cryptography for Aviation Systems
Description:
- We are seeking an exceptional PhD candidate to join the PostQat project, addressing the emerging cryptographic challenge in aviation by exploring secure architectures, protocols, and implementation strategies for future air traffic management (ATM) communication systems.
- Your responsibilities will include conducting security assessments of aviation communication, navigation, and surveillance (CNS) systems, and analyzing quantum threats to ADS-B, CPDLC, ACARS, VHF communications, and satellite systems. You will design protocols for quantum-resistant cryptography adapted for aviation applications. The research will also define service and functional requirements for post-quantum secure air traffic management infrastructure.
- The role will also involve addressing resource constraints of embedded avionics hardware and long-lifecycle aviation equipment with other project partners, while developing open-source reference implementations and protocol blueprints. You will collaborate with cybersecurity experts, aviation authorities, and industry partners, contributing to the European PQC transition roadmap for aviation.
- PostQat (Post-Quantum Secure Communication and Surveillance for Air Traffic Management) establishes the foundation for embedding security (including post-quantum security) into the core of future aviation systems. TU Delft leads the concept and system design work package, focusing on vulnerability assessment, use case definition, and security requirements engineering. This exploratory research aims to position Europe as a leader in ATM cybersecurity and enable safe integration of next-generation automation.
- Your PhD research will extend beyond this project. The research could include signal gathering and processing, simulations, and experiments with software-defined radios.
Required Qualification:
Essential Qualification:
- MSc degree (or equivalent) in Computer Science, Cybersecurity, Aerospace Engineering, Electrical Engineering, or related field
- Knowledgve in cryptography, network security, or information security
- Knoweledge of communication protocols and security architectures
- Knowledge of aviation systems (CNS, ATM) or strong motivation to acquire this expertise
- Programming experience in Python, C/C++, or Rust
- Ability to work with interdisciplinary teams spanning cybersecurity and aviation
- Excellent English communication skills (written and verbal)
Preferred Qualification:
- Experience with cryptography
- Experience with software defined radios
- Background in embedded systems, IoT security, or resource-constrained computing
- Contributions to open-source security projects
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.
Application Process:
Documents Required:
- CV
- Motivational letter
- BSc and MSc Transcripts
- You can address your application to Dr. Junzi Sun. Submitting your application earlier than the deadline is encouraged.
How to apply:
- Are you interested in this vacancy? Please apply no later than 31 May 2026 via the application button and upload the following documents:
About the Host Lab Group/Institution:
Faculty of Aerospace Engineering
- The Faculty of Aerospace Engineering at Delft University of Technology is a leading international community where innovation in aerospace meets global challenges. Our support and scientific staff, including PhD candidates, postdocs, and students, largely work together on three main themes: the energy transition, sustainable aerospace, and safety and security, with the aim of tackling climate change and contributing to the independence and security of Europe.
- When you join us, you become part of a diverse, collaborative, and forward-thinking environment where your ideas and perspectives are valued. Our work extends beyond the lab—into field labs, innovation hubs, and partnerships with other faculties, research institutes, governments, and industry, both locally and globally.
- We are committed to fostering an inclusive and welcoming workplace, assisted by an active Diversity & Inclusion team. This includes tangible support such as funding for extra personnel for family and caregiving responsibilities, mentoring programmes, and initiatives that promote cultural exchange and integration.
TU Delft
- 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.