2 PhD's Positions on Quantum Communication, Sensing and Simulation

Join us and shape the quantum devices of tomorrow!

We are looking for two motivated PhD candidates to join the Machado group and be at the forefront of theoretical research in quantum science. Our newly established team is actively engaged in advancing fundamental physics and using those learnings to help design new quantum experiments, devices and applications.

Job description

Our research spans several areas of quantum science, and we have two PhD positions available within these topics. Please indicate your preferred research topic in your application.

Quantum Communication and Distributed Quantum Computation

Future quantum technologies will rely on how effectively quantum devices can communicate and operate together. In this project, you will explore fundamental limits and opportunities in quantum communication protocols and the design of distributed quantum applications. Topics include quantum information theory (e.g. algorithms and error correction), distributed sensing and computation, and realistic modelling of quantum communication platforms.

Quantum Sensing

Coherent control of qubits enables new approaches to probing physical systems that can outperform classical approaches. In this research project you will investigate how qubit properties can be used to develop novel sensing and noise spectroscopy protocols, and how quantum algorithms can enhance information extraction from the environment. The goal is to develop theoretical insights that directly inform near-term experimental tools.

Quantum Simulation

Controlling many qubits coherently enables the study of complex many-body phenomena complementing traditional solid-state experiments. In this research project you will explore how quantum simulators provide new insights into long-standing problems and uncover new emergent behaviours, using analytical and numerical tools from quantum information, condensed matter, and AMO physics.

Although the positions are theoretical, they are closely connected to experimental collaborations within TU Delft and beyond, ensuring strong impact on the development and validation of quantum technologies.     

Requirements

• Master’s degree in physics, math, applied physics, engineering, or a related field.
• Strong background in theoretical quantum physics (e.g. quantum mechanics, quantum information, condensed matter, or AMO physics).
• Experience with analytical and/or numerical modelling; programming skills in a scientific language (e.g. Python, Julia).
• Excellent written and spoken English.
• Highly motivated for theoretical research with close interaction with experimental collaborators.
• Self-driven, curious, and able to work independently and in a team.

Will make you stand out:

• Knowledge of quantum information theory, quantum communication, sensing, or simulation.
• Experience with numerical many-body or quantum simulation methods.
• Interest in bridging theory and experiment in quantum technologies.

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.

Challenge. Change. Impact!

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.

Conditions of employment 
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.

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.  

Additional information

For more information about this position, please contact Francisco Machado at QuTech at F.Machado@tudelft.nl.

For questions about the procedure, please contact our Senior Recruiter Audrey Monje at A.Monje@tudelft.nl.

Application procedure
Are you interested in this vacancy? Please apply no later than 28 February 2026 via the application button and upload the following documents:

• CV.
• Motivational letter which includes 5 concise points stating why you are the right candidate for this position.
• Transcript of records of your masters and bachelors.

You can address your application to Francisco Leal Machado.

Doing a PhD at TU Delft requires English proficiency at a certain level to ensure that the candidate is able to communicate and interact well, participate in English-taught Doctoral Education courses, and write scientific articles and a final thesis. For more details please check the Graduate Schools Admission Requirements. 

Please note:

• 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. You can find more information about this assessment on our website about knowledge security.
• Please do not contact us for unsolicited services