PhD Position Modular Quantum Processing Units with Superconducting Qubits

Do you love exploring new ideas in quantum technology and want to positively impact the world by developing groundbreaking innovation? We're seeking a motivated person to join us as a PhD researcher.

Job Description

In partnership with Bluefors (see https://bluefors.com), QuTech (see https://qutech.nl) and the microelectronics Department  at TU Delft (see https://microelectronics.tudelft.nl/) is offering a full-time PhD position in the area of modular quantum processing units (MQPU) with superconducting qubits.

We're working on the realisation of a modular multi-chip quantum processing unit using superconducting qubit technology and experimentally demonstrating its performance. As a PhD researcher, you'll be at the forefront of this exciting journey, focusing on design, simulation, and nano-fabrication of the MQPU. Along with developing novel designs and investigating their theoretical properties, you will also realise this chip using University’s cleanroom facilities, the Kavli Nanolab (KNL) and the Else Kooi Laboratory (EKL). Within this project you will work closely with other researchers from QuTech and the Microelectronics department of TU Delft. Additionally, you will have the opportunity to shape your research project according to your specific interests and expertise.

The primary objective of this research program is to advance the development of a modular multi-chip Quantum Processing Unit (QPU) utilising superconducting qubit technology. The urgency of pursuing this modular QPU architecture has grown. The current research approach, focused on consolidating all superconducting qubits onto a single chip, is reaching its practical limits. With an increase in the number of qubits, the probability of encountering malfunctions in Josephson Junctions also rises. This imminent challenge prompts a shift within the scientific community and industry from a single chip approach to embracing a modular multi-chip QPU. However, achieving this objective will require a thorough redesign of our QPU. On the QPU design front, the research question revolves around exploring optimal connectivity among qubits positioned on distinct chips by developing novel architecture. Simultaneously, from the hardware perspective, the focus will be on the fabrication, and packaging of this modular Quantum Processing Unit in alignment with the proposed architecture.

Besides carrying out theoretical and experimental research and working on scientific articles, you will be expected to actively participate in seminars and discussions with colleagues from the department and company, as well as to present the findings at (inter)national conferences or workshops.

Requirements

You need to be a:

1. Curious Learner: You're eager to learn and explore, holding a Master's degree (MSc) in Applied Physics, Electrical Engineering, or a related field. You're passionate about solving real-world problems in quantum technology.
2. Analytical Thinker: You excel at analysing complex design issues to derive meaningful insights and solutions.
3. Tech-Savvy: You're comfortable navigating through microwave design software such as CST and HFSS, and are proficient in programming languages like Python.
4. Collaborative Team Player: You are eager to engage with stakeholders across academia, and industry, fostering inclusive partnerships to drive innovation in quantum technology.
   
   

The following will help make you stand out:

1. Prior experience with design and simulation of quantum circuits and nano-fabrication is not required, it is a plus.
2. A willingness to learn and apply new techniques is highly valued for this project.
   
   

We strongly encourage applications from female candidates and other underrepresented groups.

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.     

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 run jointly by Delft University of Technology (TU Delft) and the Netherlands Organisation for Applied Scientific Research (TNO). Together, we work on a radically new technology with world-changing potential, developing scalable prototypes of a quantum computer and an intrinsically safe quantum internet.

We are creating the quantum future, and we believe that quantum technology will be a game changer in many social and economic sectors – including health, agriculture, climate and safety. To achieve our ambitious goals, we bring together scientists, engineers and industry in an inspiring environment, with plenty of space for ambition, entrepreneurship and innovation. Our research and engineering activities are conducted in three divisions: Quantum Computing, Quantum Internet and Qubit Research. 220 FTE and over 300 curious people work in our divisions and support teams, and we actively welcome new colleagues who share our vision and enthusiasm.

Have a look at our video and get a glimpse of QuTech.

Faculty Electrical Engineering, Mathematics and Computer Science

The Faculty of Electrical Engineering, Mathematics and Computer Science (EEMCS) brings together three scientific disciplines. Combined, they reinforce each other and are the driving force behind the technology we all use in our daily lives. Technology such as the electricity grid, which our faculty is helping to make completely sustainable and future-proof. At the same time, we are developing the chips and sensors of the future, whilst also setting the foundations for the software technologies to run on this new generation of equipment – which of course includes AI. Meanwhile we are pushing the limits of applied mathematics, for example mapping out disease processes using single cell data, and using mathematics to simulate gigantic ash plumes after a volcanic eruption. In other words: there is plenty of room at the faculty for ground-breaking research. We educate innovative engineers and have excellent labs and facilities that underline our strong international position. In total, more than 1000 employees and 4,000 students work and study in this innovative environment.

Click here to go to the website of the Faculty of Electrical Engineering, Mathematics and Computer Science.

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 € 2901 per month in the first year to € 3707 in the fourth year. 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.
For more details please check the Graduate Schools Admission Requirements.

The TU Delft offers a customizable compensation package, discounts on health insurance, and a monthly work costs contribution. Flexible work schedules can be arranged.

For international applicants, TU Delft has the Coming to Delft Service. This service provides information for new international employees to help you prepare the relocation and to settle in the Netherlands. The Coming to Delft Service offers a Dual Career Programme for partners and they organize events to expand your (social) network.

Additional Information

For more information about this position, please contact Nadia Haider, at s.n.haider@tudelft.nl.

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

Application procedure

Have you become enthusiastic about this vacancy? Then apply directly via the ‘Apply’ button no later than 31 August 2025. We look forward to receiving your motivation and resume.

• A cover letter in which you describe your personal motivation and specific qualifications for this position (max 1 page).
• Your curriculum vitae, including a list of your publications (if applicable) and the contact information of two (academic and/or industrial) references.
• An academic transcript, including grades for your qualifying degrees (BSc, MSc).

You can address your application to Nadia Haider.

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. 
• 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