Key Skills

Job Description

Introduction Are you passionate about building an entanglement-based routing in quantum optical networks? Join us to develop an innovative entanglement-based routing architecture and protocol, and set up an experimental testbed to route entangled photons in the presence of classical telecom traffic in multi-node quantum optical fiber networks. Job Description Efficient distribution and routing of entanglement are indispensable for quantum‑secure communication (e.g., advanced QKD networks), distributed quantum computing, quantum‑secure enterprise connectivity and quantum teleportation services across metropolitan or regional distances. However, unique features of quantum information, such as non-amplification, no-cloning, or measurement without altering the quantum states, make it difficult to re-use the architecture and protocols of classical telecom networks for quantum communication and networking. In contrast to classical optical signals, quantum states are extremely fragile and degrade rapidly due to loss, noise, and decoherence, especially over long distances. As a result, conventional telecom solutions such as optical amplification, regeneration, and routing cannot be directly applied to quantum networks. Nevertheless, recent advances in quantum state generation and measurement have opened new opportunities for developing quantum network architectures and protocols for routing and teleportation, a critical enabler for quantum networks. In this PhD project, you will set up an experimental testbed for a multi-node quantum optical fiber network that enables entanglement generation and detection, frequency conversion, and entanglement routing of quantum-classical packets between nodes connected by optical switches. Additionally, you will investigate the coexistence of classical telecom traffic and quantum signals and the effects of impairments such as noise and crosstalk. The project will combine theoretical and simulation studies and validate them with experimental studies. The project will leverage KPN’s expertise to address real‑world constraints—including scalability, interoperability, reliability, and manageability—while developing the telecom‑grade quantum networks. The PhD position is fully funded by our industry partner (KPN) in Smart Optical Networks Lab (SONL) of the Electro-Optical Communication group. The research activity of SONL covers a wide range of topics, including network design and software control, reconfigurable interconnects for telecom, datacenters, AI clusters, and quantum networks, down to heterogeneous photonic integrated circuits and systems for enabling low-latency, fast network reconfiguration in real systems. Additionally, we focus on innovative solutions for switching and routing in secure quantum-optical networks. The ECO group covers a wide range of topics from the Photonic layer to the Application layer of the communication system, and we also play a key role in the Casimir Institute at TU/e, and within the PhotonDelta and QuantumDelta growth fund program. Besides research you will also contribute to education within our group and the Department of Electrical Engineering and mentor BSc and MSc students during their research projects. Job Requirements A master’s degree (or an equivalent university degree) in (applied) physics, electrical engineering, or related subjects. Solid background in fiber-optic communication, quantum optics, and networks. Knowledge of programming languages such as Python. Prior experience with setting up quantum optical communication and network experiments is an asset. A background in Electronics/FPGA is a plus. A research-oriented attitude. Ability to work in an interdisciplinary team and interested in collaborating with industrial partners. Motivated to develop your teaching skills and coach students. Fluent in spoken and written English (C1 level). Conditions of Employment A meaningful job in a dynamic and ambitious university, in an interdisciplinary setting and within an international network. You will work on a beautiful, green campus within walking distance of the central train station. In Addition, We Offer You Full-time employment for four years, with an intermediate assessment after nine months. You will spend a minimum of 10% of your four-year employment on teaching tasks, with a maximum of 15% per year of your employment. Salary and benefits (such as a pension scheme, paid pregnancy and maternity leave, partially paid parental leave) in accordance with the Collective Labour Agreement for Dutch Universities, scale P (min. € 3,204 - max. € 4,051 gross base salary per month (full-time)). In addition to your base salary, you will receive an 8% holiday allowance and an 8.3% year-end bonus, both calculated based on your annual gross base salary. Generous leave options: a standard 29 days (based on a 38 hour working week) per year that you can increase to 41 days by working two hours more per week (flexible working hours). This is prorated if you work part-time. As a TU/e employee, you participate in the ABP pension scheme, providing retirement pension and pension benefits for surviving dependents and occupational disability. TU/e pays 70% of the pension premium, while employees contribute the remaining 30%. High-quality training programs and other support to grow into a self-aware, autonomous scientific researcher. At TU/e we challenge you to take charge of your own learning process. An excellent technical infrastructure, and on-campus children's day care. Unlimited access to the modern on‑campus TU/e Student Sports Center at an exceptionally affordable rate. We support your wellbeing with free 24/7 access to OpenUp, providing you and your family with mental health support, expert guidance, and online training. An allowance for commuting, working from home and internet costs. A Staff Immigration Team and a tax compensation scheme (the Expat Scheme) for international candidates. On our website you can discover even more information about our conditions of employment. Build on your career at TU/e! About Us We are a leading international university where scientific curiosity meets a hands-on mindset. We work in an open and collaborative way with high-tech industries to tackle complex societal challenges. Our responsible and respectful approach ensures impact — today and in the future. TU/e is home to over 13,000 students and more than 7,000 staff, forming a diverse and vibrant academic community. Discover what Light Up means to TU/e in our short company video. Our university is located in Brainport Eindhoven — a world‑leading tech region with more than 7,000 high‑tech companies and strong R&D activity. Known for breakthroughs in AI, photonics, semiconductors and advanced manufacturing, Brainport is a place where technology serves people and society. Learn more about the Brainport region here. The mission of the Department of Electrical Engineering is to acquire, share and transfer knowledge and understanding in the whole field of Electrical Engineering through education, research and valorization. We work towards a ‘Smart Sustainable Society’, a ‘Connected World’, and a healthy humanity (‘Care & Cure’). Activities share an application-oriented character, a high degree of complexity and a large synergy between multiple facets of the field. Research is carried out into the applications of electromagnetic phenomena in all forms of energy conversion, telecommunication and electrical signal processing. Existing and new electrical components and systems are analyzed, designed and built. The Electrical Engineering department takes its inspiration from contacts with high-tech industry in the direct surrounding region and beyond. The department is innovative and has international ambitions and partnerships. The result is a challenging and inspiring setting in which socially relevant issues are addressed. Information Do you recognize yourself in this profile and would you like to know more? Please contact the hiring manager Prof. Nicola Calabretta by email at [email protected]. Visit our website for more information about the application process. You can also contact [email protected]. Curious to hear more about what it’s like as a PhD candidate at TU/e? Please view the video. Are you inspired and would like to know more about working at TU/e? Please visit our career page. Application We invite you to submit a complete application by using the apply button. The application should include a: Cover letter in which you describe your motivation and qualifications for the position. Curriculum vitae, including a list of your publications and the contact information of three references. Kindly note that we may reach out to references at any stage of the recruitment process. We recommend notifying your references upon submitting your application. Attach your bachelor's and master's theses and scientific papers, if any. Ensure that you submit all the requested application documents. We give priority to complete applications. We look forward to receiving your application and will screen it as soon as possible. The vacancy will remain open until the position is filled. Please note You can apply online. We will not process applications sent by email and/or post. A pre-employment screening (e.g. knowledge security check) can be part of the selection procedure. For more information on the knowledge security check, please consult the National Knowledge Security Guidelines. Please do not contact us for unsolicited services.

Core Responsibilities

Develop and experimentally validate an entanglement-based routing architecture and protocol for multi-node quantum optical fiber networks, including entanglement generation and detection, frequency conversion, and routing alongside classical telecom traffic. Conduct theoretical, simulation, and experimental studies of network impairments and real-world constraints, and contribute to teaching and mentoring undergraduate and master's students.

Requirements

Applicants must have a master's degree or equivalent in applied physics, electrical engineering, or a related field, with a solid background in fiber-optic communication, quantum optics, and networks, plus programming knowledge such as Python. The role also calls for a research-oriented, collaborative approach, interest in working with industry, motivation to teach and mentor, and fluent spoken and written English at C1 level; experimental experience is an asset and electronics or FPGA experience is a plus.

Benefits

• Pension Scheme
• Paid Pregnancy And Maternity Leave
• Partially Paid Parental Leave
• Holiday Allowance
• Year-End Bonus
• Generous Annual Leave
• Training And Professional Development
• On-Campus Childcare
• Access To On-Campus Sports Facilities
• Mental Health Support
• Commuting Allowance
• Work-From-Home Allowance
• Internet Cost Allowance
• Immigration Support
• Tax Compensation Scheme