Two Postdoc positions for max. 2.5 years in Photonics for Quantum
In the Photonics for Quantum (P4Q) Chips Joint Undertaking Pilot, we are looking for two postdoctoral researchers to design, develop, and characterise integrated photonic chips for quantum applications and to demonstrate advanced quantum-communication and quantum-networking use cases with these devices.
Your home base will be the Adaptive Quantum Optics (AQO) chair at the MESA+ Institute for Nanotechnology, University of Twente. Within P4Q, you will work on photonic integrated circuits (PICs) for quantum communication and quantum networking. A central element of the project is the integration of high-brightness III–V photonic-crystal single-photon sources developed by our French partners with low-loss SiN photonic routing circuits. The work will be carried out in close collaboration with leading industrial and research partners in the P4Q consortium, in particular Thales (France), LioniX International, TNO, and QuiX Quantum.
You will contribute to the design of the photonic circuits and their hybrid integration, followed by extensive quantum-optical characterization after fabrication. The experimental work will be performed in close collaboration with colleagues in the Applied Nanophotonics (ANP) department at the University of Twente.
We would love to go beyond laboratory characterization and demonstrate the technology in realistic quantum-networking scenarios. We coordinate a dark-fiber connection for field experiments between the University of Twente and Saxion University of Applied Sciences, and are setting up one towards the University of Münster in Germany. We aim to use these facilities to demonstrate advanced quantum-communication concepts, including authenticated quantum communication.
The positions therefore offer the opportunity to work across the full chain from integrated photonic design and hybrid integration to quantum-optical experiments and field demonstrations, within a large European consortium spanning academia, research institutes, foundries, and quantum-technology companies.
Information and application
Are you interested in this position? Please send your application via the 'Apply now' button below before September 30th, and should include:
- A cover letter (maximum 2 pages A4), emphasizing your specific interest, qualifications, motivations to apply for this position.
- A Curriculum Vitae, including a list of all courses attended and grades obtained, and, if applicable, a list of publications.
Screening will be part of the procedure.
For more information regarding this position, you are welcome to contact Pepijn Pinkse, p.w.h.pinkse@utwente.nl.
About the department
Adaptive Quantum Optics (AQO) combines adaptive methods with quantum-optical applications and integrated photonics. We employ adaptive systems designed to compensate for fluctuations and randomness inherent in nanophotonic structures or for handling high-dimensional quantum information. Whether exploring multiple-scattering photonic media or engineered nanophotonic structures, we strive to uncover the underlying principles that govern their behavior and exploit it for new functionality.
AQO stands at the intersection of quantum optics, integrated photonics, and security, equipped with state-of-the-art technology and a commitment to pushing the boundaries of scientific exploration.
About the organisation
The Faculty of Science & Technology (Technische Natuurwetenschappen, TNW) engages some 700 staff members and 2000 students in education and research on the cutting edge of chemical technology, applied physics and biomedical technology. Our fields of application include sustainable energy, process technology and materials science, nanotechnology and technical medicine. As part of a people-first tech university that aims to shape society, individuals and connections, our faculty works together intensively with industrial partners and researchers in the Netherlands and abroad, and conducts extensive research for external commissioning parties and funders. Our research has a high profile both in the Netherlands and internationally and is strengthened by the many young researchers working on innovative projects with as doctoral candidates and post-docs. It has been accommodated in three multidisciplinary UT research institutes: Mesa+ Institute, TechMed Centre and Digital Society Institute.


