PhD in Entanglement Generation and Routing in Multi-Node Quantum Networks

Introduction
Are you passionate about building an entanglement-based quantum internet?

In this PhD project, you will design an entanglement source, a routing architecture, protocols, and set up a testbed that distributes and routes entangled photons in the presence of classical telecom traffic in multi-node quantum 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 the development of a quantum network architecture and protocols for routing and teleportation as a critical enabler for quantum networks.

In this PhD project, you will investigate the time-bin entanglement generation and detection, architecture, and protocols of entanglement routing in a multi-node quantum network. Additionally, you will investigate the coexistence of classical telecom traffic and quantum signals, effect of impairments, such noise, crosstalk, etc. 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 quantum optics, quantum mechanics, and photonics.
• Knowledge of programming languages such as Python and MATLAB.
• Prior experience with setting up quantum communication and network experiments is an asset.
• A background in Electronics is a plus.
• Ability to work independently and in a larger team.
• Fluent 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).
• A year-end bonus of 8.3% and annual vacation pay of 8%.
• 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, on-campus children's day care and sports facilities.
• Unlimited access to the modern on‑campus TU/e Student Sports Center at an exceptionally affordable rate.
• 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.

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, n.calabretta@tue.nl.

Visit our website for more information about the application process. You can also contact HRServices.flux@tue.nl.

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.

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.

PhD in Entanglement Generation and Routing in Multi-Node Quantum Networks

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 the development of a quantum network architecture and protocols for routing and teleportation as a critical enabler for quantum networks.

In this PhD project, you will investigate the time-bin entanglement generation and detection, architecture, and protocols of entanglement routing in a multi-node quantum network. Additionally, you will investigate the coexistence of classical telecom traffic and quantum signals, effect of impairments, such noise, crosstalk, etc. 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.

Student Community Center – Event Support

Introduction
Do you enjoy creating spaces where students feel welcome, connected, and empowered? Are you energized by supporting events, bringing people together, and helping build a vibrant community? Then we would love to meet you!

Job Description
The Department of Mechanical Engineering is seeking an Event Support Officer for the Student Community Center to help create a vibrant, inclusive, and engaging community for our students.

As the first point of contact for activities within the Student Community Center, you play a key role in ensuring that students, staff, and visitors feel welcome and supported. You are the friendly face of the center and help facilitate a wide range of student-led activities and events.

Rather than organizing most events yourself, your primary role is to support and enable students to successfully realize their initiatives. You help turn ideas into reality by providing guidance, coordinating logistics, and connecting organizers with the right people and resources.

Your responsibilities include:

• Serving as the first point of contact for students, staff, and visitors.
• Supporting student-led events from planning through execution.
• Coordinating event logistics, room reservations, and operational processes.
• Assisting with promotional activities and community engagement initiatives.
• Contributing to a welcoming, inclusive, and vibrant Student Community Center environment.
• Identifying opportunities to improve services, activities, and the overall student experience.

The Student Community Center is more than just an event location: it is the living room of the Mechanical Engineering community. In this role, you help create an environment where students feel welcome, connected, supported, and empowered to contribute.

Your communication skills in both Dutch and English will be used daily. We also encourage you to bring your own talents and creativity to the role. Whether you enjoy painting the student community mobile kiosk, creating promotional materials, organizing creative activities, or developing new community initiatives, there is room to make the position your own.

Success in this role is measured by the quality of support you provide, the smooth execution of activities, and your contribution to creating a positive and engaging student community.

In this role, you will contribute to the ambition of the Beethoven program to educate top talent and strengthen research across the STEM fields.

Job Requirements
We are looking for an enthusiastic, approachable, and highly organized colleague who enjoys working with students and supporting community initiatives.

You enjoy helping others succeed, building relationships, and creating an environment where people feel welcome and included. While experience in event support or hospitality is valuable, we equally value initiative, adaptability, and strong interpersonal skills.

You recognize yourself in the following profile:

• Excellent organizational and planning skills.
• Strong communication and stakeholder management skills.
• A customer-focused and service-oriented mindset.
• The ability to work independently and manage multiple tasks simultaneously.
• Affinity with students, student life, and community-building activities.
• Fluency in Dutch and English, both spoken and written.
• Proficiency in Microsoft 365 applications, including Outlook, Word, Excel, and Teams.
• A positive, proactive, and flexible attitude.
• A passion for creating welcoming environments where people feel at home.

Occasional evening work may be required to support student activities and events.
We encourage applications from candidates with diverse backgrounds and experiences. If you are excited about this role but do not meet every requirement, we would still like to hear from you.

On a day-to-day basis, you will work closely with the Social Safety and Inclusion Officer of the Department of Mechanical Engineering (Jacqueline Onyenze). The position is formally embedded within the Education and Student Affairs team and reports to the Manager Education and Student Affairs (Yves Houben).

Conditions of Employment
An exciting position within an international yet personal university. You are right in the middle of the students, on a green campus within walking distance of the central station. Besides beautiful architecture, you will find varied workplaces and excellent sports facilities. We also offer you:

• A meaningful role in a dynamic and ambitious university.
• A unique opportunity to contribute directly to student well-being, inclusion, and community building within the Department of Mechanical Engineering.
• Part-time employment (0.6 FTE).
• A one-year contract with the intention to extend for an additional three years, subject to satisfactory performance and organizational needs. The position will be evaluated in 2029 to determine whether it can become a permanent role.
• A monthly salary of minimum € 3,202 to maximum € 4,159 gross for full-time employment, depending on your knowledge and experience (scale 7 Collective Labour Agreement for Dutch Universities).
• In addition to vacation pay, a structural end-of-year bonus of 8.3%.
• A favorable arrangement for more holidays or a sabbatical.
• A selection model for additional fringe benefits.
• Working hours in consultation for an optimal work-life balance.
• Scope for your talent with advancement prospects and excellent development opportunities such as mentoring, workshops and coaching.
• Partially paid parental leave and reimbursement for commuting expenses, working from home and the internet.
• A generous employer contribution to the favorable ABP pension plan.
• Unlimited access to the modern on‑campus TU/e Student Sports Center at an exceptionally affordable rate.

Here 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.

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 Department of Mechanical Engineering department conducts world-class research aligned with the technological interests of the high-tech industry in the Netherlands, with a focus on the Brainport region. Our goal is to produce engineers who are both scientifically educated and application-driven by providing a balanced education and research program that combines fundamental and application aspects. We equip our graduates with practical and theoretical expertise, preparing them optimally for future challenges.

Information
Do you recognize yourself in this profile and would you like to have more information about the position, please contact the hiring manager: Yves Houben, Manager Education and Student Affairs Mechanical Engineering, y.h.m.houben@tue.nl.

Visit our website for more information about the application process. You can also contact Hind Boulgalag, HR Advisor, h.boulgalag@tue.nl.

Are you inspired and would like to know more about working at TU/e? Please visit our career page.

Application
If you are interested, please use the ‘apply’ button to send us your CV and letter of application with your motivation and a description of your qualifications. Ensure that you submit all the requested application documents. We give priority to complete applications.

Screening of candidates begins as soon as applications are received and continues until the position is filled. Where applicable, internal candidates will be given priority over external candidates where they are equally suitable.

We look forward to receiving your application!

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.
• Important for non-EU applicants: Please be aware that for this position, specific residence permit requirements apply. If you are a non-EU national, you may not be eligible to legally work in this role under current Dutch immigration regulations. We strongly advise you to contact our Staff Immigration Team (staffimmigration@tue.nl) before applying to check your eligibility and to receive further guidance.
• Please do not contact us for unsolicited services.

Student Community Center – Event Support

The Department of Mechanical Engineering is seeking an Event Support Officer for the Student Community Center to help create a vibrant, inclusive, and engaging community for our students.

As the first point of contact for activities within the Student Community Center, you play a key role in ensuring that students, staff, and visitors feel welcome and supported. You are the friendly face of the center and help facilitate a wide range of student-led activities and events.

Rather than organizing most events yourself, your primary role is to support and enable students to successfully realize their initiatives. You help turn ideas into reality by providing guidance, coordinating logistics, and connecting organizers with the right people and resources.

Your responsibilities include:

• Serving as the first point of contact for students, staff, and visitors.
• Supporting student-led events from planning through execution.
• Coordinating event logistics, room reservations, and operational processes.
• Assisting with promotional activities and community engagement initiatives.
• Contributing to a welcoming, inclusive, and vibrant Student Community Center environment.
• Identifying opportunities to improve services, activities, and the overall student experience.

The Student Community Center is more than just an event location: it is the living room of the Mechanical Engineering community. In this role, you help create an environment where students feel welcome, connected, supported, and empowered to contribute.

Your communication skills in both Dutch and English will be used daily. We also encourage you to bring your own talents and creativity to the role. Whether you enjoy painting the student community mobile kiosk, creating promotional materials, organizing creative activities, or developing new community initiatives, there is room to make the position your own.

Success in this role is measured by the quality of support you provide, the smooth execution of activities, and your contribution to creating a positive and engaging student community.

In this role, you will contribute to the ambition of the Beethoven program to educate top talent and strengthen research across the STEM fields.

Postdoc in Sustainable printing, from processing to performance

Introduction
A three-year Postdoc position at TU/e in collaboration with Canon Production Printing, combining polymer science, rheology, and computational modeling to create the inks and coatings of tomorrow.

Job Description
Printing is evolving toward sustainability, precision, and performance. Eindhoven University of Technology (TU/e), in collaboration with Canon Production Printing, offers a Postdoc position to advance eco-friendly latex-based and UV-curable inks. In this project you will work together with two experimentally oriented PhD’s who already started.

Postdoc: Computational Modeling of Ink Performance

Model the Mechanics of Tomorrow’s Inks

This position focuses on developing multi-scale mechanical models to predict how printed inks behave under mechanical and environmental stress.

Your role:

• Build multi-scale models and extend the Eindhoven Glass Polymer Model for latex-based and UV-curable inks.
• Implement FEM simulations linking chemistry, processing, and performance.
• Integrate experimental data from the experimental PhD’s for model validation.
• Collaborate with experimental PhDs and Canon Production Printing to enable data-driven ink optimization.

Why Join?

• Work in the multidisciplinary Processing and Performance of Materials group
• Work at the forefront of sustainable materials research in collaboration with industry leaders.
• Combine chemistry, mechanics, and computation in a multidisciplinary team.
• Access cutting-edge experimental and modeling facilities.
• Contribute to the development of eco-friendly, high-performance inks that impact global printing and packaging industries.

Job Requirements

• A PhD in Mechanical Engineering, Chemical Engineering, Applied Physics, Computational Science, or a related field.
• Strong background in numerical modeling and/or computational physics/mechanics.
• Experience with and enthusiasm for numerical simulation tools including programming in fortran/python.
• A research-oriented mindset: critical thinking is your second nature.
• A team player who enjoys operating in a multidisciplinary team and is fully committed to reaching the project goals 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 3 years.
• Salary in accordance with the Collective Labour Agreement for Dutch Universities, scale 10, ranging from € 3,706 to € 5,760 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.
• 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 on general skills, didactics and topics related to research and valorization.
• An excellent technical infrastructure, on-campus children's day care and sports facilities.
• Unlimited access to the modern on‑campus TU/e Student Sports Center at an exceptionally affordable rate.
• Partially paid parental leave and an allowance for commuting, working from home and internet costs.
• A TU/e Postdoc Association that helps you to build a stronger and broader academic and personal network, and offers tailored support, training and workshops.
• A Staff Immigration Team is available for international candidates, as are a tax compensation scheme (the Expat Scheme) and a compensation for moving expenses.

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.

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 Department of Mechanical Engineering department conducts world-class research aligned with the technological interests of the high-tech industry in the Netherlands, with a focus on the Brainport region. Our goal is to produce engineers who are both scientifically educated and application-driven by providing a balanced education and research program that combines fundamental and application aspects. We equip our graduates with practical and theoretical expertise, preparing them optimally for future challenges.

Information
Do you recognize yourself in this profile and would you like to know more? Please contact the hiring manager Lambèrt van Breemen, l.c.a.v.breemen@tue.nl.

Visit our website for more information about the application process. You can also contact HR Services, hrservice.me@tue.nl.

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 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.
• List of up to five self-selected ‘best publications’.

Ensure that you submit all the requested application documents. Please note that incomplete applications may not be considered and could be rejected.

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.