Join Prof. Dr. Stephanie Wehner 's group and work at the forefront of Quantum Technologies.
Job Description
The vision of a Quantum Internet is to provide fundamentally new internet technology by enabling quantum communication between any two points on earth. Such a Quantum Internet will – in synergy with the 'classical' Internet that we have today - connect quantum processors in order to achieve unparalleled capabilities that are provably impossible using only classical communication.
Two PhD positions in the domain of quantum network systems are available in the group of Prof. Dr. Stephanie Wehner at QuTech, Delft University of Technology. Both positions are embedded in the Quantum Internet Alliance collaboration.
1. Quantum Node Operating Systems
The goal of this PhD position is to advance QNodeOS, the node operating system that allows the execution of quantum network applications on user devices (end nodes) connected to a quantum network.
This PhD is part of the highly collaborative effort of the Quantum Internet Alliance (QIA), and targets optimization and adaption of QNodeOS to allow deployment on QIA’s realworld quantum network prototype. You will work within QIA’s large, multidisciplinary collaboration and are expected to take ownership of a clearly defined technical role in this realization of the prototype network, which may become the first of its kind in the world.
The successful candidate is strongly motivated by designing and developing real-world software systems for quantum networks at the forefront of R&D, and is excited by handson research that brings quantum networking technology out of the lab and into operational prototypes. This is a systems PhD in the domain of experimental quantum computer science, including the realization and demonstration of future versions of QNodeOS on real quantum networking hardware.
2. Quantum Network Control Plane
A control plane architecture (Aqron) was developed for a quantum internet, that is, a general purpose quantum network capable of creating entanglement between end nodes. Simultaneously, control plan architectures exist for near term QKD networks, where only keys can be distributed between end nodes. The goal of this PhD is to device a unified control plane architecture that can deal with both modalities.
This PhD is part of the highly collaborative effort of the Quantum Internet Alliance (QIA) in its collaboration with near term QKD efforts, and has the potential for lasting impact in the deployment and development of quantum networks.
The successful candidate is strongly motivated by designing and developing real-world software systems for quantum networks at the forefront of R&D, and is excited by handson research that brings quantum networking technology out of the lab and into operational prototypes. This is a systems PhD in the domain of experimental quantum computer science, including the realization of control plane demonstrations.
Background and Profile:
We are looking for candidates with a strong systems background, preferably with experience in one or more of the following areas:
- Operating systems (project 1).
- Distributed systems software.
- Networked systems or control software (project 2).
A background in computer science, computer engineering, or a closely related field is expected. Prior knowledge of quantum information is a plus, but not a requirement.
The successful candidates bring good communication and interpersonal skills, enjoy working in a large multi-disciplinary collaboration, and take ownership of their contribution to the QIA mission. Candidates are expected to visit collaborating institutions in other places of Europe as part of their work.
Requirements
- Master’s degree (or equivalent) in computer science, computer engineering, or a related discipline at the start of the position.
- Demonstrated experience in software systems (e.g. through projects).
- Familiarity with programming in C (project 1) and Python.
- Proficiency in English.
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 the PhD positions, please contact Prof. Stephanie Wehner at S.D.C.Wehner@tudelft.nl.
Application procedure
Are you interested in one of these vacancies? Please mention which project are you interested in working with; apply no later than 7 June 2026 via the application button and upload the following documents:
- A cover letter addressed to Prof. Dr. Stephanie Wehner, explaining your motivation for pursuing a PhD and explicitly describing your experience with systems or software implementation relevant to this position.
- Contact info of three references may be required at a later stage.
- A CV, which should include details of your eligibility, as well as a list of previous projects and/or publications. Links to github, or other online materials are highly encouraged.
- Transcripts of records including classes and grades obtained (BSc and MSc).
- A PDF of your master thesis or other project report.
Starting date: As soon as possible (flexible).
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.
