University of Twente – Photonics for Quantum Netherlands
Job Description
Organization: University of Twente
Faculty/Department/Division: Faculty of Science & Technology, Department of Physics and Astronomy, Adaptive Quantum Optics (AQO), MESA+ Institute for Nanotechnology
Location: Twente, Netherlands
Position: Two Postdoctoral Researchers in Photonics for Quantum
Project Overview
The Adaptive Quantum Optics (AQO) chair at the MESA+ Institute for Nanotechnology is seeking two Postdoctoral Researchers to work within the P4Q project on photonic integrated circuits (PICs) for quantum communication and quantum networking.
A central part of the project is the integration of high-brightness III–V photonic-crystal single-photon sources developed by French research partners with low-loss silicon nitride (SiN) photonic routing circuits.
The researchers will work across the full technology chain, from integrated photonic circuit design and hybrid integration to quantum-optical characterization and field demonstrations. The project involves close collaboration with academic, research and industrial partners, including Thales, LioniX International, TNO and QuiX Quantum.
The project also aims to demonstrate the developed technology in realistic quantum-networking scenarios. Existing and planned dark-fiber connections between the University of Twente, Saxion University of Applied Sciences and the University of Münster will support field experiments in advanced quantum communication, including authenticated quantum communication.
Key Responsibilities
- Design photonic integrated circuits for quantum communication and networking.
- Contribute to the hybrid integration of photonic components.
- Work on the integration of III–V photonic-crystal single-photon sources with low-loss SiN photonic routing circuits.
- Perform extensive quantum-optical characterization after fabrication.
- Collaborate closely with colleagues in the Applied Nanophotonics (ANP) department.
- Work with industrial and research partners within the P4Q consortium.
- Contribute to field demonstrations of quantum-communication technologies.
- Participate in experiments using dark-fiber connections for realistic quantum-networking scenarios.
- Contribute to research spanning integrated photonic design, hybrid integration, quantum optics and networking.
Required Qualifications
- PhD degree in Physics.
- Solid background in integrated photonics and quantum optics or optics.
- Strong analytical and communication skills.
- Creative approach to research and problem solving.
- Ability to work effectively in an interdisciplinary and internationally oriented environment.
- Good team spirit and collaborative approach.
- Excellent command of English.
Preferred Qualifications
- Experience with photonic integrated circuits.
- Experience in quantum-optical experiments.
- Experience with nanophotonic structures or integrated photonics.
- Knowledge of Dutch or German is an advantage.
- Experience working in multidisciplinary academic and industrial collaborations.
Employment Details
The positions are full-time and offered for a duration to be discussed, with a maximum duration of 2.5 years.
The formal workweek is based on 38 hours, while full-time employment in practice is 40 hours per week. The position offers flexibility to work partially from home.
Number of positions: 2
Starting Date: Not specified; to be discussed.
Salary & Benefits
- Gross monthly salary of €4,422–€5,760, in accordance with the collective labour agreement for Dutch universities (CAO-NU).
- 8% holiday allowance of the gross annual salary.
- 8.3% end-of-year bonus.
- Pension scheme.
- Minimum of 232 leave hours for full-time employment based on a 38-hour formal workweek.
- An additional 96 leave hours annually when working 40 hours per week.
- Free access to sports facilities on campus.
- Paid and unpaid parental leave options.
- Career support and professional and personal development courses.
- Flexible working arrangements, including partial home working.
Application Documents
Applicants should submit their application through the University’s online application system and include:
- Cover letter of maximum 2 A4 pages explaining specific interest, qualifications and motivation.
- Curriculum Vitae.
- List of all courses attended and grades obtained.
- List of publications, if applicable.
Screening will form part of the selection procedure.
English Language Requirement
Excellent command of English is required. Knowledge of Dutch or German is advantageous but not required.
Supervisor / Contact
Prof. Pepijn Pinkse
Email: [email protected]
Application Deadline
30 September 2026.
Starting Date
Not specified; to be discussed.
Reference
Not specified.
