Summary
TU Delft is offering a fully funded 4-year PhD position in Theoretical Physics focusing on Mechanical Quantum Sensors for Fundamental Physics. The successful candidate will develop analytical and numerical models to describe the quantum dynamics of mechanical systems and investigate quantum control and noise mitigation techniques. The project aims to bridge the gap between laboratory quantum experiments and fundamental physics questions, including decoherence, the quantum-to-classical transition, and the interface between quantum mechanics and gravity.
PhD Position in Theoretical Physics, Mechanical Quantum Sensors for Fundamental Physics, TU Delft, Netherlands
Designation
PhD Candidate (Doctoral Researcher)
Overview Table
| Field | Details |
|---|---|
| Institution | TU Delft (Delft University of Technology) |
| Faculty / Department | Faculty of Applied Sciences / Department of Quantum Nanoscience |
| Research Group | Pedernales Group (Kavli Institute of Nanoscience) |
| Supervisor | Assistant Professor Julen Simón Pedernales |
| Position Type | Full-time (38 hours/week / 1.0 FTE) |
| Contract Duration | 4 years (1.5 years initial contract + 2.5 years extension after go/no-go assessment) |
| Salary Range | €3,204 to €4,051 gross per month (+ 8% holiday allowance & 8.3% end-of-year bonus) |
| Job ID | 3685 |
| Application Deadline | 15 September 2026 |
Research Area
- Theoretical Quantum Physics
- Quantum Optics & Optomechanics
- Quantum Sensing and Metrology
- Quantum Information Theory
- Foundations of Quantum Mechanics & Quantum-to-Classical Transition
- Interface between Gravity and Quantum Mechanics
Location
Delft, Netherlands (Department of Quantum Nanoscience, Kavli Institute of Nanoscience, TU Delft)
Eligibility / Qualification
Required Qualifications:
- Education: Master’s degree in Physics or a closely related discipline.
- Knowledge: Strong background in quantum mechanics and mathematics.
- Technical Skills: Experience with scientific programming tools.
- Language Proficiency: Strong command of written and spoken English (meeting TU Delft Graduate School requirements).
Desirable / Advantageous Background:
- Quantum optics
- Quantum sensing and metrology
- Optomechanics and mechanical quantum systems
- Quantum information theory
- Foundations of quantum mechanics
- Interface between gravity and quantum mechanics
Job Description
- Develop analytical and numerical models to describe the quantum dynamics of mechanical systems and their interaction with complex environments.
- Investigate quantum control and noise mitigation methods to prepare, manipulate, and protect fragile quantum states.
- Bridge experimentally grounded models with theoretical frameworks in quantum information to explore tests of fundamental physics.
- Publish research findings in leading peer-reviewed scientific journals and present work at international scientific conferences.
- Contribute to teaching activities and assist in supervising Bachelor’s and Master’s students.
How to Apply
Applications must be submitted online via the official TU Delft Career Portal. (Applications sent via email or post will not be processed).
Required Documents:
- Cover Letter (maximum 1 page).
- Detailed CV, including academic transcripts from Bachelor’s and Master’s studies.
- Scientific Writing Sample: Master’s thesis (or a draft thesis, Bachelor’s thesis, manuscript, or research report if the Master’s thesis is still in progress).
Contact for Enquiries: Assistant Professor Julen Simón Pedernales (
j.j.simonpedernales[at]tudelft.nl)
Last Date to Apply
15 September 2026
