PhD Monitor
/Detail
Quantum Physics and Optical Engineering● OpenPreview

PhD in Entanglement Routing in Quantum Optical Fiber Networks

Develop innovative quantum routing architectures and optical testbeds for telecom-grade quantum networks.

Best for:Best for master's graduates in physics or electrical engineering with a strong background in fiber-optics and quantum optics.

Eindhoven University of Technology · Eindhoven, Netherlands · R1 · First-stage researcher
More professors at Eindhoven University of Technology
quantum networkingentanglement routingfiber-optic communicationquantum opticsoptical switching
Deadline
Until filled
rolling
Funding
Salaried
€3.2k–€4.1k/mo
Start date
flexible
Fixed-term
Location
Eindhoven
Netherlands

Overview

Eindhoven University of Technology offers a fully funded four-year PhD position focusing on entanglement routing in quantum optical fiber networks within the Smart Optical Networks Lab. The selected candidate will build an experimental testbed, investigate the coexistence of classical and quantum traffic, and address real-world scalability constraints in partnership with industry leader KPN. The project combines theoretical simulation with experimental validation in optical switching and quantum communication. Alongside research, the candidate will contribute to departmental education and mentor students.

PhDquantum communicationentanglementquantum optical networksphotonicsexperimental physicstelecommunications

What you'll do

  • Design and develop an innovative entanglement-based routing architecture and protocol for quantum optical fiber networks.
  • Set up an experimental testbed for multi-node quantum optical fiber networks enabling entanglement generation, detection, and frequency conversion.
  • Investigate the coexistence of classical telecom traffic and quantum signals under impairments such as noise and crosstalk.
  • Perform theoretical and simulation studies and validate them using experimental setups involving optical switches.
  • Contribute to teaching activities within the department and mentor bachelor's and master's students during their research projects.
  • Collaborate closely with industrial partners like KPN to address real-world scalability and interoperability constraints.

Requirements

Degree required: Master's degree in (applied) physics, electrical engineering, or related subjects

Degree offered: PhD

Language: English; C1 level proficiency in spoken and written English

Instruction: English

Required skills
  • Solid background in fiber-optic communication, quantum optics, and networks
  • Knowledge of programming languages such as Python
  • Research-oriented attitude and ability to work in an interdisciplinary team
  • Interest in collaborating with industrial partners and developing teaching skills
Nice to have
Prior experience with setting up quantum optical communication and network experimentsBackground in Electronics or FPGA

Funding & terms

Type
Salaried
Amount
€3.2k–€4.1k/mo
Duration
4 years
Programme
KPN
KPN

How to apply

Deadline: 2026-11-14 · open until filled

Submit your complete application online through the university recruitment portal by the specified deadline. Ensure all requested documents, including your CV, motivation letter, and academic transcripts or theses, are attached in full. Applications sent directly via email will not be processed.

Documents required
  • Cover letter
  • Curriculum vitae
  • List of publications
  • Contact information of three references
  • Bachelor's thesis
  • Master's thesis
  • Scientific papers
↗Apply on site

Contact

Nicola Calabretta· Hiring Manager

N.Calabretta@tue.nl

NC
Prof.
Nicola Calabretta
Department of Electrical Engineering
Lab
Smart Optical Networks Lab
Eindhoven University of Technology
Netherlands
See the full position

Create a free profile to unlock your personal match score, the full requirements, funding details and how to apply — in English or Persian.

No card · 10 free AI match scores
Ready to apply?
27 days until the deadline — open this position on its website.