Researcher: Quantum design kits In Photonic Integration Group

Introduction

• Develop the conceptual framework for describing the pilot production of quantum photonic integrated circuits from the designer perspective with process design kits (PDKs).
• Develop methods to quantitatively describe functional quantum information processing elements in terms of their physical integration and design flow implementation.
• Contribute to defining of design flow of photonic integrated circuits for quantum applications.
• Contribute to and accommodate relevant standardisation initiatives, including commercial standards such that design kits for innovative new quantum building blocks that can eventually be implemented within a diversity of open and proprietary software titles.
• Enable and support a team of designers and design tool developers across Europe with the creation of standard format design kits for quantum communications, sensing and computation chips and the associated validation methods.
• Break down requirements into tangible deliverables and deploy methods for assessing design kit maturity.

Job Description

A new generation of quantum information processing elements are being invented for computation, encryption, and sensing. The building blocks for these circuits include neutral atoms, trapped ions, deterministic and probabilistic sources, strain-optic modulators, nonlinear mixers, transducers, single photon receivers and more. Miniaturization is achievable through photonic integration, and this position will enable the design for these new classes of building blocks.

The combination of quantum technology and integrated photonics offers a compelling route to upscaled quantum sensors, next-paradigm computation, and ultra-secure communications. Photonics4quantum (P4Q) is enabling this vision and integrating the capabilities into standardised design kits to enable a broad range of innovators to realise quantum information processing circuits on the latest research and development platforms.

P4Q brings together 29 partners, comprised of universities, research and technology organizations (RTOs), and industrial foundries. Within the project, Process Design Kits and Assembly Design Kits are being developed by the consortium partners, so that design and production are better aligned. Various photonic platforms are also receiving attention, such as gallium arsenide (GaAs), silicon nitride (SiN), thin-film lithium niobate (TFLN), and alumina (AlOx). The users of the Pilot Line will perform the designs. This position focusses on the framework and work-flows for building design kits for quantum information processing.

The successful candidate will have the opportunity to work on highly complex and high capability platforms and workflows for designing and validating quantum photonic integrated circuits. You will be part of a team bringing the latest design methods and fabrication processes together for prototypes and production in across multiple market segments. You will work with multiple teams developing technology processes and pioneer creation of PDKs and design flows for quantum applications.

The role is funded by Photonics4Quantum European – one of the six European pilot lines for quantum technologies. An EU-wide initiative targeted at integrating chip design resources to offer a one-stop capability to designers. Further information may be found here.

https://www.utwente.nl/en/news/2026/1/763542/50-million-euro-european-quantum-pilot-p4q-launched

The position for the quantum design kit researcher will be in the Photonic Integration group at TU/e. The group leverages years of expertise in integrated photonics platform technology, pilot lines and design kit development. Synergies are foreseen with the design teams at TU/e already working on the PIXEurope

Pilot Line and the euroCDP design platform. The existing team focusses on design flows for classical photonic integrated circuits and electronic and heterogeneous technologies. This new position focusses work-flows for quantum information processing. The role benefits from the experience built up with the Joint European Platform for Photonic Integrated Circuits and Compenents (JePPIX.eu). The group has played an important role in open standards such as openEPDA.org and within the open access community

jeppix.eu.

JePPIX: http://www.jeppix.eu/

EU chip design platform: https://eurocdp.eu/

PIXEurope: https://pixeurope.eu/

Job Requirements

• Doctoral education in electrical engineering or physical sciences or equivalent.
• 3-5 years of experience in experimental research on quantum information processing devices and or circuits is required.
• Understanding of Process Design Kits concept in semicon industry is an advantage but not a requirement.
• Strong aptitude and proven track record of hands-on experience with design and test automation is an advantage.
• Ability to establish good working relationships, and possess strong verbal and written communication skills.
• Excellent interpersonal, analytical, and problem-solving skills across the distinct. disciplines of quantum science and photonic integration.
• Ability to work in teams and collaborate effectively with people in different functions.

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:

• Full-time employment for 2 years, with a possibility of a one off extension of 2 years
• A monthly salary of minimum € 3,546 to maximum € 6,433 for full-time employment, depending on your knowledge and experience (scale 10/11 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 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 have more information about the position, please contact the hiring manager Dima Pustakhod, d.pustakhod@tue.nl, or group chair Kevin Williams, k.a.williams@tue.nl.

Visit our website for more information about the application process. You can also contact Kevin Caris HR-Advisor, k.t.caris@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.
• Please do not contact us for unsolicited services.