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Delft University of Technology

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PhD Position in Theoretical Physics: Mechanical Quantum Sensors for Fundamental Physics Delft University of Technology in Netherlands

Degree Level

PhD

Field of study

Mathematics

Funding

Full funding available

Deadline

Sep 15, 2026

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Country

Netherlands

University

Delft University of Technology

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Keywords

Mathematics
Theoretical Physics
Quantum Mechanics
Quantum Gravity
Metrology
Optomechanics
Quantum Sensing
Quantum Communication
Physics

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About this position

PhD opportunity at Delft University of Technology (TU Delft) in theoretical physics, focused on mechanical quantum sensors for fundamental physics. The project sits in the Faculty of Applied Sciences, within the Quantum Nanoscience department at the Kavli Institute of Nanoscience, and is led by Assistant Professor Julen Simón Pedernales.

The research aims to build analytical and numerical models for the quantum dynamics of mechanical systems and their interactions with complex environments. Topics include quantum control, noise mitigation, quantum sensing and metrology, optomechanics, quantum information theory, decoherence, the quantum-to-classical transition, and the interface between gravity and quantum mechanics. The work is theory-heavy and combines experimentally grounded modeling with foundational questions about what laboratory-scale quantum experiments can reveal about nature.

Students will work closely with the supervisor, collaborate with researchers at TU Delft and international partners, publish in leading journals, present at conferences, and contribute to supervising Bachelor’s and Master’s students. The position is designed to develop the candidate into an independent researcher in theoretical quantum physics.

Eligibility highlights: a Master’s degree in Physics or a closely related field, strong quantum mechanics and mathematics background, scientific programming experience, and good English proficiency. Helpful extras include experience in quantum optics, quantum sensing and metrology, optomechanics, quantum information theory, foundations of quantum mechanics, or gravity-quantum interfaces.

Funding: 4-year doctoral employment in principle, with salary from €3204 to €4051 gross per month, plus holiday allowance, end-of-year bonus, health insurance discounts, and work-cost contribution.

Application deadline: 15 September 2026. Apply online through the TU Delft application button and upload a cover letter, detailed CV with transcripts, and an optional writing sample (e.g., thesis or manuscript). Email/post applications are not processed.

Funding details

Full funding including tuition fees and living expenses is available for this position. The scholarship covers all educational costs and provides a monthly stipend.

How to apply

Please submit your application including a cover letter, CV, academic transcripts, and contact information for two references. Applications should be sent via the online portal before the deadline.

More information can be found here

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