PhD Position on Neuromorphic Quantum-Inspired Optimisation and Simulation University of Twente in Netherlands

This PhD position is part of the European EIC Pathfinder Open project Neuromorphic Quantum-Inspired Optimisation and Simulation (NEQIOS), a collaborative effort involving leading companies such as IBM and Enlightra, and renowned universities including Oxford, Heidelberg, and Radboud. The NEQIOS project aims to develop a new class of brain-inspired, or neuromorphic, computing platforms that can efficiently address some of the most challenging computational problems in science and industry. These problems span applications in materials discovery, quantum chemistry, logistics, energy systems, and AI-driven optimization, areas traditionally considered the domain of quantum computers but still highly demanding for both classical and current quantum technologies.

As a PhD student, you will focus on applying reconfigurable nonlinear processing units (RNPUs)—a concept introduced in Nature 577, 341-345, 2020—to solve computational problems that are considered hard. Your research will be embedded in the NanoElectronics Group led by Prof. Wilfred G. van der Wiel at the University of Twente. The group specializes in nanoelectronics, with research interests covering electronic and magnetic properties of nanoscale systems, neuromorphic electronics, quantum (spin) electronics, 2D electronic systems, and acousto-electronics. The NanoElectronics Group is also a founding member of BRAINS, the Center for Brain-Inspired Computing at the University of Twente.

The faculty of Electrical Engineering, Mathematics and Computer Science (EEMCS) at the University of Twente is dedicated to advancing information and communication technology (ICT) through mathematics, electronics, and computer technology. The faculty collaborates intensively with industrial partners and researchers both nationally and internationally, and its research is housed within three multidisciplinary UT research institutes: Mesa+ Institute, TechMed Centre, and Digital Society Institute.

Applicants should have a strong background in physics, electrical engineering, computer science, or a related discipline, with experience in computational methods, quantum mechanics, electronics, or optimization. Proficiency in English and research experience are required. The application process includes submitting a CV, publication list, and a short motivation letter. Screening is part of the selection process.

The application deadline is January 31, 2026. For more information, you may contact Prof. Wilfred G. van der Wiel at [email protected]. Apply via the University of Twente careers portal using the provided link.