PhD in Photonics in Technical University of Denmark – Denmark

Summary

The Technical University of Denmark (DTU Electro) is offering three PhD Scholarships in Engineering of Quantum Light Sources and System Architecture for Photonic Quantum Computing. These positions are part of the EU Horizon Europe MSCA Doctoral Network “A Photonic Quantum Computer (PHOTONIQC),” which involves 15 PhD students across seven countries. The projects focus on the design, simulation, nanofabrication, and optical characterization of quantum-dot-based single-photon sources, as well as building system architecture for cluster state quantum computing. Candidates must hold a two-year master's degree (120 ECTS points) and meet a mobility requirement. The contract is temporary, full-time for 3 years, with an expected start date of March 1, 2027. The application deadline is November 15, 2026.

Key Facts

Department	Quantum Light Sources Group – DTU Electro
Position Type	PhD Scholarships
Discipline	Photonics
Research Area	Engineering of Quantum Light Sources and System Architecture for Photonic Quantum Computing
Degree Required	Two-year master's degree (120 ECTS points) or a similar degree with an academic level equivalent to a two-year master's degree.
Funding	EU Horizon Europe MSCA Doctoral Network “A Photonic Quantum Computer (PHOTONIQC),” Grant Agreement No. 101312868
Contract Duration	Temporary – Full-time – 3 years
Language	English
Deadline	2026-11-15
Employer Address	Ørsteds Plads, Kgs. Lyngby, 2800, DK
Employer Contact	Niels Gregersen, [email protected], tel.: +45 4525 3789

About the Project

The PhD projects are part of the PHOTONIQC MSCA Doctoral Network, aiming to construct a new generation of components for distributed photonic quantum computing. PhD1 focuses on the design and numerical simulation of quantum-dot-based single-photon sources using advanced optical simulation tools. PhD2 involves the nanofabrication of these devices in DTU Nanolab cleanroom facilities, utilizing quantum dot imaging, lithography, etching, and metal deposition. Both PhD1 and PhD2 aim to increase the efficiency and photon indistinguishability of sources. PhD3 will focus on building system architecture for cluster state quantum computing. All projects contribute to the overall goal of experimental implementations of multi-node distributed quantum computing.

Key Responsibilities

• Employ simulation techniques to analyze single-photon source performance and propose new designs (PhD1).
• Perform optical characterization of fabricated devices in terms of purity, efficiency, and photon indistinguishability (PhD2).
• Establish a network architecture blueprint for photonic graph state computation (PhD3).
• Supervise MSc/BSc/Fagprojekt project students.
• Contribute to the development of new SPS designs.
• Document research with scientific articles and conference contributions.

Who Should Apply

Candidates with a two-year master's degree (120 ECTS points) or equivalent, who have not resided or carried out their main activity in Denmark for more than 12 months in the 3 years prior to recruitment, are encouraged to apply. The positions are suitable for individuals interested in the design, simulation, nanofabrication, and optical characterization of quantum-dot-based single-photon sources, or in developing system architecture for photonic quantum computing.

About the Employer

The Technical University of Denmark (DTU) employs more than 300 skilled researchers with competencies in electrical and photonics engineering. DTU has 13,800 students, 1,600 PhD students, and 6,500 employees. The Quantum Light Sources Group at DTU Electro is seeking candidates for these PhD Scholarships.

Frequently Asked Questions

What is the application deadline for these PhD scholarships?

The application deadline is November 15, 2026, at 23:59 Danish time.

What is the required academic qualification for applicants?

Applicants must have a two-year master's degree (120 ECTS points) or an equivalent degree.

Is there a mobility requirement for these positions?

Yes, candidates must not have resided or carried out their main activity in Denmark for more than 12 months in the 3 years before their recruitment date.

What documents are required for the application?

The application must include a cover letter, curriculum vitae, and grade transcripts with BSc/MSc diploma (in English) including an official description of the grading scale.

When is the expected start date for the positions?

The offer starting date is March 1, 2027, or according to mutual agreement.

Are there opportunities for international secondments?

Yes, the projects include secondments at various international institutions such as Ruhr University, CNRS, CEA, Quandela, and International Iberian Nanotechnology Laboratory.