PhD Position on Cryogenic Low-Noise Low-Power Sub-10GHz Receivers

Cryogenic low-noise low-power sub-10GHz receivers.

Job Description
In this Ph.D. research, we will focus on the development of cryogenic CMOS receivers with 4K noise temperature. We will first investigate the essential functionalities required to read out the multiple resonators and compare different readout architectures based on their potential in scalability, intrinsic signal-to-noise ratio, and shortest readout time. Then, the impact of the circuit nonidealities, such as noise and distortion, on the readout fidelity is investigated. Based on this study, the system-level specifications for readout electronics will be quantified. We will review the characteristics and behavior of CMOS active and passive components at cryogenic temperatures. While keeping the device characteristics and required specs in mind, the block diagram and circuit schematic, including low-noise amplifiers, mixers, and baseband amplifiers, will be designed and measured.

Requirements

• M.Sc. in microelectronics.
• A strong background in analog, mixed-signal, and RF circuit design.
• Good presentation, writing and communication skills.
• Ability to work in an international, collaborative, environment.
• Demonstrable creativity and originality.

TU Delft
Delft University of Technology is built on strong foundations. As creators of the world-famous Dutch waterworks and pioneers in biotech, TU Delft is a top international university combining science, engineering and design. It delivers world class results in education, research and innovation to address challenges in the areas of energy, climate, mobility, health and digital society. For generations, our engineers have proven to be entrepreneurial problem-solvers, both in business and in a social context.

At TU Delft we embrace diversity as one of our core values and we actively engage to be a university where you feel at home and can flourish. We value different perspectives and qualities. We believe this makes our work more innovative, the TU Delft community more vibrant and the world more just. Together, we imagine, invent and create solutions using technology to have a positive impact on a global scale. That is why we invite you to apply. Your application will receive fair consideration.

Challenge. Change. Impact!

QuTech
QuTech is a mission-driven research institute run jointly by Delft University of Technology (TU Delft) and the Netherlands Organisation for Applied Scientific Research (TNO). Together, we work on a radically new technology with world-changing potential, developing scalable prototypes of a quantum computer and an intrinsically safe quantum internet.

We are creating the quantum future, and we believe that quantum technology will be a game changer in many social and economic sectors – including health, agriculture, climate and safety. To achieve our ambitious goals, we bring together scientists, engineers and industry in an inspiring environment, with plenty of space for ambition, entrepreneurship and innovation. Our research and engineering activities are conducted in three divisions: Quantum Computing, Quantum Internet and Qubit Research. 220 FTE and over 300 curious people work in our divisions and support teams, and we actively welcome new colleagues who share our vision and enthusiasm.

Have a look at our video and get a glimpse of QuTech.

Conditions of employment
Doctoral candidates will be offered a 4-year period of employment in principle, but in the form of 2 employment contracts. An initial 1,5 year contract with an official go/no go progress assessment within 15 months. Followed by an additional contract for the remaining 2,5 years assuming everything goes well and performance requirements are met.

Salary and benefits are in accordance with the Collective Labour Agreement for Dutch Universities, increasing from € 2872 per month in the first year to € 3670 in the fourth year. As a PhD candidate you will be enrolled in the TU Delft Graduate School. The TU Delft Graduate School provides an inspiring research environment with an excellent team of supervisors, academic staff and a mentor. The Doctoral Education Programme is aimed at developing your transferable, discipline-related and research skills.

The TU Delft offers a customisable compensation package, discounts on health insurance, and a monthly work costs contribution. Flexible work schedules can be arranged.

Will you need to relocate to the Netherlands for this job? TU Delft is committed to make your move as smooth as possible! The HR unit, Coming to Delft Service, offers information on their website to help you prepare your relocation. In addition, Coming to Delft Service organises events to help you settle in the Netherlands, and expand your (social) network in Delft. A Dual Career Programme is available, to support your accompanying partner with their job search in the Netherlands.

Additional information
If you would like more information about this vacancy or the selection procedure, please contact Masoud Babaie, via m.babaie@tudelft.nl.  

Application procedure
Are you interested in this vacancy? Please apply no later than 23 March 2025 via the application button and upload the following documents:

• CV (incl. a list of publications, if any).
• Motivational letter stating your background and motivation (max. 1 page).
• The name, affiliation, and e-mail address of two references, incl. the MSc thesis supervisor(s), who are willing to submit a support letter upon request.
• A short summary of your MSc thesis (max. 1 page).

You can address your application to Masoud Babaie.

Doing a PhD at TU Delft requires English proficiency at a certain level to ensure that the candidate is able to communicate and interact well, participate in English-taught Doctoral Education courses, and write scientific articles and a final thesis. For more details please check the Graduate Schools Admission Requirements.

Please note:

• You can apply online. We will not process applications sent by email and/or post.
• A pre-employment screening can be part of the selection procedure.
• For the final candidates, a knowledge security check will be part of the application procedure. For more information on this check, please consult Chapter 8 of the National Knowledge Security Guidelines. We carry out this check on the basis of legitimate interest.
• Please do not contact us for unsolicited services

38 - 40 hours per week

Mekelweg 5