PhD Position in Quantum Networks Using Integrated Devices (MDI-QKD, CyberQ), Ghent University – imec

Job Description

IDLab-Design at Ghent University – imec is looking for a PhD student for the CyberQ project, a collaboration with DTU, SiPhotonicIC, DFM and GlobalConnect. CyberQ develops next-generation quantum key distribution systems: improving the security of continuous-variable QKD, refining multi-party protocols for networks and making systems more resilient and compact, on a path towards device-independent CV-QKD. This PhD focuses on experimental quantum photonic devices and subsystems for measurement-device-independent QKD (MDI-QKD), which removes attacks on the detectors.

At a glance

• Position: Doctoral fellow (12 months, extendable to 48 after evaluation)
• Group: IDLab-Design, Ghent University – imec
• Location: Ghent, Belgium
• Start: By mutual agreement
• Funding: Danish research funding (the ad names both the Independent Research Fund Denmark and Innovation Fund Denmark)
• Apply: open until filled (re-checked 14 October 2026)

About the project

• Investigate and build advanced quantum photonic devices and subsystems for MDI-QKD
• Contribute to CyberQ’s aims: stronger CV-QKD security, multi-party network protocols, resilience and miniaturisation
• Develop working solutions to open research problems in practical quantum communication
• Work with partners across Belgium and Denmark in industry and academia

What imec is looking for

• A master’s degree (held or soon) in physics, electrical engineering, photonics, computer science or a related field
• Fluent spoken and written English
• The ability to work independently and in an interdisciplinary team, and to tackle complex problems

Nice to have

• Academic or industrial work experience or publications
• Strong experimental skills in quantum networks, and characterisation of nanophotonic or quantum communication devices
• Specialisation in quantum mechanics, quantum optics, quantum information or cryptography

Pay and location

The doctoral fellowship equals 100% of the net salary of an academic assistant (AAP) in the same family situation, set by Ghent University according to family status and seniority. The contract starts with 12 months and can be extended to a maximum of 48 months after a positive evaluation.

How to apply

Apply through the official imec job posting. imec’s posting does not give a closing date, so the role is open until filled; ResearchJobs.in will re-check this listing on 14 October 2026. Check the posting for location and work-authorisation details before you apply.

See all our quantum technology jobs, or browse more research jobs on ResearchJobs.in.