Postdoc in Quantum Torsional Resonators and Superconducting Qubits, TU Delft (Steele Lab, ERC QTORSION)

Job Description

TU Delft’s Steele Lab is hiring a postdoc in quantum nanomechanics to put heavy torsional resonators into quantum superpositions using a superconducting qubit, as part of the ERC Advanced project QTORSION on whether gravity could be quantum.

At a glance

• Position: Postdoctoral researcher
• Where: Steele Lab, Department of Quantum Nanoscience, Faculty of Applied Sciences, TU Delft, Netherlands
• Supervisor: Gary Steele
• Duration: Two years, with the possibility of extension; 38 hours a week
• Funding: EU Horizon Europe / ERC project QTORSION (101266833)
• Apply: 15 October 2026

About the quantum torsional resonator project

• Design, fabricate and measure nanomechanical resonators coupled to superconducting quantum circuits
• Use silicon nitride ribbon torsional resonators coupled to a superconducting qubit directly through magnetic flux, a concept developed in the group
• Use quantum control of heavy objects through the qubit to create quantum superpositions of unprecedented size
• Carry out complex nanofabrication in the Kavli Nanolab cleanroom in Delft
• Collaborate with local and international experimental and theoretical colleagues, and develop your own ideas

The ad frames the question simply: quantum mechanics describes atoms and devices well, but the everyday world looks classical, and a century of work has not settled how gravity fits into quantum theory. Quantum experiments with large masses are one way to probe that boundary, and this project aims to push mechanical experiments into new regimes to do it.

Why this role matters

Tests of quantum mechanics with massive objects are among the few table-top experiments that could say something about quantum gravity. The post combines two sought-after skill sets, advanced nanofabrication and superconducting-qubit control, in a group with its own coupling scheme, which makes it valuable both for fundamental physics careers and for quantum hardware roles in industry.

What TU Delft is looking for

• A PhD in physics
• Or a PhD in electrical or mechanical engineering, if backed by strong motivation and experience in quantum mechanics or nanomechanics

Pay and location

The ad says salary and benefits follow the Collective Labour Agreement for Dutch Universities but does not give a figure. Benefits listed include an ABP pension, an individual choice budget, 232 leave hours a year (at 38 hours a week), partially paid parental leave and training opportunities. The contract is for two years, with the possibility of extension. TU Delft’s Coming to Delft Service and Dual Career Programme help international hires and their partners. TU Delft carries out a knowledge-security risk assessment in the final stages of selection, based on the CV and motivation letter, and a pre-employment screening can also be part of the procedure.

How to apply

Apply through the official TU Delft page. The closing date is 15 October 2026. Apply online with a CV, MSc and bachelor’s transcripts, a one-page synopsis of your PhD results and a cover letter, addressed to Gary Steele; applications by email or post are not processed.

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