Join us for an exciting and excellent Doctoral student journey to create the future of networks!
About us
The division of Communications, Antennas and Optical Networks conducts cutting edge research covering several aspects of communication infrastructures. The Optical Networks (ON) group performs research in network architecture design and optimization, control and management, datacenter networks, fiber access and mobile transport networks, network sustainability, reliability, security and survivability, converged fiber-wireless networks, and optical quantum networks.
About the research project
The quantum network is anticipated to surpass the classical network in both computing power and security. As a fundamental component of the classical network, the adaptable optical communication network must take on the task of facilitating the transition to these new communication and computing paradigms by linking quantum processors in a networked manner.
This project focuses on designing and developing optical switching testbeds and networking protocols for Quantum networks. The goal is to enable secure, low-latency, and scalable communication between distributed quantum information processing platforms. The research integrates quantum communication principles with high-speed optical networks, emphasizing entanglement-aware routing, quantum compatibility, and system-level performance evaluation. The candidate will develop a hybrid simulation framework and prototype optical switching solutions to support future quantum networking and distributed quantum computing architectures.
Who we are looking for
The following requirements are mandatory:
- To qualify as a Doctoral student, you must have a Master's degree (masterexamen) of 120 credits or a Master’s degree (magisterexamen) of 60 credits* in Electrical Engineering, Optical Communications or a related field.
- Strong written and verbal communication skills in English.
- Solid fundational knowledge of classical networking fundamentals, including routing, switching, protocol design, and SDN.
- Strong background in optical networking, network protocol design, and high-speed optical communications.
- Experience in system-level modeling and performance evaluation of optical transmission systems.
*for students with an education earned outside of Sweden, a 4-year Bachelor’s degree is accepted.
The following experience will strengthen your application:
- Good understanding of quantum communication principles and quantum network requirements.
- Background in quantum network security.
- Background in physical-layer aware network design.
- Prior experience with quantum simulation tools (e.g., QuTiP, Qiskit).
- Hands-on experience with optical switching hardware or photonic signal processing is a strong asset.
- Publication records in optical networking, quantum information, or data center networking.
What you will do
- Take courses at an advanced level within the Graduate school of Electrical Engineering and Microtechnology and nanoscience.
- Develop your own scientific concepts and communicate the results of your research verbally and in writing
- The position generally also includes teaching on Chalmers' undergraduate level or performing other duties corresponding to 20 percent of working hours.
- Develop and calibrate an optical switching testbed for distributed quantum computing applications, including optical routing, and signal handling.
- Design, implement, and evaluate networking protocols tailored for quantum communication, such as QKD routing, entanglement-aware switching, and quantum data transport.
- Document and disseminate research findings through peer-reviewed publications, conferences, and technical reports.
Contract terms
- The Doctoral student positions are fully funded from start.
- The position is a fixed-term appointment of four years, with the possibility to teach up to 20%, which extends the position up to five years.
- A starting salary of 35,725 SEK per month (valid from May 1, 2026).
- Doctoral studies require physical presence throughout the entire study period. A valid residence permit must be presented by the study start date; otherwise the admission may be withdrawn.
What we offer
- As a Doctoral student at Chalmers, you are an employee and enjoy all employee benefits. Read more about working at Chalmers and our benefits for employees.
- A dynamic and inspiring working environment in the coastal city of Gothenburg.
- Read more about Sweden’s generous parental leave, subsidized day care, free schools, healthcare etc at Move To Gothenburg.
Chalmers is dedicated to improving gender balance and actively works with equality projects, such as the GENIE Initiative for gender equality and excellence. We celebrate diversity and consider equality and inclusion as fundamental aspects of all our activities.
If Swedish is not your native language, Chalmers offers Swedish courses to help you settle in.
Find more general information about doctoral studies at Chalmers here.
Application procedure
The application should be written in English and attached as PDF-files, as below. Maximum size for each file is 40 MB. Please note that the system does not support Zip files.
CV
Personal letter
- A brief introduction about yourself.
- A brief motivation as to why you are interested in this position.
Bachelor’s and, if available, master’s thesis together with the transcripts.
Use the button at the foot of the page to reach the application form.
A background check may be conducted as part of the application process.
Please note: The applicant is responsible for ensuring that the application is complete. Incomplete applications and applications sent by email will not be considered. Contact details to references will be requested after the interview.
We welcome your application no later than July 31st.
For questions, please contact:
Rui Lin
Researcher
[email protected]
We look forward to your application!
*** Chalmers declines to consider all offers of further announcement publishing or other types of support for the recruiting process in connection with this position. ***
Chalmers University of Technology in Gothenburg conducts research and education in technology and natural sciences at a high international level. The university has 3100 employees and 10,000 students, and offers education in engineering, science, shipping and architecture. With scientific excellence as a basis, Chalmers promotes knowledge and technical solutions for a sustainable world. Through global commitment and entrepreneurship, we foster an innovative spirit, in close collaboration with wider society.
Chalmers was founded in 1829 and has the same motto today as it did then: Avancez – forward.
Chalmers University of Technology conducts research and education in engineering sciences, architecture, mathematical sciences, natural and nautical sciences, working in close collaboration with industry and society. The strategy for scientific excellence focuses on our eight Areas of Advance; Built Environment, Energy, Information & Communication Technology, Life Science, Materials Science, Nanoscience & Nanotechnology, Production and Transport. The aim is to make an active contribution to a sustainable future using the basic sciences as a foundation and innovation and entrepreneurship as the central driving forces. Chalmers has around 11,000 students and 3,000 employees. New knowledge and improved technology have characterised Chalmers since its foundation in 1829, completely in accordance with the will of William Chalmers and his motto: Avancez!
