Three PhD positions are available in my group at the Department of Quantum Nanoscience, TU Delft, to investigate the electronic structure and magnetic behavior of molecular and atomic spins on surfaces for quantum information science. The positions form the core of the ERC Starting Grant research project SPINOCCHIO (“A new quantum chemical approach to spins on surfaces”). In September 2026, I will relocate from KU Leuven to TU Delft to launch my group, take up a position as Assistant Professor, and develop the ERC, SPINOCCHIO project.
About the project
The project will explore how to design magnetically stable and optically addressable spins on surfaces, a key step towards future quantum technologies. To this end, we will develop a novel quantum chemical approach combining periodic quantum embedding with a coarse-grained treatment of strong correlation. By advancing our understanding of the static and dynamic behaviour of spins on surfaces, we aim to help bring molecular quantum technologies to fruition.
You can find more here: https://research.kuleuven.be/EU/p/he/p1/erc/spinocchio.
Candidate profile
• MSc degree in Chemistry, Physics, Materials Science, or related disciplines.
• Background in condensed matter theory, electronic structure methods, many-body physics, molecular simulations is highly appreciated.
• Knowledge of magnetism and open-shell systems is highly appreciated.
• Experience with computational methods and scientific programming is highly desirable.
• Strong analytical, problem-solving, and communication skills.
• Ability to work independently as well as in multidisciplinary research teams.
Research directions
Depending on fit, successful candidates may contribute to one or more of the following research subprojects:
1. Investigating the effect of the environment on the magnetic behavior of spins on surfaces
2. Quantifying spin–phonon couplings to model the magnetic relaxation of spins on surfaces
3. Developing new optical cycles to enable the optical addressability of individual spins on surfaces
4. Enabling a cost-effective treatment of magnetic exchange interactions in surface spin lattices
How to apply
If you want to be part of a vibrant, dynamic, and highly interdisciplinary environment, push yourself to grow independently, and contribute to frontier research in quantum nanoscience, please send your application to maristella.alessio@kuleuven.be, including:
1. Cover letter in which you describe your personal motivation and specific qualification for this position (maximum 1 page)
2. CV (with contact details of one or two referees)
3. Link to Master’s thesis. Please also include a brief description of previous research or thesis work (maximum 1-2 pages)
Application deadline: Open until filled. Please check the TU Delft website — the job opening will be posted soon, and applications should then be completed online as well.
Start date: Negotiable. The candidate mainly working on the 1st subproject should preferably start on 1 October 2026, while the other two positions can be delayed by up to six months.