PhD Position Advanced Adaptive Optics for Laser Satellite Communications

Delft University of Technology; Delft; On-site; EUR 22,320 - 29,016; Full time

Job summary

TU Delft (Delft University of Technology) invites applications for a PhD project within the STARS program, focusing on Smart 3D Tomographic Adaptive Optics for turbulence-resilient optical communication systems. You will work on laser satellite links to improve ground-to-satellite optical communication performance.

The research involves laboratory validation, development of wavefront estimation and control algorithms, and collaboration with partners including Airbus Netherlands.

Qualifications

• MSc degree in Physics, Electrical, Mechanical, Optical Engineering or related field.
• Experience with estimation algorithms and adaptive optics.
• Strong analytical and problem-solving abilities.
• Proficiency in English (minimum B2, preferably C1/C2).
• Ability to work in a multidisciplinary research environment.

Responsibilities

• Develop and validate advanced adaptive optics systems in the lab.
• Develop estimation and control algorithms for wavefront compensation.
• Validate concept using optical communication testbeds.
• Collaborate with academic and industrial partners; participate in project milestones.

Skills

Kalman filtering

Gradient-based methods

Advanced estimation

Multidisciplinary

Analytical skills

English proficiency

Education

MSc degree (or equivalent) recognized in the Netherlands

Job description

Help shape the future of laser satellite communications by joining our team. You will design and develop advanced adaptive optics systems that enhance the reliability and performance of high-speed data transmission through space.

Job description

Laser satellite communication is an emerging technology with strong potential for high-capacity data transmission, particularly for intersatellite links. However, achieving reliable optical communication between ground stations and satellites remains challenging due to atmospheric turbulence.

This PhD position is part of the STARS: Smart 3D Tomographic Adaptive Optics for Turbulence-Resilient Optical Communication Systems project. The research focuses on optical communication links with geostationary satellites.

Geostationary satellites are widely used for communication applications, such as television and radio broadcasting, due to their fixed position relative to the Earth. At the same time, their large distance introduces significant challenges in terms of signal strength and robustness.

The project investigates a novel approach in which multiple laser beams are combined to achieve constructive interference at the satellite. This increases the optical intensity at the receiver and improves communication performance over long distances.

Within this PhD project, you will focus on the development and experimental validation of the advanced adaptive optics system required to enable this concept. The work includes the development of estimation and control algorithms and their validation in a laboratory environment. A key aspect of the research is the estimation of the required wavefront compensation to maximize the transferred optical energy.

The position is embedded in a collaborative environment with academic and industrial partners. Supervision will be provided by TU Delft and Airbus Netherlands. The project is part of a broader consortium including TU Eindhoven, FSO Instruments, Celestia STS, IMEC Leuven, Flexible Optical, TNO, and SES.

Job requirements

• MSc degree (or equivalent) recognized in the Netherlands
• Background in Physics, Electrical Engineering, Mechanical Engineering, Optical Engineering, or a related field
• Demonstrated experience with advanced estimation algorithms (e.g. Kalman filtering, gradient-based methods)
• Strong analytical and problem-solving skills
• Proficiency in English (minimum B2, preferably C1/C2)
• Good written and verbal communication skills
• Ability to work in a multidisciplinary research environment
• A security screening may be part of the selection procedure due to knowledge protection regulations

TU Delft (Delft University of Technology)

Working at TU Delft means contributing to solutions that really make a difference.

At TU Delft, our people make the difference. With their knowledge and curiosity, our staff provide a high-quality education and conduct pioneering research that extends beyond the campus. You will have the opportunity to take the initiative, work with others, and grow as a professional.

Working at TU Delft means join an international community of professionals and students. Together, we create knowledge, innovations, and solutions that help move the world forward.

Faculty Mechanical Engineering

ME is a dynamic and innovative faculty with high-tech lab facilities and international reach. It’s a large faculty but also versatile, so we can often make unique connections by combining different disciplines. This is reflected in ME’s outstanding, state-of-the-art education, which trains students to become responsible and socially engaged engineers and scientists.

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.

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 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.