PhD Position Advanced Adaptive Optics Laser Satellite Communications NL, CD

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.

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.

• 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

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.

Salary and benefits are in accordance with the Collective Labour Agreement for Dutch Universities, increasing from €3059 to €3881 gross per month, from the first year to the fourth year based on a full‑time contract (38 hours), plus 8% holiday allowance and an end‑of‑year bonus of 8.3%.

As a PhD candidate you will be enrolled in the TU Delft Graduate School. The 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 offers information on their website to help you prepare your relocation. In addition, TU 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.