PhD Position Experimental Opto-Mechatronics for Laser Satellite Communications

Join us to shape the future of ultra-fast, space-based data transfer! You will work in the lab on novel opto-mechatronics technologies to enable a novel concept to enhance reliability and performance

Job description

Laser satellite communication is an emerging technology with strong potential for future high-capacity data transmission, particularly for intersatellite links. However, 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 purposes, 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 high-tech optical ground station technologies required to enable this concept. The work involves integrating opto-mechatronic and opto-electronic systems and testing them in a laboratory setting. A key aspect is the measurement and active control of individual laser beams to ensure synchronized transmission.

The position is embedded in a collaborative environment with academic and industrial partners. Supervision will be provided by TU Delft, TU Eindhoven, and Airbus Netherlands. The project is part of a broader consortium including 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 experimental research.
• 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 is built on strong foundations. As creators of the world-famous Dutch waterworks and pioneers in biotech, TU Delft is a top international university combining science, engineering and design. It delivers world class results in education, research and innovation to address challenges in the areas of energy, climate, mobility, health and digital society. For generations, our engineers have proven to be entrepreneurial problem-solvers, both in business and in a social context.

At TU Delft we embrace diversity as one of our core values and we actively engage to be a university where you feel at home and can flourish. We value different perspectives and qualities. We believe this makes our work more innovative, the TU Delft community more vibrant and the world more just. Together, we imagine, invent and create solutions using technology to have a positive impact on a global scale. That is why we invite you to apply. Your application will receive fair consideration.

Challenge. Change. Impact!

Faculty Aerospace Engineering

The Faculty of Aerospace Engineering at Delft University of Technology is a leading international community where innovation in aerospace meets global challenges. Our support and scientific staff, including PhD candidates, postdocs, and students, largely work together on three main themes: the energy transition, sustainable aerospace, and safety and security, with the aim of tackling climate change and contributing to the independence and security of Europe.

When you join us, you become part of a diverse, collaborative, and forward-thinking environment where your ideas and perspectives are valued. Our work extends beyond the lab—into field labs, innovation hubs, and partnerships with other faculties, research institutes, governments, and industry, both locally and globally.

We are committed to fostering an inclusive and welcoming workplace, assisted by an active Diversity & Inclusion team. This includes tangible support such as funding for extra personnel for family and caregiving responsibilities, mentoring programmes, and initiatives that promote cultural exchange and integration.

You don’t just join our faculty — you join a community where you can thrive, grow, and help shape the future of aerospace.

Click here to go to the website of the Faculty of Aerospace Engineering.

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.

Salary and benefits are in accordance with the Collective Labour Agreement for Dutch Universities, increasing from €3059 - €3881 gross per month, from the first year to the fourth year based on a fulltime 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 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 on their website 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.

Additional information
If you would like more information about this vacancy or the selection procedure, please contact Rudolf Saathof, via r.saathof@tudelft.nl or .

Application procedure
Are you interested in this vacancy? Please apply no later than 28 Jun 2026 via the application button and upload the following documents:

• CV
• Motivational letter
• Copy of MSc diploma (or equivalent)
• List of courses and grades
• Documentation of experimental experience (e.g. thesis or projects)
• Relevant publications (if applicable)

You can address your application to Rudolf Saathof.

Doing a PhD at TU Delft requires English proficiency at a certain level to ensure that the candidate is able to communicate and interact well, participate in English-taught Doctoral Education courses, and write scientific articles and a final thesis. For more details please check the Graduate Schools Admission Requirements.

Please note:

• You can apply online. We will not process applications sent by email and/or post.
• As part of knowledge security, TU Delft conducts a risk assessment during the recruitment of personnel. We do this, among other things, to prevent the unwanted transfer of sensitive knowledge and technology. The assessment is based on information provided by the candidates themselves, such as their motivation letter and CV, and takes place at the final stages of the selection process. When the outcome of the assessment is negative, the candidate will be informed. The processing of personal data in the context of the risk assessment is carried out on the legal basis of the GDPR: performing a public task in the public interest. You can find more information about this assessment on our website about knowledge security.
• Applying for an exemption for specific research and educational areas is an obligatory part of the selection procedure for this vacancy. This exemption must be obtained from the Ministry of Education, Culture and Science (OCW) before an employment contract is agreed upon. Click here for more information.
• Please do not contact us for unsolicited services