Senior Researcher (Q-ASeNS) M/W/X

Funded under the Cyber Funded Research programme, the project adopts a phased, rigorous approach running from January 2027 to December 2030. Over the initial two-year period, it will establish a comprehensive technology landscape of quantum sensing across all major modalities (electromagnetic, gravitational, inertial, timing, and hybrid): analysing the state of the art, monitoring global innovation trajectories, mapping technology supply chains, assessing ruggedisation prospects, and characterising the likely evolution of each sensor class towards the 2030 horizon. Building upon this foundation and a formal evaluation and benchmarking framework, the project will then transition toward down-selection: identifying the candidate quantum sensors that could realistically be tested between 2030 and 2032 and that will form the basis for later prototyping, demonstration, and field trials. All findings will be consolidated into a strategic research and development roadmap (2030-2040) guiding infrastructure investments, skills development, and partnerships, and positioning the Royal Military Academy as a national competence centre for quantum sensing. MAIN TASKS: Establishment and yearly update of a structured technology survey of quantum-sensor platforms (NV centres in diamond, Rydberg atoms, atom interferometers, trapped ions, atomic clocks, superconducting circuits), including TRL and maturity assessment and a mapping of the global research and industrial ecosystem. Mapping of classical sensor technologies to contextualise potential quantum advantages. Identification and prioritisation of defence-relevant use cases through capability-gap analysis, cross-domain applicability studies, and workshops with engineering, physics, and defence-research experts. Definition of evaluation criteria and benchmarking frameworks combining scientific performance metrics (sensitivity, stability, bandwidth, dynamic range, coherence time), engineering integration factors (SWaP-C, environmental robustness, system complexity), and manufacturability and lifecycle considerations. Feasibility studies and maturation pathways: identification of technological bottlenecks, modelling and simulation of sensor performance in relevant conditions, and estimation of development timelines. Down-selection of candidate quantum sensors for prototyping and demonstration in the 2030-2032 window, validated through workshops with domain experts. Development of a strategic research and development roadmap (2030-2040) addressing infrastructure, skills and training, and partnership opportunities. Project management and coordination: planning, progress monitoring, annual reporting, and review meetings. Participation in NATO and EDA working groups on quantum sensors. Attending and presenting at international conferences Writing scientific papers and project deliverables (technology survey reports, use case catalogue, evaluation framework, down-selection report, strategic roadmap). Profil SKILLS AND

CONTEXT In the framework of the study Q-ASeNS (Quantum Assessment for next-Generation Sensors), we are looking for a full-time senior researcher in quantum sensing technologies with a PhD degree in Physics, Engineering Science, Applied Sciences, or a closely related field. The Royal Military Academy (RMA) is a military institution and is fully recognized as a university, fulfilling the same criteria as civilian universities. The RMA is also conducting scientific research at university level for projects funded by the Belgian Defense department or external sources. We value diversity and equal opportunities. We firmly believe that diversity enriches our community, and we encourage all qualified candidates to apply. PROJECT: You will work within the SMAC Unit (Simulation, Modelling, and Analysis of Complex Systems) of the department of Mathematics of the RMA and in close collaboration with the department of Physics of the RMA, Belgian Defence stakeholders (ACOS IS / Cyber Command, ACOS T