PhD in photonic integrated circuits for quantum technology

Job description

The Dutch-German InSynQ project aims to make integrated photonics ready for applications in quantum sensing and metrology. We will do this with a focus on indium phosphide (InP) based monolithic technology, operating around 1550 nm, i.e., the telecom wavelengths. The goal is to invent and develop novel low-noise and ultra-stable tunable lasers and very sensitive photodetectors. These will be integrated onto a photonic integrated circuit (PIC), so the quantum sensing systems can be miniaturized. Together with our German industry partner Menlo Systems, we will then make the technology ready to go into compact quantum clocks. Quantum everywhere, with PICs inside!

As a PhD student in our group, you will be responsible for realizing such novel PICs, with a focus on advanced wavelength-tunable lasers and balanced photodiodes. The work includes the design of novel lasers, typically making use of a mature (external) foundry platform, such as offered by our JePPIX partners (https://www.jeppix.eu/). You will also be working in our cleanroom to design and fabricate extremely sensitive photodiodes, beyond the current capabilities of commercial foundries. Our NanoLabTUe cleanroom is a globally-leading facility for III-V fabrication (e.g., http://dx.doi.org/10.1088/0268-1242/29/8/083001, https://www.tue.nl/en/research/research-groups/nanolabtue/nanolabtue). These chips will finally be tested in our optical characterization labs.

The work in our group will be highly collaborative and complementary to the work done by our Partner in this project, Menlo Systems. The work at TU/e will focus on the PIC design and technology development. Since Eindhoven is located in the heart of the leading semiconductor and photonics ecosystem “Brainport” (https://brainporteindhoven.com/en/), close collaboration with a wider range of academic and industrial partners can also be anticipated.

As a PhD student, you will be part of a dynamic and ambitious environment, with plenty of opportunities to develop yourself. Our Future Chips Flagship (https://www.tue.nl/en/research/research-areas/future-chips) at TU/e consists of many closely-cooperating research groups, focusing on integrated photonics, semiconductor technology and quantum technology. You will be part of the Photonic Integration group (PhI) at Electrical Engineering, which has about 70 members, 25 of which are PhD students. Our laboratory facilities are extensive and state of the art.

Job requirements

• Master’s degree in Physics, Electrical Engineering, or similar;
• Affinity with photonic devices and circuits;
• Strong background in optics, photonics, quantum and/or semiconductor devices, where experience with modelling and design is of an advantage;
• Expertise in cleanroom fabrication techniques, ideally with III-V semiconductors, is considered an advantage;
• Experience in experimental work, ideally in an optical, photonics and/or laser lab;
• Ability to work with experts from a broad range of scientific and technology backgrounds;
• Fluent spoken and written English (C1 level).

Conditions of employment

A meaningful job in a dynamic and ambitious university, in an interdisciplinary setting and within an international network. You will work on a beautiful, green campus within walking distance of the central train station. In addition, we offer you:

• Full-time employment for four years, with an intermediate evaluation (go/no-go) after nine months. You will spend 10% of your employment on teaching tasks.
• Salary and benefits (such as a pension scheme, paid pregnancy and maternity leave, partially paid parental leave) in accordance with the Collective Labour Agreement for Dutch Universities, scale P (min. €2,901 max. €3,707).
• A year-end bonus of 8.3% and annual vacation pay of 8%.
• High-quality training programs and other support to grow into a self-aware, autonomous scientific researcher. At TU/e we challenge you to take charge of your own learning process.
• An excellent technical infrastructure, on-campus children's day care and sports facilities.
• An allowance for commuting, working from home and internet costs.

A Staff Immigration Team and a tax compensation scheme (the 30% facility) for international candidates. 

Information and application

About us

Eindhoven University of Technology is an internationally top-ranking university in the Netherlands that combines scientific curiosity with a hands-on attitude. Our spirit of collaboration translates into an open culture and a top-five position in collaborating with advanced industries. Fundamental knowledge enables us to design solutions for the highly complex problems of today and tomorrow. 

Curious to hear more about what it’s like as a PhD candidate at TU/e? Please view the video.

Information

Do you recognize yourself in this profile and would you like to know more?
Please contact the hiring manager prof.dr.ir. Martijn Heck, Full Professor, m.heck@tue.nl, https://www.linkedin.com/in/martijnheck/.

Visit our website for more information about the application process or the conditions of employment. You can also contact HRServices.flux@tue.nl

Are you inspired and would like to know more about working at TU/e? Please visit our career page.

Application

We invite you to submit a complete application by using the apply button. The application should include a:

• Cover letter in which you describe your motivation and qualifications for the position.
• Curriculum vitae, including a list of your publications and the contact information of three references.

We look forward to receiving your application and will screen it as soon as possible. The vacancy will remain open until the position is filled.