Job - PhD position, novel EUV/XUV multilayer mirrors

The Laser Physics and Nonlinear Optics group is looking for a highly motivated student to carry out an exciting new research program. In this research program, which is part of the Dutch NNI Program, we will investigate novel types of optical components for the EUV/XUV soft x-ray range. The work involves the design, fabrication and testing of advanced multi (nano) layer reflective optics and combine these with lateral nano structuring to realize three-dimension photonic structures, such as Bragg-Fresnel optics, which is of high relevance, e.g., for advanced x-ray fluorescence analysis, EUV lithography or soft-x-ray free-electron lasers.

The candidate will be involved in every step of the research, including the design and development of the nano-optical structures to be fabricated largely within the MESA+ facilities of the newly established Nanolab. This includes also modeling, to optimize design, promote understanding and investigate further, novel options. The prospective candidate will be embedded in an enthusiastic academic environment with world-class fabrication and testing capabilities. In addition, the candidate will work closely with a leading industrial partner and closely interact with several academic research groups of the Applied Nanophotonics research orientation of MESA+.

You will design and assist in the fabrication of the 3DX structures, which includes modeling, cleanroom fabrication techniques, and the characterization of the optical properties using, e.g., synchrotron radiation. You will collaborate closely with our industrial partner to create structures of high application relevance.

The ideal candidate has a MSc. in physics, has experience with optics, in particular nanooptics or photonic crystals and also with surface and material science. Although this is an experimental project, some experience with computer modeling would be an advantage. The candidate should be goal-oriented and ready to take responsibility for the project. He/She is expected to be able to formulate relevant scientific questions and to undertake appropriate research actions towards the realization of demonstration devices. The chosen candidate will be an enthusiastic person with good communicative skills, especially in written and spoken English. He or she must be open-minded and flexible in order to thrive in a cultural rich environment and capable of working independently as well as in a team.

For more information please contact dr. Peter van der Slot (+31-53-4893967) or prof. dr. Klaus Boller (+31-53-4893964). Applications should include an application/motivation letter, a detailed CV (resume), a publication list, contact details of at least 2 referees, and an academic transcript of their B.Sc. and M.Sc. education. A TOEFL or IELTS score is generally requested to verify sufficient mastery of the English language. Please send your application to www.utwente.nl/vacatures.

We offer you a PhD position for 4 years with standard conditions. Your starting salary will be about € 2042, - gross per month in the first year and up to about € 2612, - gross per month in the last year. In addition, the collaborative nature of this project will provide the candidate with ample opportunity to interact with many leading scientists working in a wide variety of fields. For offering a professional scientific and academic education the position includes membership in the Twente Graduate School for Advanced Optics.

The University of Twente. We stand for life sciences and technology. High tech and human touch. Education and research that matter. New technology which drives change, innovation and progress in society. The University of Twente is the only campus university in the Netherlands; divided over six faculties we provide more than fifty educational programmes. The University of Twente has a strong focus on personal development and talented researchers are given scope for carrying out pioneering research.

Within the TNW Faculty (Faculty of Science & Technology) of the University of Twente some 700 staff members and more than 1100 students are involved in training and research on the interface of chemical technology, applied physics and biomedical technology. Fields of application include sustainable energy, process technology and materials science, nanotechnology and technical medicine. Research, which enjoys a high profile both at home and internationally, has been accommodated in the multidisciplinary research institutes IMPACT, MESA+ and MIRA. The faculty works together intensively with industrial partners and researchers in the Netherlands and abroad and conducts extensive research for external commissioning parties and funders.