Since the discovery of blue Light-Emitting Diodes (LEDs) and the development of white LEDs based on the conversion of blue light by luminescent phosphors (materials that absorb blue light and emit at shorter wavelengths), a dramatic technology shift toward energy-efficient illumination is taking place. Over the past years, the luminous efficacy, characterizing how well a LED emits white light and defined as the ratio of emitted luminous flux to the used power (units of lm/W, where lm stands for lumens and W for Watts), has been constantly increased to current record values of >200lm/W. This performance is however limited to low device temperatures and current densities, which has prevented a full exploitation of these sources for very high brightness applications.

The goal of this project is to push SSL into the development of high efficacy and ultra-high brightness LEDs by exploiting fundamental phenomena enabled by the resonant interaction of designed nanostructured surfaces (metasurfaces) with the light emitted by LEDs. The strength of this project is that, in close collaboration with Lumileds (a world leader manufacturer of LEDs), we will introduce metasurfaces in commercial LED architectures to directly translate the effects of resonant nanophotonics into technology improvements.

Project description
The selected candidate will perform applied research both theoretical and experimental on metasurfaces for high brightness LEDs. Optimum nanostructures and geometries will be designed using numerical methods and electromagnetic simulations. In collaboration with other scientist working in this project, the metasurfaces will be fabricated and characterized using available nanophotonic setups.

The project will be carried out at the Eindhoven University of Technology TU/e (The Netherlands) and at Lumileds Aachen (Germany), under the supervision of prof. dr. J. Gómez Rivas (TU/e) and dr. Toni López (Lumileds).

We welcome applications from candidates with a recent PhD degree in Physics. A background and previous experience in nanophotonic modelling and simulations is required. Candidates must also prove a strong attitude towards experimental work and the drive and capacity to tackle different aspects of a complex problem with large independence.  A strong affinity with applied and industrial research in the field of photonics, as well as an entrepreneurial attitude, are expected.

We offer a full-time appointment for an initial period of one year, potentially renewable, with a gross monthly salary from €3.255, depending on knowledge and experience, in line with the Collective Agreement for Dutch Universities and an attractive package of fringe benefits, including end-of-year allowance.