The PhD student will develop novel optical imaging technology for rapid 3D imaging of integrated circuit nanostructures. The Ph.D. student will use techniques such as optical coherence tomography and computed tomography and investigate the use of all properties of light (amplitude, wavelength, phase, and polarization) in these imaging modalities to obtain the desired imaging performance. 

The goal is to retrieve 3D information of the structure and shape of IC nanostructures and detect with high sensitivity possible defects or deviations from the ideal geometry. The research will focus on ultra-high throughput imaging and therefore needs to be based on techniques such as compressed sensing to obtain the required imaging speed. 

Real-time quality control has to be obtained using dedicated computer processors (e.g. GPUs) for rapid data processing, data analysis, and defect detection. This project take place in a larger consortium working on advanced optical imaging and detection using compressive sensing.

The candidate should have an MSc degree in Physics, Electrical Engineering, or the equivalent. The research comprises both experimental work and theoretical modelling (roughly 50%-50%). The PhD position is at the university, but it is expected from the candidate will also strongly interact with the Dutch company that is potential user of the research results. Good knowledge of English is required.

Fixed-term contract: 4 years.

TU Delft offers a customisable compensation package, a discount for health insurance and sport memberships, and a monthly work costs contribution. Flexible work schedules can be arranged. An International Children’s Centre offers childcare and an international primary school. Dual Career Services offers support to accompanying partners. Salary and benefits are in accordance with the Collective Labour Agreement for Dutch Universities. 

As a PhD candidate you will be enrolled in the TU Delft Graduate School. TU Delft Graduate School provides an inspiring research environment; an excellent team of supervisors, academic staff and a mentor; and a Doctoral Education Programme aimed at developing your transferable, discipline-related and research skills. Please visit www.tudelft.nl/phd for more information.   

Technische Universiteit Delft

Delft University of Technology (TU Delft) is a multifaceted institution offering education and carrying out research in the technical sciences at an internationally recognised level. Education, research and design are strongly oriented towards applicability. TU Delft develops technologies for future generations, focusing on sustainability, safety and economic vitality. At TU Delft you will work in an environment where technical sciences and society converge. TU Delft comprises eight faculties, unique laboratories, research institutes and schools.

Faculty Applied Sciences

The Faculty of Applied Sciences is the largest faculty of TU Delft, with around 550 scientists, a support staff of 250 and 1,800 students. The faculty conducts fundamental, application-oriented research and offers scientific education at the bachelor, master and doctoral levels. The faculty is active in the fields of Life and Health Science & Technology, Nanoscience, Chemical Engineering, Radiation Science & Technology, and Applied Physics.

The position is in the Department of Imaging Physics of the Faculty of Applied Sciences. This department performs cutting-edge research spanning the range from understanding the basic principles underlying imaging technology to automated image analysis.    
  
The PhD student will work under the guidance of Prof. dr. Paul Urbach and Dr. Jeroen Kalkman. Paul Urbach leads the internationally renowned Optics research group and is a leader in the field of advanced optical imaging. Jeroen Kalkman is leading a prominent international research group in the field of optical tomography.