The European EIC Pathfinder QuGANTIC project aims to realize a photonic quantum computer, based on so-called QuDits. To realize such photonic quantum computers, novel photonic integrated circuit (PIC) technologies need to be realized. Most notably, there is a need for integrating ultralow-loss passive components, such as delay lines and multiplexers, with high-bandwidth modulators and low-noise lasers. A heterogeneous PIC platform, integrating III-V based actives (such as indium phosphide) on silicon nitride passives would be an interesting candidate for such a photonic quantum processor.

As a PhD student in our group, you will be responsible for realizing such a novel PIC platform, with an unprecedented combination of high-bandwidth and low-loss performance. Such a technology is the missing link in the photonic quantum technology toolbox, and will have a wide range of applications, in quantum computing and communication, but also in other fields, like microwave photonics and optical communications. The work includes the design of novel modulators, new pulsed laser sources, and the development of the heterogeneous process to realize all on a single PIC. The latter will be done in our NanoLabTUe cleanroom, a globally-leading facility for III-V fabrication (e.g., http://dx.doi.org/10.1088/0268-1242/29/8/083001).

The work in our group will be highly collaborative and complementary to the work done by our Partners in this project. These include SMEs QuiX (the Netherlands) and Kvantify (Denmark), Leibniz University Hannover (Germany) and Aarhus University (Denmark). The work at TU/e will focus on the 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.

The team
As a PhD student, you will be part of a dynamic and ambitious environment, with plenty of opportunities to develop yourself. Our Eindhoven Hendrik Casimir Institute 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 55 members, 20 of which are PhD students. Our laboratory facilities are extensive and state of the art.

• Master's degree in Physics, Electrical Engineering, or similar;
• Affinity for photonic devices and circuits;
• Strong background in optics, photonics 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.

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.
• 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.

Starting date could be as soon as March 1, 2023, or anytime soon thereafter.