Photonic metamaterials have fascinating properties for light, with many applications from communication and imaging to photovoltaics and topological physics. They are however notoriously difficult to design, owing to the large parameter space and multidimensional design targets. We want to investigate how artificial intelligence could predict the properties of metamaterials that include two-dimensional metasurfaces and photonic crystals, how it could help us understand the inner workings of these systems, and how it could be used to design metamaterial devices with targeted functionality. Specifically, we study the incorporation of rigorous self-consistent physical models into the machine learning method to achieve those goals.
The Photonic Forces group at AMOLF, led by prof. Ewold Verhagen, seeks a motivated and talented postdoc to undertake this project. The project lies at the interface of electromagnetic modelling and theory and deep learning methods. You will develop methods and test them towards the inverse design of state-of-art photonic systems, in collaboration with international academic and industrial partners. You will be involved in all aspects of development, design, and dissemination of the results.

We seek an excellent candidate with a background in physics and relevant experience with machine learning methods. Affinity with electromagnetic theory and/or photonic design is a plus. You need to meet the requirements for a doctors-degree and must have research experience in a non-Dutch academic environment. The successful candidate has a collaborative spirit, and will liaise with collaborators. We strongly believe in the benefits of an inclusive and diverse environment, and encourage people from all backgrounds to apply.

The position is intended as full-time (40 hours / week, 12 months / year) appointment in the service of the Netherlands Foundation of Scientific Research Institutes (NWO-I) for the duration of 1 year, with a salary in scale 10 (CAO-OI) and a range of employment benefits. AMOLF assists any new foreign Postdoc with housing and visa applications and compensates their transport costs and furnishing expenses.

Photonic Forces

The Photonic Forces team led by prof. Ewold Verhagen studies light-matter interactions at the nanoscale, in devices ranging from photonic crystals and metamaterials to high-quality optical resonators. We investigate the fundamental physics associated with such interactions, which are enhanced through optical field confinement in tailored nanophotonic systems, as well as the applications they allow. Specific topics of interest include topological photonics, non-Hermitian dynamics, and quantum measurement in nano-optomechanical systems. The group combines theory and experiment, including design and nanofabrication. The group is part of the Center for Nanophotonics, where multiple groups collaborate on the study and application of light confined to the nanoscale. Within the group as well as among the different groups at AMOLF, we have a strong focus on stimulating development of junior researchers in all professional aspects, as well as collaborations with other researchers at AMOLF and beyond. For more information, see www.optomechanics.nl.