We are looking for a PhD-candidate to strengthen our highly motivated and multidisciplinary research team, who will work on laser-assisted techniques to manipulate optical elements on a microscopic scale, helping in the assembly of photonic chips, in the framework of a large Dutch project, titled ‘Groeifonds NXTGEN HIGHTECH’. This latter project is targeting groundbreaking developments in next generation high-tech equipment, to support growth and development of important Dutch high-tech sectors. Within the projects, knowledge institutes cooperate with relevant industry on novel solutions for societal challenges.

The Background
Coupling light from optical fibres to integrated waveguides, as well as coupling light from optical chip to optical chip, is a challenge in the mass-production of photonic integrated circuitry. In the project, laser-assisted methods are developed to assist techniques that facilitate fibre-to-chip and chip-to-chip communication.

For an example of our work in the field of laser-assisted manipulation, please refer to: Folkersma, G. , Römer, G. R. B. E. , Brouwer, D. M. , & Herder, J. L. (2016). High precision optical fiber alignment using tube laser bending. International journal of advanced manufacturing technology, 86(1), 953-961.High Precision

Your Challenge
Photonic chips are essential for modern telecommunication, sensing or computing, and integration of those systems is a key factor in making these systems more affordable and portable. While the fabrication of photonic integrated chips advances rapidly, the interface between these chips and fibre optics or free-space optic is still limiting the cost and efficiency of these systems. We expect that laser-based methods can greatly increase speed and reliability of assembly of these photonic systems. Laser-based manipulation can help in trimming components to be accurately aligned with sub-micron precision. In this project, we are looking at the interaction between the ultrashort laser pulses and the materials of the photonic materials used in order to manipulate coupling elements such as micro-mirrors to achieve these optical connections.

You will work with pulsed laser systems to manipulate optical elements on a microscopic scale, helping in assembly of photonic chips. The interaction of laser light and optical materials will be studied and the gained knowledge is used to suggest specific processes that can be used in the production of new generation photonic circuits. For this project, you will work in the labs of the Chair of Laser Processing on a ultrashort pulsed laser system for manipulation of photonic materials. You will perform optical measurements and analyze the modified material with the help of microscopic and other methods.

You will closely collaborate with researchers in other groups at the University of Twente and the industrial partners in the project. You will also have access to the renowned research facilities of the University of Twente.

If you are someone with a strong background in laser-material processing, preferably in ultra-short pulsed laser-material processing, driven by curiosity, creativity, and dedication, we invite you to apply for this opportunity.

• You have a Master’s degree, preferably with distinction (or international equivalent) in Mechanical Engineering, Electrical Engineering, Applied Physics, Photonics, Materials Engineering, or a closely related discipline
• Good knowledge/demonstrated awareness of fundamental aspects of laser-material processing. Applied knowledge in laser micromachining are an advantage
• Experience in using a range of technologies/techniques for surface characterisation, e.g. SEM, EDX, AFM, etc., would be an advantage
• Ability to work in a laboratory environment and undertake experimental research.
• Good knowledge/demonstrated awareness of (numerical) modelling
• Excellent analysis skills and an analytical mind-set, as well as excellent communication skills, including written
• English language proficiency. If you have not graduated in a country where English is the first language, then you will need to demonstrate your English proficiency by having passed IELTS or TOEFL. The minimum overall score for IELTS is at least 6.5 with no component being below 5.5
• We encourage a high degree of responsibility and independence, while collaborating with close colleagues, researchers and other staff
• Starting date of the position: as soon as possible

Applications from suitably qualified female applicants are particularly welcome.

• We offer a four-year fulltime PhD position.
• We provide a stimulating, modern research environment with world-class research facilities. And we provide excellent mentorship and a stimulating research environment to accelerate your further professional and personal growth.
• A starting salary of € 2.770,- gross per month in the first year and increasing to € 3.539,- gross per month in the fourth year.
• An annual holiday allowance of 8% of the gross annual salary, and an annual year-end bonus of 8.3%.
• A solid pension scheme.
• Minimum of 40 leave days per annual year in case of full-time employment.
• You will have a training programme as part of the Twente Graduate School where you and your supervisors will determine a plan for a suitable education and supervision.

The University of Twente is situated on a green and lively campus with many facilities for sports and other activities.

The Chair of Laser Processing

At the Chair of Laser Processing we study the fundamental physical phenomena occurring during laser-material interaction, in order to optimize laser-material processing for laser-based manufacturing. Based on the knowledge gained, we develop means and methods for monitoring/sensing and control of laser-material processing. Our research results (projects and publications) provide key enabling technologies for numerous new applications and innovative laser-based manufacturing. We are a group consisting of curiosity driven senior and junior scientists, which are well embedded within the department of Mechanics of Solids, Surfaces & Systems (MS3). Additional information can be obtained from the website:Chair of Laser Processing