We are looking for excellent candidates for a PhD project on the topic of nonlinear integrated phononic-photonic signal processing in low-loss silicon nitride. The position is a part of the project Light and sound sound-based signal processing in silicon nitride, the NWO Vidi project of Dr. David Marpaung.

The project goal is to develop an advanced signal processing technology based on the exquisite light and hypersound interactions in a silicon nitride-based nanophotonic circuit.

The project will focus on the study, design, and realization of silicon nitride-based optical waveguides and that efficiently guide and interact light and acoustic waves and support efficient stimulated Brillouin scattering (SBS) process. These new class of waveguides will form the basis a programmable Brillouin signal processing circuit with applications ranging from advanced lasers and optical frequency combs, telecommunications to integrated quantum photonics.

In this project, the PhD candidate is expected to study, design, and characterize nonlinear optical devices with enhanced opto-acoustic interactions. They will perform radio frequency and optical experiments to utilize the realized devices for advanced signal processing.

The research will be performed in a close collaboration with industrial partners including LioniX International and Synopsys in Enschede and Smart Photonics in Eindhoven.

We are looking for two highly motivated PhD candidates with a background in photonics, physics, applied physics, optoelectronics, or closely related areas. In particular, involvement in one or more of the following topics is desired:

• Design, fabrication, or experimental characterization of integrated photonic devices
• Modeling or experiments of nonlinear optical phenomena in particular stimulated Brillouin scattering (SBS)
• Experimental work on microwave photonic and optical communication systems
• Modelling or experimental work on lasers and optical frequency combs
• Study of integrated optomechanical devices

Expertise in FEM-based simulation of photonic elements (for example COMSOL), design and optimization of optical circuit layouts (for example Lumerical, Phoenix Optodesigner) and fabrication of devices by means of relevant semiconductor process techniques will be highly advantageous. English language proficiency is strictly required. Curiosity and strong scientific communication skills are desired. A scientific presentation will be part of the interview process

• A PhD position for four years, full time with a probationary period of one year
• A starting salary of € 2.266,- in the first year and a salary of € 2.897,- in the fourth year gross per month
• Excellent mentorship, a stimulating research environment, and world-class research facilities
• Close collaboration with photonic industries in the Netherlands
• Various professional and personal development programs

Application procedure

• Applicants are encouraged to discuss the projects with Dr. David Marpaung, d.a.i.marpaung@utwente.nl prior to submitting applications.

Applications should include the following documents:

• a one-page motivation why you want to apply for this position and to join the group
• a detailed CV (resume) with a publication list
• an academic transcript of B.Sc. and M.Sc. education
• Details and contact of at least two academic referees
• A high TOEFL (> 90 or 100) or IELTS (> 6.5 or 7) score, generally requested

You can upload the above mentioned documents through the application button below.

The University of Twente. We stand for life sciences and technology. High tech and human touch. Education and research that matter. New technology which leads change, innovation and progress in society. The University of Twente is the only campus university of the Netherlands; divided over five faculties we provide more than fifty educational programmes. We have a strong focus on personal development and talented researchers are given scope for carrying out groundbreaking research.

We are an equal opportunity employer and value diversity at our company. We do not discriminate on the basis of race, religion, color, national origin, gender, sexual orientation, age, marital status or disability status. Because of our diversity values we do particularly support women to apply.

Within the TNW Faculty (Faculty of Science & Technology) of the University of Twente some 700 staff members and 2000 students are involved in training and research on the interface of chemical technology, applied physics and biomedical technology. Fields of application include sustainable energy, process technology and materials science, nanotechnology and technical medicine. Research, which enjoys a high profile both at home and internationally, has been accommodated in the multidisciplinary research institutes: Mesa+ Institute, TechMed Centra and Digital Society Institute. The faculty works together intensively with industrial partners and researchers in the Netherlands and abroad and conducts extensive research for external commissioning parties and funders.