PhD in Meta-Optics for Quantum Photonics and Computational Imaging

How far can we push control over light at the nanoscale?
In this PhD project you will design next-generation metasurfaces that efficiently manipulate quantum states of light and enable compact and precise computational imaging systems.

Information
Controlling the interaction between light and matter is central to modern photonics and to technologies such as quantum computing, optical communications, imaging, and sensing. A key challenge is to engineer optical components that can precisely shape the spatial and temporal properties of light with high efficiency, speed, and resolution.

Recent advances in platforms such as metasurfaces, metamaterials, digital holography, 2D materials, and nanophotonics have opened new opportunities for wavefront control, yet fundamental limitations and trade-offs remain.

In this PhD project, you will investigate the fundamental limits of wavefront shaping systems and develop new meta-optical concepts to overcome them. The project will combine electromagnetic modeling, nanofabrication, and optical characterization to realize multi-layer metasurface platforms. The resulting devices will be integrated into photonic systems targeting applications in quantum information processing, computational imaging, free-space communications, and machine vision.

The project will leverage TU/e’s nanofabrication cleanroom and advanced optical characterization facilities. Possible research directions include:

1. Multi-layer nano-optics for efficient quantum state manipulation and detection.
2. Tailoring the spatial and temporal coherence of optical beams for remote sensing.
3. Light transport through scattering and disordered media with active meta-optics.
4. Metasurface integration on-chip for neuromorphic computing.

You will also become a member of the Photonics and Semiconductor Nanophysics (PSN) group which consists of ~45 researchers (PhD students, postdocs and staff). The group covers a wide range of topics including the investigation of optical processes in resonant nanostructures, the exploration of novel nanophotonic structures for applications in sensing, optical communications and lab on chip, and the physics of light transport in complex and disordered media. The group also plays a key role in the Casimir Institute and the Institute for Complex Molecular Systems at TU/e, and within the PhotonDelta growth fund program. Besides research you will also contribute to education within our group and the Department of Applied Physics and mentor BSc and MSc students during their research projects.

A master’s degree (or an equivalent university degree) in (applied) physics, electrical engineering, material science or related subjects. Solid background in electromagnetics, optics and photonics. Knowledge of programming languages such as Python, MATLAB or electromagnetics modeling packages such as COMSOL, Lumerical, and Tidy3D. Understanding of nanofabrication protocols such as nanolithography, atomic layer deposition, and etching. Prior experience with setting and aligning optical components and lasers is an asset. A background in quantum optics is a plus. Ability to work independently and in a larger team. Fluent spoken and written English (C1 Level).

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 assessment after nine months. You will spend a minimum of 10% of your four-year employment on teaching tasks, with a maximum of 15% per year of your employment.
• 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, scale P (min. € 3,059 - max. € 3,881).
• 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.
• Unlimited access to the modern on‑campus TU/e Student Sports Center at an exceptionally affordable rate, for you and, if applicable, your partner.
• 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.

Do you recognize yourself in this profile and would you like to know more? Please contact the hiring manager Ahmed H. Dorrah, a.h.dorrah@tue.nl.

Visit our website for more information about the application process or the conditions of employment. You can also contact hrservices.apse@tue.nl.

Curious to hear more about what it’s like as a PhD candidate at TU/e? Please view the video.

Are you inspired and would like to know more about working at TU/e? Please visit our career page.