The NWO-funded research program “Optical coherence; optimal delivery and positioning (acronym: OPTIC)” addresses optical challenges to enable high-tech optical devices that are energy efficient and secure, and improve food and water quality and quantity, with the aim of rendering the worldwide urbanization sustainable. Currently, high-tech industry is developing myriad novel devices that combine light scattering with free-formed optics, such as LED lighting, miniature satellites for environmental and climate monitoring, metrology equipment for semiconductor chip-industry and secure bankcards. Due to insufficient fundamental know-how of the combined technologies, devices are being designed by educated guesses, which limits progress and applications. The OPTIC program will unite traditionally distinct technologies with a hierarchy of length scales ranging from microscopic (nanometer) to macroscopic (centimeter) scales. We develop novel insights and new architectures for free-form scattering optics to foster breakthroughs in the application areas mentioned above. The OPTIC program taps directly into the strengths of high-tech industry, enhances the knowledge infrastructure, develops new networks of expertise, and educates a new generation of highly skilled professionals. See also the introductory movie

Your research will be hosted by the world-leading Complex Photonic Systems (COPS) chair in the MESA+ Institute for Nanotechnology, part of the Faculty of Science and Technology. The supervisory team includes Profs. Willem Vos, Melissa Goodwin (also at NanoLab-NL), Bill Barnes (also at Exeter), and Ad Lagendijk. For our infrastructure and past performance, please visit

• We are looking for candidates trained in physics or (electrical) engineering.
• Expertise in optics is advisable, and know-how of light scattering is a bonus.
• The candidates will contribute excellent experimental skills to the team that will be complemented with strong theory skills.
• We expect candidates to be proficient in English and to have good professional communication and team working skills, and to enjoy interdisciplinary collaborations with scientists from high-tech industry.

• An excellent and dynamic environment for researchers within our extraordinary research institute MESA+.
• An attractive campus and lots of facilities for sports and leisure.
• An appointment for 4 years as a PhD researcher.
• Terms of employment in accordance with the Dutch Collective Labour Agreement for Universities (CAO).
• A salary ranging from € 2.770,- gross per month in the first year to € 3.539,- gross per month in the 4th and final year of your PhD appointment.
• A holiday allowance of 8% of the gross annual salary and a year-end bonus of 8.3%.
• Pension as part of the famous solid Dutch scheme (ABP).