PhD in cryogenic silicon-photonics-based optical interconnects for quantum computer

Quantum computers require a large bandwidth of classical data to control and read out the qubits. Since such computers are often placed in a cryostat, copper cables are increasingly unfeasible. We know datacenters work with optical interconnects, based on integrated photonics. Can we also use these as cryogenic transceivers? Explore with our partner NXP how we can realize silicon-photonics based transceivers in their semiconductor processes.

Information
As a PhD student in our group, you will be responsible for developing silicon-photonic based optical transceivers that can work at cryogenic temperatures of about 4 K. We will work closely with our partner NXP on their ion-based quantum computer. Our approach will be to design the transceiver in one of NXP’s mature processes, currently being used for single-photon avalanche photodiodes (SPADs) and electronics. Using a zero-change approach, we will design novel high-speed photodetectors, waveguides and modulators into this platform, adding to their process design kit (PDK).

In practice this means that you will be working closely with the integrated photonics experts in our group and with the electronics and process experts of NXP. You will explore how we can best realize photonic components into this NXP fabrication process. This means you will effectively have to establish a new technology platform. Are you up to that task? You will need to develop in-depth knowledge on integrated photonics, gain familiarity with the mature silicon processes and design tools, and, above all, leverage your creativity to design all this.

So, where is the scientific challenge in all this? Well, first of all, we need to establish the best type of transceiver for the application. What architecture will work best? Secondly, novel components, most notably high-speed photodetectors and modulators, need to be developed. And finally, a bit of semiconductor physics: will this all still work at 4 K? You will work on simulations with commercial and in-house tools, design in a mature PDK, and test and characterize the final chips in our well-equipped lab.

As a PhD student, you will be part of a dynamic and ambitious environment, with plenty of opportunities to develop yourself. Our newly established Casimir Institute - Eindhoven University of Technology (TU/e) consists of many closely-cooperating research groups, focusing on integrated photonics, semiconductor technology and quantum technology. You will be part of the Photonic Integration group (PhI) at Electrical Engineering, which has about 70 members, 25 of which are PhD students. Our laboratory facilities are extensive and state of the art. Our city Eindhoven is located in the heart of the leading semiconductor and photonics ecosystem “Brainport”, close collaboration with a wider range of academic and industrial partners can also be anticipated.

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.
• 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 prof.dr.ir. Martijn Heck, Full Professor, m.heck@tue.nl, https://www.linkedin.com/in/martijnheck/.

Visit our website for more information about the application process or the conditions of employment. You can also contact Kevin Caris, HR-Advisor, k.t.caris@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.