PostDoc in Multilayer Meta-Optics for High-Performance Optical Systems

What can multilayer metasurfaces do that a single layer cannot

Emerging applications in semiconductor metrology advanced microscopy and sensing demand greater bandwidth efficiency and control over this Postdoc project you will push meta-optics beyond the limits of a single layer through computational design nanofabrication and optical experiments.

Modern optical systems need to do many things well at once: operate across broad bandwidths maintain high efficiency precisely control the wavefront and remain compact. Meeting these demands simultaneously is a key challenge in semiconductor metrology advanced microscopy spectroscopy and sensing.

Meta-optics offer powerful control over the amplitude phase and polarization of light at the nanoscale. Yet most metasurfaces still rely on a single nanostructured layer which constrains the degrees of freedom available for optical design and imposes trade-offs between bandwidth efficiency and functionality as explained in our recent this Postdoc project you will explore multilayer and hybrid meta-optics as routes beyond these constraints. By stacking nanostructured layers and combining meta-optics with refractive elements we aim to expand the available design space and realize broadband optical functionality beyond conventional single-layer architectures.

Your research will cover the full cycle from design to experiment. You will:

• Design and model multilayer and hybrid meta-optics using full-wave simulations computational optimization and inverse design including the co-design of metasurfaces with conventional refractive optics using tools such as Zemax.
• Develop and fabricate multilayer devices using electron-beam lithography thin-film deposition and reactive-ion etching tackling challenges in nanoscale overlay alignment stacking and process reproducibility.
• Build optical experiments for broadband characterization fiber-optic alignment and coupling between free-space fiber and integrated photonic systems.
• Close the loop between simulation and experiment using measurements to refine designs and improve device performance.

You will also have the freedom to explore alternative fabrication approaches including nanoimprint lithography and two-photon polymerization (2PP) toward complex large-area and scalable meta-optics.

The position is part of Heliopyxis a collaboration between TU/e the University of Twente and industrial partners including ASML SCIL Nanoimprint Solutions and ALUVIA Photonics. The project targets broadband light manipulation and free-space-to-chip integration with semiconductor metrology as an important driving application.

You will work within the Photonics and Semiconductor Nanophysics (PSN) group at TU/e with access to advanced nanofabrication and optical characterization facilities. You will join a group of more than 40 researchers and collaborate closely with PhD and Masters researchers and academic and industrial partners. As a postdoctoral researcher you will also have considerable freedom to shape the scientific direction of the project. Besides research you will contribute to education and mentor BSc and MSc students during their research projects.

We are looking for a researcher who enjoys moving between electromagnetic design nanofabrication and optical experiments to turn new photonic concepts into working devices.

• A PhD in Applied Physics Electrical Engineering Photonics Nanotechnology or a related field with a background in nanophotonics meta-optics or integrated photonics.
• Hands-on experience with nanofabrication of photonic devices particularly electron-beam lithography thin-film deposition reactive-ion etching multilayer processing overlay or stacking.
• Experience with nanoimprint lithography or two-photon polymerization (2PP) is an advantage.
• Strong experimental skills in optical characterization and alignment. Experience with fiber-optic alignment and coupling to photonic devices is highly valued.
• Experience with electromagnetic modeling and simulation (e.g. Lumerical COMSOL Tidy3D or equivalent). Experience with optimization or inverse design is appreciated.
• A background in theoretical or experimental quantum optics or nonlinear optics is a plus.
• A team player who enjoys coaching PhD and MSc students and working in a dynamic interdisciplinary team.
• A proven ability to manage complex projects to completion on schedule.
• Excellent (written and verbal) proficiency in English good communication and leadership skills.

You do not need expertise in all these areas; we value a strong foundation and the ambition to expand your skills during the project.

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 campusat the heart of one of Europes largest tech hubs.

In addition we offer you:

• Full-time employment for 1 year with the possibility of extension.
• Salary in accordance with the Collective Labour Agreement for Dutch Universities scale 10 ranging from 4422 (step 4) to 5760 gross base salary per month (full-time).
• In addition to your base salary you will receive an 8% holiday allowance and an 8.3% year-end bonus both calculated based on your annual gross base salary.
• As a TU/e employee you participate in the ABP pension scheme providing retirement pension and pension benefits for surviving dependents and occupational disability. TU/e pays 70% of the pension premium while employees contribute the remaining 30%.
• High-quality training programs on general skills didactics and topics related to research and valorization.
• An excellent technical infrastructure and on-campus childrens day care.
• Unlimited access to the modern oncampus TU/e Student Sports Center at an exceptionally affordable rate.
• We support your wellbeing with free 24/7 access to OpenUp providing you and your family with mental health support expert guidance and online training.
• Partially paid parental leave and an allowance for commuting working from home and internet costs.
• A TU/e Postdoc Association that helps you to build a stronger and broader academic and personal network and offers tailored support training and workshops.
• A Staff Immigration Team is available for international candidates as are a tax compensation scheme (the Expat Scheme) and a compensation for moving expenses.

On our website you can discover even more information about our conditions of employment. Build on your career at TU/e!

We are a leading international university where scientific curiosity meets a hands-on mindset. We work in an open and collaborative way with high-tech industries to tackle complex societal challenges. Our responsible and respectful approach ensures impact today and in the future. TU/e is home to over 13000 students and more than 7000 staff forming a diverse and vibrant academic community.

Our university is located in Brainport Eindhoven a worldleading tech region with more than 7000 hightech companies and strong R&D activity. Known for breakthroughs in AI photonics semiconductors and advanced manufacturing Brainport is a place where technology serves people and society. Learn more about the Brainport region here.

The Department of Applied Physics and Science Education is a research-driven department housing high-quality educational programs all featuring strong connections between research and education. Our research is clustered in three focal areas: Fluids Bio and Soft Matter (FBSM); Plasmas and Beams (PB); and Nano Quantum and Photonics (NQP). Our shared ambition is to equip the next generation of engineers of the future with the knowledge and the skills they will need to impact science innovation and society from regional to global scales.

Do you recognize yourself in this profile and would you like to know more Please contact lab PI dr. Ahmed H. Dorrah .

Visit our website for more information about the application process. You can also contact.

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

We invite you to submit a complete application using the apply-button. The application should include a:

• Cover letter highlighting your motivation research goals and qualifications for the position.
• Curriculum vitae including a list of your publications and contact information of 2-3 references. References will be contacted at the interview stage.
• A copy of 1-2 publications that best represent your research or a 1-page summary of your PhD thesis.

Ensure that you submit all the requested application documents. Please note that incomplete applications may not be considered and could be rejected.

We look forward to receiving your application and will screen it as soon as possible. The vacancy will remain open until the position is filled.

• You can apply online. We will not process applications sent by email and/or post.
• A pre-employment screening (e.g. knowledge security check) can be part of the selection procedure. For more information on the knowledge security check please consult the National Knowledge Security Guidelines.
• Please do not contact us for unsolicited services.