PhD on terahertz Imaging transmitter based on photonic integrated circuits

Introduction

• Are you inspired by the challenge of pushing the limits of high-frequency imaging?
• Are you fascinated by the intersection of terahertz technology and cutting-edge photonic integration?
• Are you our next PhD-candidate in the field of advanced THz systems and integrated photonics?
• Are you eager to work on novel transmitter architectures for high-resolution terahertz imaging?
• Are you passionate about developing cutting-edge technology with real-world impact in healthcare, security, or materials analysis?

We are offering a fully-funded PhD position focused on the development of a compact, high-performance terahertz imaging transmitter leveraging the power of photonic integration. This position is part of the PhotonDelta program, aiming to drive innovation in the Dutch integrated photonics ecosystem.

The goal of this PhD project is to design, fabricate, and characterize a photonic integrated circuit (PIC)-based terahertz transmitter for advanced imaging applications. The complete system will include the THz transmitter, THz imaging setup, and THz detection modules. The core focus of your research will be the development of a fully packaged PIC-based THz transmitter module, optimized for high-resolution imaging performance. The result of the project will contribute to the roadmap and goals of the NGF fotonica in the area of integrated photonics for THz imaging and sensing.

Job Description

After years of research and technological advancements, THz imaging systems are transitioning from academic labs to real-world industrial applications. Combined with millimetre-wave technologies, THz imaging offers 3D imaging capabilities with high lateral and depth resolution ideal for applications in security, health diagnostics, materials inspection, and beyond.

However, realizing these capabilities requires reconfigurable, stable, and efficient THz sources capable of beam focusing and steering. Photonic based THz sources have the advantages of high-stability, broad tunability and capability to operate in room-temperature. It offers the unique opportunity to ensure a high modulation index and/or phase coding introduced from optical coherent network technologies.

Your PhD research will contribute to:

• Explore the integration of existing state-of-the-art THz generation techniques.
• Design, fabricate, and characterize high-performance PIC-based THz transmitters.
• Develop a fully packaged transmitter module for THz imaging
• Evaluate beam steering, focusing, and imaging resolution.
• Contribute to the NGF PhotonDelta program of the ECO group.
• Feed results into national efforts and reviews via the PhotonDelta evaluation framework

What's in it for you?

• You will learn and work on advanced PIC based THz technology.
• You will be able to join a large national consortium, thereby expanding your network.
• Excellent opportunities for personal development with amongst others personal coaching and training opportunities.
• Close collaboration with industry and academic partners.
• Your findings will directly contribute to enhancing (future) THz applications.
• Access to state-of-the-art THz labs
• Full PhD funding with salary and benefits. 

Job Requirements

• A master’s degree (or an equivalent degree) in electrical engineering, applied physics, or related areas.
• A multi-disciplinary research-oriented attitude.
• Interest in photonic integrated circuit (PIC) design, particularly for high-frequency applications.
• Motivation to contribute to solving the THz source challenge by developing transmitters that are compact, high-power, and stable.
• Ability to work both independently and in a multidisciplinary team
• Interested in collaborating with industrial partners.
• Strong analytical, experimental, and communication skills.
• Motivated to develop your teaching skills and coach students.
• Fluent in spoken and written English (C1 level).

Conditions of Employment

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. € 2,901 max. € 3,707).  
• 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. 

Information

Do you recognize yourself in this profile and would you like to know more? Please contact the hiring manager dr. Min Wan, m.wan@tue.nl.

Visit our website for more information about the application process or the conditions of employment. You can also contact HR Services Flux, hrservices.flux@tue.nl.

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

Application

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

• Cover letter in which you describe your motivation and qualifications for the position.
• Curriculum vitae, including a list of your publications and the contact information of three references.

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.