PhD Position double degree TU Eindhoven / TU Darmstadt on Terahertz Phototransistors

Introduction

Eager to bridge photonics and terahertz technology? Develop terahertz phototransistors in a unique double PhD degree: 2 years at TU/e (NL) + 2 years at TU Darmstadt (DE) starting from November 2025. Create devices for breakthrough terahertz applications.

Job Description

How can we unlock the potential of terahertz (100 GHz–10 THz) waves for transformative applications in security, medical imaging, and wireless communication? In this PhD project, you will pioneer novel phototransistor technology to generate and amplify terahertz radiation with unprecedented efficiency. Your core challenge: designing, fabricating, and characterizing semiconductor devices that convert laser light into high-power terahertz signals—bridging a critical gap in today’s photonic systems.

Your Research
You will:

• Design and optimize semiconductor heterostructures for terahertz phototransistors.
• Grow semiconductor layers and fabricate devices usingTU/e’s state-of-the-art cleanroom facilities.
• Characterize devices using dual continuous-wave lasers or ultrafast pulsed lasers, measuring THz emission via on-chip antennas.
• Working with the Terahertz Nanophotonics and Integration Technology Lab (TNIT) at TU/e and TU Darmstadt’s Terahertz Devices and Systems Lab (TSYS) (Prof. Sascha Preu) in a unique double-degree program.
• Validate results in THz labs at both universities and publish breakthroughs in top journals/conferences.

Societal Impact
Your work will enable non-invasive cancer detection, ultra-secure communications, and next-generation THz devices—addressing global challenges in healthcare and digital infrastructure.

Research Environment
You’ll join a dynamic, internationally diverse team at TU/e’s Integrated Circuits Group. Our collaborative culture fosters innovation, with shared facilities including:

• TU/e NanoLab Cleanroom
• The Center for Terahertz Science and Technology Eindhoven (CTSTe)
• Exchange opportunities at TU Darmstadt’s THz Lab

We Offer

• A 4-year dual PhD degree with TU/e and TU Darmstadt.
• Mentorship from leading experts in photonics and terahertz technology.
• Training in semiconductor growth, nanofabrication, and advanced photonics.
• A supportive, inclusive team passionate about science and societal impact.

Job Requirements

• A master’s degree (or an equivalent university degree) in Electrical Engineering or Physics. The first master or diploma degree shall not be older than four years.
• A research-oriented attitude.
• Ability to work in an interdisciplinary team and interested in collaborating with industrial partners.
• Motivated to develop your teaching skills and coach students.
• Fluent in spoken and written English (C1 level).

The applicant shall have knowledge/experience in at least one of the following topics:

• Semiconductors
• Experience with lasers and fiber optics
• Terahertz
• Clean room experience

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, 2 years at TU/e (NL) + 2 years at TU Darmstadt (DE), 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. 

Information and application

About us

Eindhoven University of Technology is an internationally top-ranking university in the Netherlands that combines scientific curiosity with a hands-on attitude. Our spirit of collaboration translates into an open culture and a top-five position in collaborating with advanced industries. Fundamental knowledge enables us to design solutions for the highly complex problems of today and tomorrow. 

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

About the Terahertz Nanophotonics and Integration Technology Lab (TNIT) at TU Eindhoven, Netherlands: TNIT Lab pioneers nanophotonic materials and nanotechnology for advanced terahertz devices and systems. Our research spans theory, design, fabrication, characterization, optimization, and system integration. We develop novel terahertz nanodevices using nanoelectrodes (nanowires, graphene), enhancing power and frequency. Our mission is developing Terahertz Photonic Integrated Circuits (THz-PICs), integrating lasers, photonics, and THz nanodevices on a single chip. These enable applications in 6G communications, biomedical sensing (e.g., virus detection), security, and industrial inspection.

About Terahertz Devices and Systems Lab (TSYS) at TU Darmstadt, Germany: The Terahertz Devices and Systems Laboratory develops sources, receivers and systems for the Terahertz (100 GHz-10 THz) range. We also focus on dedicated applications, e.g. in spectroscopy and imaging in a well equipped Terahertz and Optics Laboratory. Being part of the institute of microwave engineering and photonics, we have access to a semiconductor processing clean room and further technology. Further information is available under: https://www.tsys.tu-darmstadt.de

Information

Do you recognize yourself in this profile and would you like to know more? Please contact the hiring manager Prof. Dr. Ing. Shihab Al-Daffaie (s.al-daffaie@tue.nl or +31 40 247 8180).

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.