PhD candidate on Laser-assisted manipulation for coupling and assembly of photonic chips

Job description

We are looking for a PhD-candidate to strengthen our highly motivated and multi­disciplinary research team, who will work on laser-assisted techniques to manipulate optical elements on a microscopic scale, helping in the assembly of photonic chips, in the framework of a large Dutch project, titled ‘Groeifonds NXTGEN HIGHTECH’. This latter project is targeting groundbreaking developments in next generation high-tech equipment, to support growth and development of important Dutch high-tech sectors. Within the projects, knowledge institutes cooperate with relevant industry on novel solutions for societal challenges.

The Background

Coupling light from optical fibres to integrated waveguides, as well as coupling light from optical chip to optical chip, is a challenge in the mass-production of photonic integrated circuitry. In the project, laser-assisted methods are developed to assist techniques that facilitate fibre-to-chip and chip-to-chip communication.

For an example of our work in the field of laser-assisted manipulation, please refer to: Folkersma, G. , Römer, G. R. B. E. , Brouwer, D. M. , & Herder, J. L. (2016). High precision optical fiber alignment using tube laser bending. International journal of advanced manufacturing technology, 86(1), 953-961.High precision optical fiber alighnment using tube laser bending

Your Challenge

Photonic chips are essential for modern telecommunication, sensing or computing, and integration of those systems is a key factor in making these systems more affordable and portable. While the fabrication of photonic integrated chips advances rapidly, the interface between these chips and fibre optics or free-space optic is still limiting the cost and efficiency of these systems. We expect that laser-based methods can greatly increase speed and reliability of assembly of these photonic systems. Laser-based manipulation can help in trimming components to be accurately aligned with sub-micron precision. In this project, we are looking at the interaction between the ultrashort laser pulses and the materials of the photonic materials used in order to manipulate coupling elements such as micro-mirrors to achieve these optical connections.

You will work with pulsed laser systems to manipulate optical elements on a microscopic scale, helping in assembly of photonic chips. The interaction of laser light and optical materials will be studied and the gained knowledge is used to suggest specific processes that can be used in the production of new generation photonic circuits. For this project, you will work in the labs of the Chair of Laser Processing on a ultrashort pulsed laser system for manipulation of photonic materials. You will perform optical measurements and analyze the modified material with the help of microscopic and other methods.

You will closely collaborate with researchers in other groups at the University of Twente and the industrial partners in the project. You will also have access to the renowned research facilities of the University of Twente.

If you are someone with a strong background in laser-material processing, preferably in ultra-short pulsed laser-material processing, driven by curiosity, creativity, and dedication, we invite you to apply for this opportunity.

Your profile

• You have a Master’s degree, preferably with distinction (or international equivalent) in Mechanical Engineering, Electrical Engineering, Applied Physics, Photonics, Materials Engineering, or a closely related discipline
• Good knowledge/demonstrated awareness of fundamental aspects of laser-material processing. Applied knowledge in laser micromachining or laser-based additive manufacturing are an advantage.
• Experience in using a range of technologies/techniques for surface characterisation, e.g. SEM, EDX, AFM, etc., would be an advantage
• Ability to work in a laboratory environment and undertake experimental research.
• Good knowledge/demonstrated awareness of (numerical) modelling
• Excellent analysis skills and an analytical mind-set, as well as excellent communication skills, including written
• English language proficiency. If you have not graduated in a country where English is the first language, then you will need to demonstrate your English proficiency by having passed IELTS or TOEFL. The minimum overall score for IELTS is at least 6.5 with no component being below 5.5
• We encourage a high degree of responsibility and independence, while collaborating with close colleagues, researchers and other staff
• Starting date of the position: as soon as possible

Applications from suitably qualified female applicants are particularly welcome.

Our offer

• We offer a four-year fulltime PhD position.
• We provide a stimulating, modern research environment with world-class research facilities. And we provide excellent mentorship and a stimulating research environment to accelerate your further professional and personal growth.
• A starting salary of € 2.770,- gross per month in the first year and increasing to € 3.539,- gross per month in the fourth year.
• An annual holiday allowance of 8% of the gross annual salary, and an annual year-end bonus of 8.3%.
• A solid pension scheme.
• Minimum of 40 leave days per annual year in case of full-time employment.
• You will have a training programme as part of the Twente Graduate School where you and your supervisors will determine a plan for a suitable education and supervision.

The University of Twente is situated on a green and lively campus with many facilities for sports and other activities.

Information and application

Additional information about this position can be obtained from Dr Matthias Feinaeugle, department of Mechanics of Solids, Surfaces & Systems (MS3), Chair of Laser Processing, University of Twente, see  for contact details. dr. M. Feinaeugle

We also invite you to have a look at our group’s other current openings at Career UT

Submit your application no later than 7th of July 2024.

Please upload your application (via the Apply Now button), including the following:

• A full Curriculum Vitae, including a list of all courses attended and grades obtained, references and, if applicable, a list of publications, as well as a summary (half page) of your last large deliverable (such as MSc thesis, final project report, etc.)
• Names and roles of references (contact information) of two scientific staff members (such as the supervisor of your MSc thesis/final project) who are willing to provide feedback on our request. Further references (e.g. industrial supervisor or other mentors) can be additionally provided
• A brief video (max. 2minutes) describing your scientific interests, why you want to do a PhD, and why you are applying for this position.
• A Motivational letter (max. 1 A4), emphasizing your specific interest, qualifications, motivations to apply for this position and research ideas for the PhD project.

As an appendix to this motivation letter, add (max. 1 A4) with your answers to the following questions (even though, in your CV, you might have already addressed those questions) :

• a.       Do you have hands-on experience with experimental optical and/or laser setups? If so, what kind of setups?
• b.       Have you worked with photonic or electronic materials?
• c.       Did you ever use material analysis and microscopy techniques? If so, which techniques?
• d.       Have you published any work in peer-reviewed publications? If so, in which publications (journal, conference, other) and how many?
• e.       Have you worked or studied in a country different to where you obtained your primary academic education? If so, where?
• f.        Do you have experience in numerical modelling of physical processes? If so, what processes and what software tools?
• g.       What is your IELTS/Cambridge English level?

• The first round of interviews will take place within 3 weeks after the closing date of this vacancy.

About the department

The Chair of Laser Processing

At the Chair of Laser Processing we study the fundamental physical phenomena occurring during laser-material interaction, in order to optimize laser-material processing for laser-based manufacturing. Based on the knowledge gained, we develop means and methods for monitoring/sensing and control of laser-material processing. Our research results (projects and publications) provide key enabling technologies for numerous new applications and innovative laser-based manufacturing. We are a group consisting of curiosity driven senior and junior scientists, which are well embedded within the department of Mechanics of Solids, Surfaces & Systems (MS3). Additional information can be obtained from the website:Chair of Laser Processing

About the organisation

The Faculty of Engineering Technology (ET) engages in education and research of Mechanical Engineering, Civil Engineering and Industrial Design Engineering. We enable society and industry to innovate and create value using efficient, solid and sustainable technology. We are part of a ‘people-first' university of technology, taking our place as an internationally leading center for smart production, processes and devices in five domains: Health Technology, Maintenance, Smart Regions, Smart Industry and Sustainable Resources. Our faculty is home to about 2,900 Bachelor's and Master's students, 550 employees and 150 PhD candidates. Our educational and research programmes are closely connected with UT research institutes Mesa+ Institute, TechMed Center and Digital Society Institute.