PhD in Meta-optics optomechanics

Organisation/Company ETH Zürich Research Field Engineering » Electrical engineering Engineering » Materials engineering Engineering » Mechanical engineering Engineering » Other Physics » Electromagnetism Physics » Optics Physics » Other Technology » Nanotechnology Researcher Profile First Stage Researcher (R1) Country Switzerland Final date to receive applications 16 Feb 2026 - 22:59 (UTC) Type of Contract Temporary Job Status Full-time Is the job funded through the EU Research Framework Programme?

Not funded by a EU programme Is the Job related to staff position within a Research Infrastructure? No

PhD in Meta-optics based optomechanics

We are seeking for a curious and motivated PhD student to join our optomechanics team and work at the interface between meta-optics and optomechanics.

Recent advances in meta-optics have led to an advanced control over light-matter interaction, greatly contributing to different research directions including imaging, nonlinear optics, biosensing and photonic computing. While less explored, meta-optics also offers great opportunities in the field of optomechanics, which studies the interactions of optical and mechanical properties, with applications to both fundamental physics and technologies.

Project background

The project aims to exploit the latest advances in meta-optics to gain further control over optomechanical interactions.

Through a precise engineering of the electromagnetic modes supported by the metasurfaces, one can control the optical forces they experience and, consequently, their mechanical response.

By investigating unprecedented effects, this research is poised to both advance our fundamental understanding and drive new technological developments.

You work will cover all the steps from idealization of the system to its full characterization:

• The design of optomechanical metasurfaces using numerical simulations
• Their nanofabrication in a clean room environment
• The characterization of their optomechanical properties.

Profile

• The successful candidate shares our passion for cutting edge research, brings in their motivation and creativity, can clearly communicate, enjoys working closely and respectfully within a team and has basic experience in laboratories and in data analysis.
• Prior experience in nanofabrication, nano- and meta-optics, optomechanics, vacuum technology, programming for experiment control is highly valued but not mandatory.

We offer

• We are an international and interdisciplinary research group at the ETH Zürich that has made pioneering contributions to optomechanics.
• During your PhD, you will get exposed to a multitude of technologies including nanofabrication, optics, lasers, data analysis, vacuum technology and numerical simulations.

Working, teaching and research at ETH Zurich We value diversity and sustainability

In line with our values , ETH Zurich encourages an inclusive culture. We promote equality of opportunity, value diversity and nurture a working and learning environment in which the rights and dignity of all our staff and students are respected. Visit our Equal Opportunities and Diversity website to find out how we ensure a fair and open environment that allows everyone to grow and flourish.

Sustainability is a core value for us – we are consistently working towards a climate-neutral future .Curious? So are we.

We look forward to receiving your online application with the following documents:

• Update CV

Please note that we exclusively accept applications submitted through our online application portal. Applications via email or postal services will not be considered.

Further information about the Nanophotonic Systems Laboratory (NSL) can be found on our website .Questions regarding the position should be directed to Prof. Romain Quidant (rquidant ) and Dr. Nadine Meyer (nmeyer )

We would like to point out that the pre-selection is carried out by the responsible recruiters and not by artificial intelligence.

About ETH Zürich

ETH Zurich is one of the world’s leading universities specialising in
science and technology. We are renowned for our excellent education,
cutting-edge fundamental research and direct transfer of new knowledge
into society. Over 30,000 people from more than 120 countries find our
university to be a place that promotes independent thinking and an
environment that inspires excellence. Located in the heart of Europe,
yet forging connections all over the world, we work together to
develop solutions for the global challenges of today and tomorrow.