Doctoral Position in Mid-Infrared Integrated Photonics and Optical Sensing

The Optical Nanomaterial Laboratory in the Physics Department at ETH Zurich is looking for a doctoral researcher in mid-infrared integrated photonics and optical sensing. Mid-infrared (MIR) photonics enables highly sensitive and selective spectroscopic detection of molecular species and has applications in environmental monitoring, biomedical diagnostics, industrial process control, and fundamental research.

The project will focus on the development of integrated MIR photonic devices for advanced optical sensing and spectroscopy. The successful candidate will work at the interface of integrated photonics, nonlinear optics, and MIR spectroscopy, contributing to the design, simulation, fabrication, and experimental characterization of photonic devices.

• This doctoral project provides training across the complete development cycle of MIR integrated photonic devices
• The doctoral student will develop numerical models, design photonic layouts and contribute to micro- and nanofabrication processes in the cleanroom, and perform optical and electrical measurements to evaluate device performance
• The work will also involve MIR optical characterization, spectroscopy experiments, and data analysis

• The successful candidate should be highly motivated, curious, rigorous, and creative, with an interest in addressing technically demanding experimental challenges
• Applicants should hold, or be close to obtaining, a Master's degree in physics, electrical engineering, photonics, materials science, or a related field
• The position will involve significant cleanroom work; prior experience in micro- and nanofabrication is therefore highly beneficial

Experience in one or more of the following areas is advantageous:

• Micro- and nanofabrication, lithography, etching, thin-film processing, or cleanroom work
• Integrated photonics, waveguide optics, nanophotonics, or MIR photonics
• Optical characterization, laser-based experiments, or spectroscopy
• Numerical modelling and simulation of optical or multiphysics devices
• Python, MATLAB, or similar tools for scientific data analysis and automation
• Nonlinear optics, frequency conversion, radio-frequency electronics

We offer a fully funded doctoral position in an international and interdisciplinary research environment, with access to advanced cleanroom facilities, photonics laboratories, simulation tools, and state-of-the‑art MIR measurement equipment. The position provides broad training in integrated photonic‑device development, from device design and fabrication to experimental demonstration. The successful candidate will have opportunities to contribute to scientific publications, attend international conferences, and collaborate with academic partners.

Aditionally you become part of ETH Zurich, which not only supports your professional development, but also actively contributes to positive change in society. You can also expect numerous benefits, such as public‑transport season tickets and car sharing, a wide range of sports offered by ASVZ, childcare, and attractive pension benefits.

Working, teaching and research at ETH Zurich

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.

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Further information about the Optical Nanomaterial Laboratory can be found on our Website.

The start date is flexible. The position is intended for four years, subject to institutional regulations and satisfactory progress.