About the opportunity
Are you passionate about cutting-edge semiconductor technology for solving real societal problems? This PhD position at the Department of Applied Physics and Science Education involves pushing the limits of spectroscopic analysis by developing novel photonic chips working at ultralow light levels (down to femtowatts). These chips form the core of sensors crucial for advancing healthcare and the energy transition. Near-infrared spectroscopy allows characterizing materials and tissues, but reflection-based approaches require powerful light sources. This project explores advanced device designs and fabrication methods in the NanoLab@TU/e cleanroom facility to combine spectral discrimination and detection at the femtowatt and low picowatt level in a single device, collaborating with industrial partners and other TU/e research groups.
Salary and benefits
- Full-time employment for four years, with an intermediate assessment after nine months
- Gross monthly salary ranging from €3,204 to €4,051 in accordance with scale P of the Collective Labour Agreement for Dutch Universities
- An 8% holiday allowance and an 8.3% year-end bonus calculated on annual gross base salary
- Generous leave options of 29 days per year, expandable to 41 days by working flexible hours
- Participation in the ABP pension scheme, with TU/e covering 70% of the premium
- High-quality training programs, technical infrastructure, and teaching duties taking 10% to 15% of your time
- Commuting, working from home, and internet cost allowances
- Support from a Staff Immigration Team and eligibility for a tax compensation scheme (Expat Scheme) for international candidates
Who can apply?
- A recent master's degree or equivalent university degree in Physics, Electrical Engineering, or Materials Science
- Candidates who obtained their master's degree more than two years ago will not be considered
- A research-oriented attitude and strong interest and motivation for experimental work
- Ability to work in an interdisciplinary team
- Motivation to develop teaching skills and coach students
- Fluent in spoken and written English at a C1 level
Required documents
- Cover letter describing your motivation and qualifications for the position
- Curriculum vitae, including a list of publications and contact information for three references
When to apply
- Published on October 21, 2026
- Application deadline is December 15, 2026
How to apply
- Prepare your cover letter and curriculum vitae including publication list and references
- Submit your complete application online by using the apply button on the official vacancy page
Additional information
- You will spend a minimum of 10% and a maximum of 15% of your employment per year on teaching tasks
- A pre-employment screening such as a knowledge security check may be part of the selection procedure
- Applications sent by email or post will not be processed
Our Take on This Opportunity
This section reflects Open Opportunities’ own analysis of the opportunity from an applicant’s perspective.
You may be a strong fit if…
- Ideal for recent master's graduates in physics, electrical engineering, or materials science looking to build an academic career through rigorous experimental work
- Strong fit for researchers interested in nanophotonics, semiconductor fabrication, and cleanroom environments
- Well-suited for candidates who enjoy collaborating across disciplines with academic and industrial partners
What should you think carefully about?
- Requires relocation to Eindhoven, Netherlands, for the duration of the four-year contract
- Applicants whose master's degrees were obtained more than two years ago are strictly ineligible
- Candidates must be prepared to balance research commitments with teaching responsibilities of 10% to 15% per year
How could this fit your current goals and plans?
This fully funded four-year PhD position offers an excellent stepping stone for individuals aiming to build a career in academic research or high-tech semiconductor industries. It provides hands-on cleanroom experience, international networking opportunities, and structured professional development within a leading technical university.
Our take
Recent master's graduates in relevant engineering or science fields with a strong interest in experimental photonics and a C1 level of English should apply before the December 15, 2026 deadline. Candidates who graduated more than two years ago should not apply.
Ready to apply?
Review the opportunity on the official website before applying.
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