About the opportunity
Join the Eindhoven University of Technology (TU/e) to pioneer circular manufacturing concepts for the next generation of photonic chips. This postdoctoral position focuses on developing a new paradigm for the circular manufacturing of heterogeneous photonic integrated circuits (PICs), specifically focusing on reducing material consumption, cost, and waste by enabling the reuse of III-V substrates across multiple fabrication-transfer-reuse cycles. The research will be conducted at the NanoLab@TU/e cleanroom facility and involves collaboration with TNO and the PIXEurope Pilot Line.
Salary and benefits
- Gross base salary ranging from €4,422 to €5,760 per month (full-time), based on scale 10 of the Collective Labour Agreement for Dutch Universities.
- 8% holiday allowance and 8.3% year-end bonus.
- Participation in the ABP pension scheme (TU/e pays 70% of the premium).
- High-quality training programs on general skills, didactics, research, and valorization.
- On-campus children's day care and unlimited access to the TU/e Student Sports Center.
- Free 24/7 access to OpenUp for mental health support.
- Partially paid parental leave and allowances for commuting, working from home, and internet costs.
- Support from the TU/e Postdoc Association.
- International candidate support via the Staff Immigration Team, including a tax compensation scheme (Expat Scheme) and moving expenses compensation.
Who can apply?
- PhD in electrical engineering, applied physics, or a similar field.
- Deep-tech understanding of design, manufacturing, or testing for relevant photonics IC technology (desirable).
- Affinity for hands-on practical work in a cleanroom environment.
- Knowledge of the physics of semiconductor devices and optical waveguides.
- Ability to conduct high-quality academic research with demonstrable outputs.
- Excellent written and verbal proficiency in English.
- Good communication and leadership skills.
Required documents
- Cover letter describing motivation and qualifications.
- Curriculum vitae (CV).
- List of publications.
- Contact information for three references.
When to apply
- The vacancy was published on August 24, 2026.
- The application deadline is September 24, 2026.
- The vacancy will remain open until the position is filled.
How to apply
- Submit a complete application online using the apply-button.
- Include a cover letter describing motivation and qualifications.
- Include a curriculum vitae with a list of publications and contact information for three references.
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…
- Holds a PhD in electrical engineering, applied physics, or a similar field.
- Strong affinity for hands-on practical work in a cleanroom environment.
- Knowledge of the physics of semiconductor devices and optical waveguides.
What should you think carefully about?
- The position is on-site in Eindhoven, meaning relocation will be required for non-local candidates.
- Requires active engagement in hands-on cleanroom processes and collaborative work with external partners like TNO.
- Applicants should verify specific contract timelines if seeking long-term permanent placement beyond standard postdoc frameworks.
How could this fit your current goals and plans?
This postdoctoral role serves as a strong stepping stone for researchers wanting to pioneer sustainable manufacturing concepts and gain deep-tech experience in photonic integrated circuits.
Our take
Researchers specializing in semiconductor physics and cleanroom fabrication should seriously consider this opportunity, whereas those preferring purely theoretical work will find it less suitable.
Ready to apply?
Review the opportunity on the official website before applying.
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