Postdoc In Photonic Chips for Integrated Raman Sensing

Introduction

Raman spectroscopy provides the chemical fingerprint of materials and tissues and enables non-invasive, real-time sensing in manufacturing, agrofood and healthcare. While it is used in analytical labs, its application as in-line sensing method and for healthcare has been limited by the cost and size of Raman spectrometers.
Our group is developing a new concept for Raman sensing based on a photonic integrated chip. If successful, it will allow Raman-based sensing of materials and tissues in a mm-sized chip, which can be manufactured in volume and integrated in industrial and consumer applications, including wearables. Besides developing the sensor, we will collaborate with other research organisations and industrial partners to test its use in different applications, in the framework of the large national initiative PhotonDelta. Working on this project within a small team, you will be developing the Raman sensor technology of the future.

Job Description

The successful candidate will be in charge of developing the sensor technology, in collaboration with a PhD student and another postdoc. This includes the design of the photonic chip, the development of a suitable microfabrication process, the testing of fabricated devices and of their application. The project will be carried out under the supervision of prof. dr. A. Fiore, Dep. Applied Physics and Science Education, and carried out in collaboration with external partners. The postdoctoral appointment will initially be for a period of one year, with the possibility of extension for a second year. The Eindhoven region and its PhotonDelta ecosystem offer ample opportunities for developing an applied R&D career in photonics, within large companies or fast-growing spin-offs.

Job Requirements

• Young and motivated researcher, with a PhD in photonics. Candidates with more than 3 years of experience after their PhD will not be considered.
• Extensive experience in cleanroom fabrication is a must, preferably on III-V-based devices.
• Ability to conduct high quality academic research, reflected in demonstratable outputs.
• A team player who enjoys coaching PhD and Master's students and working in a dynamic, interdisciplinary team.
• A proven ability to manage different aspects of a complex problem with independence.
• Excellent (written and verbal) proficiency in English, good communication skills.

Conditions of Employment

A meaningful job in a dynamic and ambitious university, in an interdisciplinary setting and within an international network. You will work on a beautiful, green campus within walking distance of the central train station. In addition, we offer you:

•  Full-time employment for 1 year (possible extension).
• Salary in accordance with the Collective Labour Agreement for Dutch Universities, scale 10 (min. € 4,241 max. € 5,538).
• A year-end bonus of 8.3% and annual vacation pay of 8%.
• High-quality training programs on general skills, didactics and topics related to research and valorization.
• An excellent technical infrastructure, on-campus children's day care and sports facilities.
• Unlimited access to the modern on‑campus TU/e Student Sports Center at an exceptionally affordable rate.
• Partially paid parental leave and an allowance for commuting, working from home and internet costs. 
• A TU/e Postdoc Association that helps you to build a stronger and broader academic and personal network, and offers tailored support, training and workshops.
• A Staff Immigration Team is available for international candidates, as are a tax compensation scheme (the 30% facility) and a compensation for moving expenses.

On our website you can discover even more information about our conditions of employment. Build on your career at TU/e!

About us

We are a leading international university where scientific curiosity meets a hands-on mindset. We work in an open and collaborative way with high-tech industries to tackle complex societal challenges. Our responsible and respectful approach ensures impact — today and in the future. TU/e is home to over 13,000 students and more than 7,000 staff, forming a diverse and vibrant academic community.

Our university is located in Brainport Eindhoven — a world‑leading tech region with more than 7,000 high‑tech companies and strong R&D activity. Known for breakthroughs in AI, photonics, semiconductors and advanced manufacturing, Brainport is a place where technology serves people and society. Learn more about the Brainport region here.

The Department of Applied Physics and Science Education is a research-driven department housing high-quality educational programs, all featuring strong connections between research and education. Our research is clustered in three focal areas: Fluids, Bio and Soft Matter (FBSM); Plasmas and Beams (PB); and Nano, Quantum and Photonics (NQP). Our shared ambition is to equip the next generation of ‘engineers of the future’ with the knowledge and the skills they will need to impact science, innovation, and society, from regional to global scales.

Information

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Application

We invite you to submit a complete application using the apply-button. The application should include a:

• Cover letter in which you describe your motivation and qualifications for the position.
• Curriculum vitae, including a list of your publications and the contact information of three references. Kindly note that we may reach out to references at any stage of the recruitment process. We recommend notifying your references upon submitting your application.
• List of up to five self-selected ‘best publications’.

Ensure that you submit all the requested application documents. Please note that incomplete applications may not be considered and could be rejected.

We look forward to receiving your application and will screen it as soon as possible. The vacancy will remain open until the position is filled.

Please note

• You can apply online. We will not process applications sent by email and/or post. 
• A pre-employment screening (e.g. knowledge security check) can be part of the selection procedure. For more information on the knowledge security check, please consult the National Knowledge Security Guidelines.
• Please do not contact us for unsolicited services.