PhD Student Positions in Electron-Light Interaction in Silicon Photonic Nanostructures
Join an EU-funded Horizon Europe doctoral network exploring electron-light interactions in silicon photonic nanostructures.
Best for:Best for highly motivated Master's graduates in physics, chemistry, or engineering with a background in nano-optics, quantum optics, or electron microscopy.
Overview
The Max Planck Institute for Multidisciplinary Sciences invites applications for two fully funded PhD positions within the Department of Ultrafast Dynamics, led by Prof. Dr. Claus Ropers. Successful candidates will investigate electron-light interactions and quantum effects in silicon photonic nanostructures using advanced electron microscopes. As part of the Horizon Europe Doctoral Network QUEST, researchers will collaborate across European institutions to advance silicon nanotechnology and quantum optics. Candidates will also enroll in the GAUSS PhD program at the University of Göttingen, participating in coursework, teaching assistance, and international secondments.
What you'll do
- Design and optimize custom photonic structures and investigate their optical coupling properties
- Perform advanced experiments using electron microscopes to study electron-light interactions
- Conduct numerical simulations and theoretical modeling to complement experimental findings
- Collaborate closely with fellow PhD candidates within the QUEST doctoral network and institute members
- Disseminate research findings through scientific publications in peer-reviewed journals and presentations at international conferences
- Fulfill graduate program requirements at the University of Göttingen, including coursework and teaching assistance
- Complete planned secondments at partner institutions in Denmark and Germany
Requirements
Degree required: Master's degree (MSc or equivalent) in physics, chemistry, or engineering
Degree offered: PhD
Language: English; excellent written and spoken proficiency
Instruction: English
- Strong academic record with demonstrated scientific achievements
- Hands-on experience in electron microscopy, nano-optics, integrated photonics, or quantum optics
- Capacity for independent research and creative problem-solving
- Strong commitment to project management and scientific quality
- Must comply with Marie Skłodowska-Curie actions mobility rules, not having resided or main activity in Germany for more than 12 months in the 3 years prior to recruitment
- Must be in the first 5 years of a research career and must not hold a doctoral degree
Funding & terms
How to apply
Deadline: 2026-10-31 (UTC)
Submit your application as a single PDF file via email to the provided address by the deadline. Ensure the application includes a CV, motivation letter, copies of academic degrees and transcripts, master's thesis if available, and contact details for at least two references.
- CV
- Motivation letter
- Master's degree certificate or proof of expected completion
- Master's thesis
- Academic transcripts
- 3 reference letters
Contact
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