PhD Position in Photonic Fluids and Frequency Comb Dynamics
Explore liquid-like light dynamics in semiconductor lasers through fabrication, precision optics, and nonlinear modelling.
Best for:Best for physics or electrical engineering graduates with a passion for photonics, semiconductor devices, and nonlinear dynamics who enjoy bridging fabrication, experimentation, and theoretical modelling.
Overview
This PhD position at ETH Zürich’s Institute for Quantum Electronics focuses on investigating the dynamics, fluctuations, and open-system physics of 'liquid light' in fast-gain semiconductor lasers. The successful candidate will design and fabricate photonic devices in a cleanroom, build advanced laser and optical measurement setups, and develop theoretical models to understand and control nonlinear laser dynamics. The project bridges semiconductor technology, precision optical experiments, and computational modelling, aiming to establish a versatile experimental platform for studying and manipulating liquid-light phenomena. The work is ideal for applicants with a strong background in physics, electrical engineering, or photonics who are eager to combine hands-on fabrication, experimental research, and theoretical analysis.
What you'll do
- Design and fabricate semiconductor photonic devices using cleanroom processes, followed by electrical and optical characterization.
- Build and operate advanced laser and optical measurement setups to study temporal dynamics, coherence, and light-matter interactions.
- Develop theoretical and numerical models to describe nonlinear laser dynamics and interpret experimental results.
- Perform precision measurements to probe and control liquid-light dynamics in semiconductor lasers.
- Collaborate across device physics, precision measurements, and nonlinear photonic theory to advance the field.
Requirements
Degree required: Master's degree in Physics, Electrical Engineering, Photonics, or a closely related field
Degree offered: PhD
Language: English; proficiency sufficient for academic research and collaboration
Instruction: English
- Strong background in physics or electrical engineering with a focus on photonics or related disciplines
- Interest and ability to combine experimental work (fabrication, optical experiments) with theoretical modelling
- Basic familiarity with semiconductor devices, lasers, or numerical simulations (not strictly required but advantageous)
- No explicit nationality or residency restrictions mentioned
- No age or prior experience caps specified
Funding & terms
How to apply
Deadline: 2026-11-17
Submit a single merged PDF document via ETH Zürich’s online application portal. The PDF must include a cover letter detailing research motivation and experience, a CV, academic transcripts (Bachelor’s and Master’s) in English, three professional reference contacts with email and phone numbers, and a sample of academic writing (e.g., a publication or thesis). Name the PDF using the format: [LastNameInitials_applicationDate] (e.g., DoeJ_20261117_application).
- Cover letter detailing research motivation, interests, and experience
- Curriculum Vitae (CV)
- Academic transcripts of Bachelor’s and Master’s degrees in English
- Three professional reference contacts (email and phone number for each)
- Publication or thesis work sampling academic reasoning and writing
Contact
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