Phd position optical metrology

This exciting PhD opportunity is both experimental and computational. It entails a range of fundamental problems in optics. One of them is to determine a spatially-dependent refractive index distribution of an unknown sample, akin to a "tomogrophy" of the refractive index. This represents a crucial step towards freeform gradient-index optics. The latter offers novel optical design perspectives towards tailored refractive indices employing inverse design.

The PhD is embedded in the AWAVE project and offers a multidisciplinary approach interfacing with a large team both locally at TU Delft as well as Eindhoven University of Technology and University of Twente as well as industrial partners. Thus, a platform that represents a diverse and internationally attractive training ground. 

• An MSc degree in physics, engineering or mathematics, ideally with connection to optics.
• Strong mathematics and physics background.
• Experimental skills, in particular related optics and, more specifically optical metrology desirable.
• Programming skills with e.g. MATLAB, Python, and/or C++ desirable.
• Interest in multidisciplinary research, optics and numerical modelling.
• A curious and an initiative-driven mindset for approaching problems from various angles.
• Sound knowledge of the English language, both oral and written proficiency.

Nice to have; 

• Prior publishing or research experience.
• Dutch language skills.

Delft University of Technology is built on strong foundations. As creators of the world-famous Dutch waterworks and pioneers in biotech, TU Delft is a top international university combining science, engineering and design. It delivers world class results in education, research and innovation to address challenges in the areas of energy, climate, mobility, health and digital society. For generations, our engineers have proven to be entrepreneurial problem-solvers, both in business and in a social context.

At TU Delft we embrace diversity as one of our core values and we actively engage to be a university where you feel at home and can flourish. We value different perspectives and qualities. We believe this makes our work more innovative, the TU Delft community more vibrant and the world more just. Together, we imagine, invent and create solutions using technology to have a positive impact on a global scale. That is why we invite you to apply. Your application will receive fair consideration.

Challenge. Change. Impact!

From chip to ship. From machine to human being. From idea to solution. Driven by a deep-rooted desire to understand our environment and discover its underlying mechanisms, research and education at the ME faculty focusses on fundamental understanding, design, production including application and product improvement, materials, processes and (mechanical) systems.

ME is a dynamic and innovative faculty with high-tech lab facilities and international reach. It's a large faculty but also versatile, so we can often make unique connections by combining different disciplines. This is reflected in ME's outstanding, state-of-the-art education, which trains students to become responsible and socially engaged engineers and scientists. We translate our knowledge and insights into solutions to societal issues, contributing to a sustainable society and to the development of prosperity and well-being. That is what unites us in pioneering research, inspiring education and (inter)national cooperation.

 to go to the website of the Faculty of Mechanical Engineering. Do you want to experience working at our faculty? These videos will introduce you to some of our researchers and their work.

Doctoral candidates will be offered a 4-year period of employment in principle, but in the form of 2 employment contracts. An initial 1,5 year contract with an official go/no go progress assessment within 15 months. Followed by an additional contract for the remaining 2,5 years assuming everything goes well and performance requirements are met. 

Salary and benefits are in accordance with the Collective Labour Agreement for Dutch Universities, increasing from € 2872 per month in the first year to € 3670 in the fourth year. As a PhD candidate you will be enrolled in the TU Delft Graduate School. The TU Delft Graduate School provides an inspiring research environment with an excellent team of supervisors, academic staff and a mentor. The Doctoral Education Programme is aimed at developing your transferable, discipline-related and research skills. 

The TU Delft offers a customisable compensation package, discounts on health insurance, and a monthly work costs contribution. Flexible work schedules can be arranged.  

is available, to support your accompanying partner with their job search in the Netherlands.  

Are you interested in this vacancy? Please apply no later than via the application button and upload the following documents:

• Your detailed CV (including a list of publications or conference presentations, if any).

• A cover letter explaining why you are a suitable candidate for this project, linking it to your past experience and education (max 400 words).

• Transcript of courses (with grades) for both your bachelor's and master's degree.

• Name and contact information of two referees.

The review of applications will start immediately and the interview process will begin when the field sufficiently competitive. 

Doing a PhD at TU Delft requires English proficiency at a certain level to ensure that the candidate is able to communicate and interact well, participate in English-taught Doctoral Education courses, and write scientific articles and a final thesis. For more details please check the Graduate Schools Admission Requirements. 

Please note:

• A pre-employment screening can be part of the selection procedure.
• For the final candidates, a knowledge security check will be part of the application procedure. For more information on this check, please consult Chapter 8 of the National Knowledge Security Guidelines. We carry out this check on the basis of legitimate interest.
• Please do not contact us for unsolicited services.