PhD Position in Silicon Carbide Photonic Integrated Circuits for Quantum Communication at Technical University of Denmark

The Technical University of Denmark (DTU) invites applications for a PhD position within the EU-funded project “Silicon carbide photonic integrated circuit (SiCPIC)”, part of the Marie Skłodowska-Curie Doctoral Network. The research focuses on the generation of optical quantum states—specifically photon pairs and entangled photon states—in waveguide devices based on silicon carbide material. The overarching goal is to demonstrate devices for quantum communication applications. This PhD position is embedded in an international network of 15 PhD students across five universities and one company, all working on Silicon carbide on insulator (SiCOI) devices and their integration for classic and quantum optical telecommunication, as well as optical sensing. The successful candidate will be based at DTU Electro, with a secondment of approximately six months at Istituto Nazionale di Ricerca Metrologica, Italy. The project also includes participation in three training schools and regular meetings with the doctoral network. As a member of the DTU team, the PhD student will benefit from expertise in nonlinear optics in optical fibers and planar waveguides, and will engage in collaborative research with other projects and activities within the department. The main supervisor is Professor Karsten Rottwitt, a leading expert in the field. Research responsibilities include designing and characterizing waveguide devices for photon pair sources, optimizing waveguides, and developing sources of entangled quantum states using four wave mixing. Theoretical and experimental work will be central to the project, with a strong emphasis on innovation and interdisciplinary collaboration. Applicants must hold a two-year master's degree (120 ECTS points) or equivalent in photonics, electrical engineering, applied physics, or a related field. Experience with optical waveguides, quantum optics, and experimental research is advantageous. Due to Marie Skłodowska-Curie mobility rules, candidates must not have resided or carried out their main activity in Denmark for more than 12 months in the 36 months prior to recruitment. Academic approval and enrolment in a DTU PhD program are required. The position offers a minimum salary of €49,578 per year (pre-tax and social security), based on collective agreement, with a 3-year employment contract and full benefits. DTU provides a dynamic, international research environment, with opportunities for professional development and participation in outreach activities, including public events and dissemination to popular press. Applications must be submitted online by 6 April 2026. Required documents include a cover letter, CV, grade transcripts, and BSc/MSc diploma (in English) with an official description of the grading scale. You may apply prior to obtaining your master's degree but cannot begin before having received it. DTU encourages applications from candidates of all backgrounds and conducts open-source background checks for positions involving critical technology. For further information, visit DTU Electro or access the application portal via the provided link. DTU is committed to developing technology for people and advancing the UN’s Sustainable Development Goals through elite research and education.