The Machine Learning in Photonic Systems group at DTU Electro, Technical University of Denmark, invites applications for a fully funded PhD scholarship focused on photonic reservoir computing in coupled resonant structures. This position is part of the EU-funded Marie Skłodowska-Curie Doctoral Network project MINDnet, which brings together 15 PhD students across 7 universities, a research center, and two companies from eight EU countries. The overarching theme of the network is neuromorphic computing and analog signal processing, with applications spanning communication, sensing, geolocalization, space, and biomedical fields.

The successful candidate will join an international team at DTU Electro, working on multiplexing in photonic integrated circuits to enhance computing efficiency through parallelism. The research will involve both numerical and experimental approaches, leveraging the expertise and collaborative environment of DTU Electro, which is recognized globally for excellence in electrical and photonics engineering. The project will include secondments of at least three months at the Technical University of Illmenau (Germany), HPE (Belgium), and University of Trento (Italy), as well as participation in training schools and workshops with other doctoral candidates in the network.

Research tasks will include investigating the links between nonlinear dynamics and computing metrics in micro-ring resonators and coupled ring-resonator architectures, evaluating the number and spatial distribution of coupled cavities for photonic reservoir computing, and validating analyses on small-scale circuits (less than 10 coupled cavities). The project aims to advance the energy efficiency and computational capabilities of photonic systems, inspired by the brain’s processing power and efficiency.

Applicants must hold a two-year master's degree (120 ECTS points) or equivalent in a relevant field such as electrical engineering, photonics, physics, or related disciplines. 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. Proficiency in English is required, and all application materials must be submitted in English. The scholarship is subject to academic approval and enrolment in a DTU PhD programme.

Funding is provided through the Marie Skłodowska-Curie Doctoral Network, offering a 3-year employment contract with a minimum monthly base salary of DKK 29,691.75, a PhD supplement of DKK 1,551.00, and pension contributions. Salary is determined by seniority and collective agreement. DTU offers a dynamic and inclusive international research environment, with over 300 staff in electrical and photonics engineering and a strong commitment to academic excellence and societal impact.

To apply, candidates must submit a complete online application by 15 March 2026, including a cover letter, CV, grade transcripts, and BSc/MSc diploma (with grading scale description) in a single PDF file via the application portal. For further information, contact Associate Professor Francesco Da Ros ([email protected]) or visit the DTU Electro website. DTU encourages applications from all qualified candidates regardless of age, gender, disability, race, religion, or ethnic background.

This position offers a unique opportunity to contribute to cutting-edge research in photonic computing, collaborate internationally, and develop expertise in a rapidly evolving field at a leading technical university.