PhD in Photonic Integrated Circuit-Assisted Nanowire-Based Neuromorphic Computing – PHINDER project

The Photonic Neural Network Lab within the Electro-Optics Communication (ECO) group at Eindhoven University of Technology (TU/e) invites applications for a fully funded PhD position in the field of photonic integrated circuit-assisted nanowire-based neuromorphic computing, as part of the European PHINDER project. The ECO group is internationally recognized for its research in photonics, optics, and quantum systems, and offers access to state-of-the-art laboratory and cleanroom facilities. The group is highly interdisciplinary, with over 100 members, and collaborates with leading academic and industrial partners. The PHINDER project (Picosecond-scale Photonic Heterogeneous Integrated Neuromorphic Detector) is funded by the EIC Pathfinder 2025 program and aims to develop advanced neuromorphic photonic sensor systems capable of analyzing light signals at the picosecond scale with extremely low energy consumption. The project brings together a consortium of top European universities and companies, including Luleå University of Technology, Lund University, NanoLund, Universidad de Oviedo, Universidad de Cantabria, Istituto Nazionale di Fisica Nucleare, and Hewlett Packard Enterprise. The research focuses on integrating nanostructured III–V semiconductor nanowires, programmable photonic waveguides, and neuromorphic sensor arrays into unified hardware systems for ultrafast, energy-efficient optical signal processing. As a PhD candidate, you will contribute to the modeling, design, fabrication, and experimental demonstration of photonic spiking neural network architectures. Your work will involve simulation of nanowire–photonic interfaces, development of planar InP photonic platforms, integration of nanowire devices, and experimental validation of reconfigurable photonic circuits. The position offers opportunities for interdisciplinary collaboration and participation in an international research consortium. Eligibility: Applicants must have a master’s degree in photonics, electrical engineering, applied physics, or a related field. Required skills include experience with integrated photonics (preferably III–V or InP platforms), waveguide and coupler design using electromagnetic simulation tools, and familiarity with cleanroom fabrication and experimental characterization of photonic devices. Experience with reconfigurable photonic circuits and an interest in neuromorphic computing are highly desirable. Excellent communication skills and fluency in English (C1) are essential. Funding & Benefits: The position is fully funded for four years, with a competitive salary (scale P: €3,059–€3,881/month), year-end bonus, vacation pay, pension scheme, parental leave, commuting and internet allowances, and the 30% tax compensation scheme for international candidates. TU/e provides high-quality training, technical infrastructure, and a supportive international environment. Application: Apply online by submitting a cover letter, CV (including publications), and contact details for three references. Only complete applications submitted via the official application portal will be considered. The position will remain open until filled, with priority given to early applicants. For further information, contact Associate Professor Patty Stabile ([email protected]).