PhD in Device Integration of One-Way Transparent Optical Films for AR and Smart Visor Demonstrators Eindhoven University of Technology in Netherlands

PhD opportunity at Eindhoven University of Technology in the device integration of one-way transparent optical films for augmented reality and smart visor demonstrators.

This project is part of TactVision: The Liquid Crystal Polymer Invisibility Cloak and is embedded in the research group of Dr. Danqing Liu at TU/e. The research aims to translate advanced liquid crystal polymer coatings from materials into functioning optical devices. The films are designed so projected information can be seen from one side while remaining hidden from the opposite side, opening possibilities for AR glasses, smart visors, privacy-enhancing displays, and adaptive photonic devices.

The PhD will focus on device integration and demonstrator development. You will work on integrating one-way transparent films onto curved and transparent substrates, visors, and AR-style optical components. The work includes lamination, bonding, encapsulation, optical alignment, packaging, and durability testing, with the goal of building demonstrators where the projected image is visible to the wearer while outward light leakage is minimized.

Research tasks include optimizing projection optics with cholesteric reflection bands, evaluating one-way visibility and outward light suppression, and assessing transparency, haze, angular response, brightness, contrast, colour fidelity, and image quality. You will also design and construct compact demonstrators using micro-projectors, micro-LEDs, waveguides, or similar display modules, while performing environmental and mechanical tests such as bending, abrasion, humidity exposure, thermal cycling, and long-term stability studies.

The position is highly interdisciplinary and involves collaboration with materials researchers developing the films and with optical/perception experts assessing device performance. The project also supports translation toward scalable and manufacturable optical devices, making it attractive for candidates interested in applied research and prototype engineering.

Eligibility and profile: a master’s degree or equivalent in materials science, mechanical engineering, electrical engineering, applied physics, optics/photonics, display technology, microsystems engineering, or product-oriented prototyping. Experience with optical systems, AR/VR hardware, thin-film integration, lamination, flexible electronics, micro-LEDs, waveguides, CAD design, mechanical testing, or prototype development is highly welcome. Applicants should be research-oriented, enjoy practical device-building challenges, work well in interdisciplinary teams, be interested in industrial collaboration, and be fluent in spoken and written English.

Funding and terms: this is a full-time PhD employment for four years, with an intermediate assessment after nine months. The appointment includes teaching duties, salary according to Dutch university scale P, and standard employment benefits.

Application deadline: 2026-07-30. Applications are accepted online until the position is filled.