PhD in Electron Beam Lithography for Nanoimprint Masters for High-Power Laser Pulse Compressors University of Eastern Finland in Finland

The University of Eastern Finland is recruiting a Doctoral Researcher (PhD student) for the TRADES Doctoral Network (MSCA-DN) in the Department of Physics and Mathematics, Faculty of Science, Forestry and Technology. The position is based on the Joensuu campus, Finland, and is planned to start no later than 1 January 2027. It is a full-time, fixed-term three-year doctoral position.

The project focuses on electron beam lithography and the development and optimisation of fabrication processes for master templates used in nanoimprint lithography (NIL) for grating waveguide structures (GWS) in high-power laser pulse compressors. The work sits at the intersection of physics, mechanical engineering, mathematics, and photonics, with strong relevance to cleanroom fabrication, precision patterning, and optical component manufacturing.

The doctoral researcher will work on large-area patterning accuracy, process-induced deformation compensation, linewidth and periodicity uniformity, master template fabrication, in-house replication testing, and documentation for future implementation. The samples will be characterised in collaboration with other doctoral candidates in the TRADES network and qualified for use with high-power lasers. The position also includes participation in an international training programme with doctoral schools, workshops, secondments, and interdisciplinary research activities across academic and industrial partners.

Funding: The position is funded through Horizon Europe / MSCA. The salary follows the MSCA scheme and includes living and mobility allowances; the gross salary is approximately EUR 4,190/month, or about EUR 4,730/month if family allowance applies.

Eligibility highlights: Applicants need a Master’s degree (or equivalent) in Mechanical Engineering, Mathematics, Physics, or Photonics, with solid optics knowledge. Candidates must be in the first four years of their research career, must not already hold a PhD, must be fluent in English, and must satisfy the MSCA mobility rule (not having resided or carried out their main activity in Finland for more than 12 months in the previous 3 years). Preferred experience includes physics/materials science/photonics background, cleanroom practice, programming or simulation tools, and hands-on optics/laser experimentation.

How to apply: Submit the application via the university’s electronic application form by 21 October 2026, 23:59 Finnish time. Include a CV, degree certificates, transcripts, Master’s thesis and publications if available, a one-page motivation letter, two recommendation letters, and any other supporting documents. Official English translations are required for non-English degree documents.