PhD in Neuromorphic Photonics for Event-Driven Sensing via Heterogeneous Integration Eindhoven University of Technology in Netherlands

At Eindhoven University of Technology (TU/e), a PhD position is available in Neuromorphic Photonics for Event-Driven Sensing via Heterogeneous Integration. The project focuses on developing the next generation of intelligent photonic chips, with an emphasis on ultra-fast, energy-efficient optical information processing for sensing applications. The research sits at the intersection of photonics, semiconductor devices, and neuromorphic computing, and is hosted by the Photonic Integration (PhI) group.

The central scientific goal is to create highly sensitive photodetector neurons by combining resonant tunneling diode (RTD) excitable dynamics with quantum-dot active devices. These devices are intended to respond nonlinearly to extremely weak optical signals and to support sparse, event-driven optical spikes. The resulting photonic neurons will be implemented as compact InP coupons designed for heterogeneous integration on silicon-based photonic platforms. This approach aims to enable scalable co-integration with advanced photonic and electronic circuits for intelligent sensing.

The project will validate the developed technology in a proof-of-concept event-driven sensing application, where information is processed only when meaningful events occur. Expected benefits include lower latency, reduced data volumes, and improved energy efficiency. The work covers the full technology stack, including device physics, photonic and electronic design, modelling, chip layout, cleanroom fabrication, heterogeneous integration, and experimental characterization.

You will work within a leading research environment with a strong track record in indium phosphide (InP) photonic integration. TU/e’s Nanolab cleanroom facility provides advanced infrastructure for III-V semiconductor processing, including tools for epitaxy, lithography, etching, bonding, and wafer-scale fabrication. The group also plays a prominent role in JePPIX, the Joint European Platform for photonic integrated components and circuits, underscoring its international standing in integrated photonics.

The position is a full-time, four-year PhD employment with an intermediate assessment after nine months. Salary and employment conditions follow the Collective Labour Agreement for Dutch Universities, with a gross monthly scale P salary and additional benefits such as holiday allowance, year-end bonus, pension, training support, and commuting/working-from-home allowances. The position is based in Eindhoven, the Netherlands, within Brainport Eindhoven, a major high-tech region.

Eligibility highlights: a master’s degree in electrical engineering, applied physics, or a related discipline; strong interest in semiconductor device physics and optical waveguides; hands-on cleanroom aptitude; comfort in interdisciplinary and industry-facing research; and C1-level English proficiency.

Application window: the vacancy remains open until filled, with a listed deadline of 2026-09-24. Applications must be submitted online through the apply button. A complete application should include a cover letter, CV with publications, and contact details for three references.