PhD in Pioneering Photonic Terahertz Sensors for Fusion Energy Eindhoven University of Technology in Netherlands

Are you passionate about photonic technologies and their impact on clean energy? Eindhoven University of Technology invites applications for a PhD position focused on pioneering integrated photonic terahertz sensors for nuclear fusion diagnostics. This project aims to develop next-generation terahertz systems to accelerate the transition to sustainable energy, addressing the challenge of plasma instabilities in fusion reactors through advanced diagnostics.

As a PhD candidate, you will design and develop integrated photonic terahertz sensors for Electron Cyclotron Emission (ECE) measurements in fusion reactors. These sensors will enable broadband, high-resolution diagnostics, replacing traditional bulky RF systems with compact, photonic-based solutions. Your responsibilities include architecting and simulating photonic-based radiometer systems, designing and fabricating photonic integrated circuits (PICs) for terahertz sensing, building and testing prototypes, and validating the technology in collaboration with the Max Planck Institute for Plasma Physics (IPP) on the Wendelstein 7-X fusion reactor.

You will be embedded in the Quantum and Terahertz Systems (QTS) group within the Department of Electrical Engineering, and the Science and Technology of Nuclear Fusion group in the Department of Applied Physics. The project is part of the Photofusion initiative, funded by NWO and supported by the National Growth Fund PhotonDelta. Collaborations with leading partners in photonics and fusion research, including SMART Photonics and IPP, are integral to the research environment.

Applicants must have a Master’s degree in Electrical Engineering, Applied Physics, Photonics, or related fields, with a strong interest in photonic and electronic co-design for complex systems-on-chip. The ability to work in interdisciplinary teams and collaborate with industrial partners is essential. Candidates should be research-oriented, motivated to develop new skills, and fluent in English (C1 level).

The position offers full-time employment for four years, with an intermediate assessment after nine months. You will spend a minimum of 10% of your employment on teaching tasks. Salary and benefits are in accordance with the Collective Labour Agreement for Dutch Universities, scale P (€3,059–€3,881/month), plus a year-end bonus (8.3%), annual vacation pay (8%), pension scheme, paid pregnancy and maternity leave, partially paid parental leave, and allowances for commuting, working from home, and internet costs. International candidates benefit from a Staff Immigration Team and a tax compensation scheme (30% facility). Access to campus facilities, including sports and childcare, is provided.

To apply, submit your application online via the provided link. Include a cover letter, CV with publications, and contact information for three references. Complete applications are prioritized. The vacancy remains open until filled, with a deadline of May 8, 2026. For further information, contact Prof. Idelfonso Tafur Monroy, Dr. Bruno Cimoli, or Prof. Roger Jaspers. Applications sent by email or post will not be processed.

Join a vibrant academic community at Eindhoven University of Technology, located in Brainport Eindhoven, a world-leading tech region. The university fosters a collaborative, innovative environment with strong industry partnerships, aiming for societal impact through research and education.