PhD Position in Frequency Lattices and RF-Controlled Comb Dynamics ETH Zürich in Switzerland

This PhD position at ETH Zürich focuses on the study of frequency lattices and RF-controlled comb dynamics in fast-gain lasers. The research group is pioneering new methods for generating and controlling frequency combs—laser sources that produce many precisely tuned optical lines, which serve as rulers for light. Unlike conventional combs that rely on passive mode-locking, this project leverages resonant radio-frequency (RF) modulation to create synthetic frequency lattices, enabling rapid proliferation of comb lines and novel regimes of spectral control.

The project combines advanced numerical modeling with laboratory demonstrations to investigate the physics of synthetic frequency lattices in fast-gain lasers. Key research activities include developing simulation frameworks to map the interplay of RF modulation, gain recovery, and nonlinear dynamics; studying ballistic versus diffusive transport of light in synthetic lattices and connecting these phenomena to quantum walk physics; and exploring how lattice engineering—such as periodicity, disorder, and synthetic gauge fields—affects comb bandwidth, stability, and tunability. Experimental validation will be performed using mid-infrared quantum cascade lasers, with direct feedback between modeling and laboratory work. The ideal candidate will have a background in physics, photonics, or electrical engineering, and be interested in both theoretical and experimental research.

Experience with numerical simulations (e.g., time-domain propagation, coupled-mode theory, or nonlinear ODE/PDE solvers), hands-on laboratory work with lasers and photonic devices, and skills in Python-based data acquisition and analysis are highly valued. The position offers a unique environment at ETH Zürich, combining theory, computation, and experiment, and provides opportunities for close collaboration with experts in photonics, nonlinear dynamics, and topological physics both within ETH and internationally.

Applications are invited from motivated candidates who wish to contribute to pioneering synthetic lattice physics in photonics, with potential applications in spectroscopy, communications, and LIDAR. ETH Zürich is committed to diversity, sustainability, and providing an inclusive environment for all staff and students. Applicants must submit their materials online, including a cover letter, CV, academic transcripts, three professional references, and a sample publication or thesis. For questions about the position, contact Mr Alexander Dikopoltsev at [email protected].