PhD Position in Photonic Reservoir Computing (EU Researcher) at Ilmenau University of Technology Ilmenau University of Technology in Germany

The Ilmenau University of Technology, located in Germany, is offering a fully funded PhD position in Photonic Reservoir Computing as part of the EU-funded MINDnet Doctoral Network. The position is based in the Department of Physics, within the Theoretical Physics II group, and supervised by Prof. Dr. Kathy Lüdge. The research focuses on adaptability and memory in physical reservoir computing systems, with a particular emphasis on photonic devices and nonlinear dynamics in complex laser systems.

The successful candidate will join an international team collaborating across seven universities, one research center, and two companies in eight EU countries. The MINDnet project brings together 15 PhD students working on neuromorphic computing and analog signal processing, targeting applications in communication, sensing, geolocalization, space, and biomedical fields. The PhD student will benefit from secondments at HP Enterprise (Belgium), Technical University of Denmark (Kopenhagen), and University College London (UK), gaining hands-on experience with large-scale neuromorphic chips, optical ring resonators, and optical excitation in memristors. Regular meetings, training schools, and workshops with other doctoral candidates in the network foster a collaborative and interdisciplinary research environment.

Research activities will include bifurcation analysis of optical computing units, investigation of machine learning tasks requiring short-term memory (such as time series prediction and speech recognition), and modelling of optical networks to identify optimal operation regions. The project aims to advance the understanding of energy-efficient photonic platforms for neuromorphic computing, addressing challenges in device architecture and integration technologies inspired by the brain’s processing capabilities.

Applicants must hold a two-year master's degree in physics or a closely related discipline. Desirable qualifications include programming experience (Python or C++), basic knowledge of laser modelling and nonlinear dynamics, and strong English communication skills. Candidates must not have resided or worked in Germany for more than 12 months in the 36 months prior to recruitment and must not already possess a doctoral degree. The position is full-time and open to candidates of any nationality, with selection based on CV, experience, and skills. Severely disabled applicants with equivalent professional suitability will be given preference.

The funding package includes a monthly gross salary of €4,768.12, covering living and mobility allowances, with possible additional family and special needs allowances. Social security fees and taxes will be deducted. The university offers 30 days of vacation per year, flexible working models, individual training opportunities, and a supportive, family-friendly environment. The application deadline is March 15, 2026. For further information, candidates may contact Prof. Dr. Kathy Lüdge at TU Ilmenau.

To apply, submit your application online via the provided link, including all required certificates and references. Short-listed candidates will be invited for interviews, potentially conducted online. Applicants are encouraged to review the European Code of Conduct for Recruitment of Researchers before applying.