PhD Position: Photonic Integrated Akinetic Dispersive Tuned Laser at NIR wavelengths for OCT applications Munster Technological University in Ireland

Munster Technological University’s CAPPA Centre in Cork, Ireland is recruiting a PhD student to join its Nanophotonics group working on advanced integrated lasers and imaging. The project focuses on photonic integrated circuits for optical coherence tomography (OCT), with particular emphasis on developing and applying high-speed, compact akinetic dispersive laser (ADL) sources operating at 840 nm and 1060 nm.

The research is part of INTEGRAL (Integrated Photonics for Signal Processing and Lasers towards the Next Generation Optical Coherence Tomography), an EIC Pathfinder Open project funded through Horizon Europe / the European Union under Grant No. 101258419. The consortium includes Munster Technological University (coordinator), Tyndall National Institute, the University of Kent, and CenterVue (Italy). The successful candidate will work across fundamental science and industry-driven photonics research, with access to CAPPA and Tyndall National Institute facilities.

The PhD project combines theory and experiment and is designed to provide strong research training and career development. The student will assist with fabrication in Tyndall’s clean room, be trained in advanced measurement and characterisation at MTU, contribute to heterogeneous integration of active components onto silicon nitride (SiN) photonic integrated circuits, and characterise ADL-PIC lasers. The role also includes reporting, research dissemination, and participation in publications, conference presentations, outreach, and collaborative research activities.

Applicants should have, or be close to completing, a Master’s degree in physics, electrical engineering, photonics, optics, or a closely related field. A first or upper second-class honours degree, strong motivation for laser physics and photonic integration, good laboratory skills, and fluency in English are important. Experience with optical characterisation, laser systems, semiconductor fabrication, simulations, programming, photonic CAD tools, or OCT/biomedical imaging will be an advantage.

Funding is provided in the form of a tax-free PhD stipend of €25,000 per annum, with university fees covered up to €5,500 per year. The project also offers access to state-of-the-art facilities, cleanroom training, conference and workshop opportunities, a collaborative environment, and a personal career development plan.

The deadline for applications is 15 August 2026 at 13:00 (Europe/Dublin). Candidates should email their CV and cover letter to Dr. Chinna Devarapu at [email protected].