PhD Scholarship in Applied Physics: Neuromorphic Photonics and Ising Machines Vrije Universiteit Brussel in Belgium

The Vrije Universiteit Brussel (VUB) invites applications for a PhD position in Applied Physics, focusing on Neuromorphic Photonics and Ising machines. This opportunity is part of the Belgian-funded FWO project “Integrated Photonic Ising Machines,” and is based within the Faculty of Sciences and Bioengineering Sciences, Department of Physics. The research aims to develop innovative optical computing devices capable of solving complex combinatorial problems, which are prevalent in fields such as logistics, finance, and pharmaceutical research.

Traditional digital computers often require significant energy and time to solve these problems. The project seeks to create a new platform of analog hardware accelerators—Ising machines—that can efficiently address computationally difficult tasks. These machines leverage the lowest energy state of a dynamical system to find solutions, but their practical implementation faces challenges in bandwidth, scalability, and stability. Photonics, with its inherent parallelism and high speed, offers a promising pathway to overcome these limitations.

As a PhD student, you will design photonic integrated circuits for Ising machines, participate in hands-on workshops, and attend international conferences and outreach activities. The research is experimental, numerical, and theoretical, and you will collaborate closely with teams from both VUB and Ghent University. The position is structured as a cotutelle PhD, meaning you will be jointly supervised by two groups, conduct research at both institutions, and receive a degree from each. This arrangement fosters efficient exchange of ideas and comprehensive exposure to all aspects of the project.

The Brussels Humanities, Sciences & Engineering Campus (Elsene) will serve as your home base. The doctoral grant is provided through the FWO project, ensuring financial support throughout your studies. Applicants should have a background in Physics, Electronics, or Photonics, and are encouraged to work on multiple aspects of the project, including experimental implementation and theoretical analysis.

To apply, submit your application via the university's job portal, including your CV and cover letter. Highlight your relevant background and ensure you meet the eligibility requirements for the cotutelle arrangement. This is an excellent opportunity to engage in cutting-edge research and develop skills in a collaborative, international environment.