Postdoctoral Researcher – Optomechanical Systems for 5G and Beyond International Iberian Nanotechnology Laboratory in Portugal

The International Iberian Nanotechnology Laboratory (INL) in Braga, Portugal, is seeking a Postdoctoral Researcher to join the Sotomayor Research Group for a 12-month, full-time position focused on optomechanical systems for 5G and beyond. The group, led by Professor Sotomayor Torres, is internationally recognized for its research in nanophononics, including nano-scale thermal transport, phononic crystals, optomechanics, thermoelectricity, acoustic metamaterials, topological bosonics, and nanoelectromechanical systems (NOEMS). The successful candidate will work under the MAGNIFIC project, which is funded by Horizon Europe, and will collaborate with a dynamic team engaged in several high-profile European research initiatives.

The main responsibilities include characterizing photonic-phononic semiconductor metamaterial devices using a near-field fibre probing optomechanics setup, planning and executing experimental research, analyzing data, and publishing results. The researcher will also contribute to group activities, participate in methodology development, disseminate findings at conferences and in publications, and assist with equipment maintenance and IT/safety compliance. Applicants must have a PhD in Solid State Physics or a closely related field.

Essential technical skills include familiarity with photonic crystals and metasurfaces, proficiency in advanced electro-opto-mechanical characterization techniques, and experience with sophisticated optical instrumentation (such as optical cavities, beam scanning, imaging, CW/pulsed laser systems, two-laser Raman thermometry, frequency and time domain thermoreflectance, and ultrafast/nonlinear spectroscopy). Experience with electro-optical signal acquisition and processing, noise and dissipation mechanisms, and COMSOL simulations is highly valued. Candidates should possess excellent English language skills, a hands-on approach, strong problem-solving abilities, customer orientation, and the ability to work both independently and as part of a team. INL offers a competitive salary, tax benefits, private health insurance, family allowances, free nursery service (subject to availability), support for dependent children's education fees, relocation support, and 30 working days of annual leave.

The application process is entirely online and requires submission of a cover letter, CV, academic/professional diplomas, and at least one reference letter. The selection process includes eligibility checks, CV assessment, interviews (which may be conducted online or onsite), and final nomination. INL is committed to equal opportunity and non-discrimination.

For more information about INL and the Sotomayor Research Group, visit http://www.inl.int.