Postdoc: Inverse Design of Broadband Multi-Parameter Nanophotonic Sensors
The Photonic Forces group at AMOLF invites applications for a postdoctoral position focused on the inverse design of broadband multi-parameter nanophotonic sensors. This interdisciplinary project aims to advance next-generation optical sensing technologies by developing novel theoretical and numerical methods for the inverse design of nanophotonic structures, enabling broadband and multiparameter sensing in fiber-based systems. The research is a collaboration between AMOLF, TU Eindhoven, and industrial partners, targeting a new paradigm in nanophotonic fiber sensing for real-time monitoring of physical quantities such as pressure, temperature, and acceleration.
Modern industry faces challenges in distinguishing various physical quantities using optical sensors due to high costs and complexity. This project addresses these challenges by creating broadband nanophotonic sensors capable of disentangling multiple parameters from complex optical spectra. Fundamental questions include how information about parameters is optimally encoded and retrieved from light, how multimode photonic systems respond to mechanical and thermal perturbations, and what sets the ultimate precision limits of such measurements. The postdoc will develop theoretical models and inverse design strategies for optomechanical nanophotonic transducers, engineer their spectral response for multiparameter sensing, and implement advanced computational design methods to realize optimal structures. The work connects fundamental concepts in nanophotonics and measurement theory to the development of new sensing technologies, in close collaboration with experimental researchers and industrial partners.
The Photonic Forces team, led by Professor Ewold Verhagen, studies light-matter interactions at the nanoscale in devices ranging from photonic crystals and metamaterials to high-quality optical resonators. The group investigates fundamental physics associated with these interactions, enhanced through optical field confinement in tailored nanophotonic systems, and explores applications that allow measurement and control of light and motion down to fundamental limits. Theory and experiment are closely integrated in the group’s projects, and there is a strong focus on the professional development of junior researchers and fostering collaborations within AMOLF and beyond. The group values diversity and inclusivity, providing an open and collaborative environment for hands-on learning and personal growth.
AMOLF is part of NWO-I and conducts leading fundamental research on the physics of complex forms of matter, aiming to create new functional materials in partnership with academia and industry. The institute is located at Amsterdam Science Park and employs about 140 researchers and 80 support staff. For more information about the group and institute, visit
www.optomechanics.nl
and
www.amolf.nl
.
The position is a full-time appointment (40 hours/week) for 1.5 years, with a salary starting at 4,552 Euros gross per month (scale 10, CAO-OI) and a range of employment benefits. AMOLF assists foreign postdocs with housing and visa applications, and compensates transport and furnishing expenses. The working atmosphere is informal, with short lines of communication and a young, enthusiastic, and international team. Applications are encouraged from candidates with a doctoral degree in physics or engineering, relevant experience in nanophotonic theory and/or automated design approaches, and a collaborative spirit. AMOLF is committed to equality, diversity, and inclusion, and welcomes applicants from all backgrounds.
To apply, submit your application online via the provided link by May 28, 2026. Online screening may be part of the selection process. For further information, contact Professor Ewold Verhagen at
[email protected]
.
