PhD in first-time-right design tools for multi-optics imaging systems Vrije Universiteit Brussel (VUB) in Belgium

The Vrije Universiteit Brussel (VUB) is offering a full-time PhD scholarship within the Faculty of Engineering, Department Toegepaste natuurkunde en fotonica, and the Brussels Photonics (B-PHOT) research group. The project is part of HARMONY_SBO, a 48-month strategic basic research effort funded by Flanders Make with industrial user-group involvement. The research aims to develop first-time-right design tools for multi-optics imaging systems and to enable robust, compact, cost-effective optical vision systems for harsh-condition applications.

The PhD will focus on designing multi-optics imaging systems that combine multiple optical channels onto a single sensor, targeting higher dynamic range, broader spectral coverage, and multi-polarization capability. These systems are intended for use in product inspection and navigation, especially in challenging environments where conventional vision systems struggle with limited spectral range, limited dynamic range, or polarization diversity. A key objective is to build a flexible toolbox and methodology for designing and assembling robust broadband imaging modules that can later be validated on generic industrial use cases.

The successful candidate will work in an interdisciplinary environment with optical engineers, system engineers, and AI researchers. In addition to optical design and simulation, the project includes close collaboration on AI-based image and video processing pipelines tailored to these novel systems. The position offers access to advanced simulation tools, design software, and prototyping infrastructure within the B-PHOT group at VUB, an internationally recognized photonics team with expertise in first-time-right design of freeform-optics-based systems.

Applicants should hold, or be close to completing, a Master's degree in Electrical Engineering, Physics, Photonics, or a related field. Strong knowledge of photonics, optical design, and numerical simulation is expected, especially ray-tracing. Programming ability, particularly in Python or similar languages, is a plus, as are skills in CAD/CAE, opto-mechanics, polarization filtering, and spectral filtering. English proficiency at CEFR C1 level or equivalent is required, and the role may involve travel for conferences and project-related activities.

The position is based at the Brussels Humanities, Sciences & Engineering Campus (Elsene) in Brussels, Belgium. The scholarship is initially for 12 months and may be extended up to 48 months depending on positive evaluation of doctoral progress. The planned start date is 1 November 2026. Applications must be submitted through the VUB jobs portal by 23 September 2026, with a CV, motivation letter, and diploma upload required.