PhD in photonics: Microcombs for coherent optical communications

The Photonics laboratory at the Microtechnology and Nanoscience Department (MC2) is a dynamic and creative group with about 30 members working in an international and collaborative atmosphere. We perform both curiosity-driven and applied-research in the areas of silicon photonics, optoelectronics, nonlinear optics and fiber optic systems. We enjoy a state-of-the-art laboratory for fiber-optic communications and have access to in-house cleanroom facilities to manufacture photonic devices.

Information about the project
Today’s fiber-optic communication systems form the backbone of the Internet but are facing significant challenges with regards to energy consumption. To counteract this, lightwave communication systems will increasingly rely on photonic integrated circuits (PICs). PICs bring many beneficial features such as miniaturization, stability and the possibility for low-cost fabrication. They will be crucial in the future for establishing greener and faster communication links.

This project will investigate an emerging technology called microresonator frequency comb (or microcomb). A microcomb has the astonishing property of generating hundreds of optical frequencies in a microphotonic chip when illuminated with a single-frequency laser and is a strong contender for wavelength division multiplexing. This project envisions entering a new era in optical communications, where the phase coherence of microcombs is fully capitalized. From a fundamental view, this project addresses the overarching research question of whether microcomb technology can reach a level of stability similar to standard, high-performance but bulky, frequency combs. Currently, there is a large gap in knowledge as to what are the ultimate levels in phase coherence that can be attained with microcombs and whether these limits can be attained with integrated photonics technology. The project is partly financed by the Knut and Wallenberg foundation and the Swedish Research Council.

Major responsibilities
The work involves numerical modeling, testing of microcombs and validation in the context of fiber-optic communication systems. You will have plenty of room to develop and contribute with your own ideas. Part of the devices will be fabricated in the world-class nanofabrication facilities at Chalmers. We will also collaborate with colleagues at Chalmers at the Department of Electrical Engineering.

The majority of your working time is devoted to your own research project. In addition, the position will normally include 10% departmental work, mostly teaching duties.

Qualifications
To qualify as a PhD student, you must have a master's level degree in Applied Physics, Engineering Physics, Electrical Engineering or similar. Experience with photonic integrated circuits (either simulation, fabrication or testing) and fiber-optic communication systems is a merit. The position requires sound verbal and written communication skills in English.

Contract terms
Full-time temporary employment. The position is limited to a maximum of 5 years.

We offer
Chalmers offers a cultivating and inspiring working environment in the coastal city of Gothenburg. 
Read more about working at Chalmers and our benefits for employees.

Chalmers aims to actively improve our gender balance. We work broadly with equality projects, for example the GENIE Initiative on gender equality for excellence. Equality and diversity are substantial foundations in all activities at Chalmers.

Application procedure
The application should be marked with Ref 20220063 and written in English. The application should be sent electronically and be attached as pdf-files, as below:

CV: (Please name the document: CV, Family name, Ref. number)
• CV
• Other, for example previous employments or leadership qualifications and positions of trust.
• Two references that we can contact.

Personal letter: (Please name the document as: Personal letter, Family name, Ref. number)
1-3 pages where you:
• Introduce yourself
• Describe your previous experience of relevance for the position (e.g. education, thesis work and, if applicable, any other research activities)
• Describe your future goals and future research focus

Other documents:
• Copies of bachelor and/or master’s thesis.
• Attested copies and transcripts of completed education, grades and other certificates, e.g. TOEFL test results.

Please use the button at the foot of the page to reach the application form. The files may be compressed (zipped).

Application deadline: 15 March 2022. 

For questions, please contact:
Professor Victor Torres Company, Microtechnology and Nanoscience, Photonics Laboratory
Email: torresv@chalmers.se

*** Chalmers declines to consider all offers of further announcement publishing or other types of support for the recruiting process in connection with this position. *** 
   



Chalmers University of Technology conducts research and education in engineering sciences, architecture, technology-related mathematical sciences, natural and nautical sciences, working in close collaboration with industry and society. The strategy for scientific excellence focuses on our six Areas of Advance; Energy, Health Engineering, Information and Communication Technology, Materials Science, Production and Transport. The aim is to make an active contribution to a sustainable future using the basic sciences as a foundation and innovation and entrepreneurship as the central driving forces. Chalmers has around 11,000 students and 3,000 employees. New knowledge and improved technology have characterised Chalmers since its foundation in 1829, completely in accordance with the will of William Chalmers and his motto: Avancez!