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PhD Position in the European Doctoral Training Network (DTN) HiPoVor - Stuttgart

Universität Stuttgart - Institut für Technische Optik

Raum Stuttgart

Dein Job

Fabrication of large area grating-based polarisation converters operating in Reflection.

The Institute of Applied Optics (ITO) at the University of Stuttgart has a strong background in optical metrology, diffractive optics, optics simulation and design. In this project, the researcher will explore high-resolution interference lithography processes for the generation of polarization converters with diffraction-limited performance. This includes research on the optimal lithography process. Here, piecewise interference lithography will be investigated, the so called SMILE-process (Stepped Mask Interference Lithography Exposure).

Objectives:

(1) Investigation on the effect of piecewise linear approximation and boundary effects;

(2) Design and realisation of SMILE setup adaptions for large polarisation converters;

(3) Process development (lithography and etching) for large SMILE polarisation converters;

(4) Investigation of imaging SMILE (iSMILE) concept for minimizing edge area.

Planned secondment(s):

(1) University Warsaw, Poland: Secondment to investigate hot embossing technology for the polarization converters.

(2) TOPAG, Germany: Characterisation of polarisation converters.

(3) ELI-NP (Extreme Light Infrastructure), Romania: Application of converters in high-power laser systems.

Specific requirements: We are looking for candidates with an excellent master’s degree in optics, photonics, mechanical or electric engineering, physics, Mathematics or comparable. Solid knowledge of optics and its applications. Basic programming skills in Python, C++ and/or Matlab are required. Good understanding of optics simulation, lithography and cleanroom processes (coating, etching, interference lithography) beneficial. We offer a PhD position in an open, cooperative atmosphere where initiative and own ideas are highly welcome.

Dein Profil

Offer Requirements, Skills and Qualifications

Must be able to communicate fluently in English, in oral and written form.
Willingness to travel for secondments and collaborative activities within the HiPoVor network.

Eligibility criteria: There are strict eligibility requirements within Marie Skłodowska-Curie Doctoral Networks. At the time of appointment, applicants must not have resided or carried out their main activity (work, studies) in the country for more than 12 months in the 3 years immediately before their appointment; AND shall also be in the first four years of their research careers at the time of appointment and have not been awarded a doctoral degree.

Applicants will need to submit to bewerbungen@ito.uni-stuttgart.de the following information:

Brief description of why the applicant wishes to become a PhD student within HiPoVor (Letter of motivation).
Copy of transcripts and of their degree, and a copy of master's thesis and any other publications (if available).
Curriculum vitae of three pages maximum.
Two written recommendation letters (e.g. one by the former Master thesis supervisor and their referees contact details).