DC 7: Optical Vortex Generation Using Twisted Bilayer Photonic Crystals

Université de Namur; Namen; On-site; EUR 27,000 - 33,000; Full time

Job summary

Université de Namur in Belgium invites applications for a Doctoral Candidate position in the Department of Physics. The project aims to explore the generation of optical vortices carrying orbital angular momentum from twisted photonic crystal structures and to design twisted photonic platforms for robust vortex radiation.

Secondments include 3 months at IMEC for nanofabrication exposure and 6 months at INESC MN (M.

Job description

Doctoral Candidate position at the Department of Physics, University of Namur, Belgium

Objectives: The project will explore the generation of optical vortices carrying orbital angular momentum from twisted photonic crystal structures. The goal is to design twisted photonic crystals to realize robust vortex radiation. Secondments include 3 months at IMEC for nanofabrication exposure and 6 months at INESC MN (M. Piccardo) for structured-light characterization based on off-axis digital holography. By producing robust vortex beams via twisted photonic platforms, the doctoral candidate contributes to one of the research objectives of SPARK , which is to demonstrate metamaterial-enabled structured light generation through controlled angular momentum. Over the course of the thesis, the candidate will develop skills in theoretical modelling and simulation of twisted photonic crystals (UNamur), nanofabrication of photonic structures (IMEC), and structured-light characterization (INESC MN), gained through secondments as well as shared expertise with the whole SPARK doctoral network consortium.

Starting date: February 2027