Doctoral Researcher (Nanophotonics and Meta-Optics)

Karlstad University; Tampere; On-site; EUR 30,466 - 36,493; Full time

Benefits offered by this job

Occupational health care

Flexible working hours

Sports facilities

Cafés with staff discounts

Job summary

Tampere University is seeking a Doctoral Researcher in Nanophotonics and Meta-Optics. This role offers an incredible opportunity to engage in cutting-edge research on controlling light at the nanoscale.

The successful candidate will join the MetaPhotonics Group, contributing to innovative projects in metasurfaces and quantum technologies. A typical starting salary of EUR 3000 per month, along with numerous staff benefits, is offered to support your educational journey.

Qualifications

• Degree that qualifies for doctoral studies with substantial research component.
• Strong academic performance.
• Good team working ability.

Responsibilities

• Conduct research in nanophotonics and meta-optics.
• Develop advanced photonic technologies.
• Participate in training and mentorship programs.

Skills

Problem-solving

Communication skills

Interest in optics

Interest in nanotechnology

Interest in quantum technologies

Education

Master's degree or equivalent in Physics, Photonics, Engineering or related field

Job description

Doctoral Researcher (Nanophotonics and Meta-Optics)

Tampere University is one of the most multidisciplinary universities in Finland. We are building a new model for higher education and research in F...

Tampere Universityand Tampere University of Applied Sciencescreatea unique environment for multidisciplinary,inspirationaland high-impact research and education. Ouruniversitycommunityhas competitive edges in technology, healthand society. www.tuni.fi/en

Within this vibrant setting, the rapidly expanding MetaPhotonics Group at Tampere University explores how light can be controlled at the nanometre scale – smaller than the wavelength of light itself. We are seeking a motivated doctoral researcher to join our team in developing next-generation photonic technologies through metasurfaces, nonlinear nanophotonics, and quantum light–matter interactions. Depending on your interests and background, your doctoral thesis will advance one or more of the following research directions:

• Metasurfaces and meta-optics — ultra-thin optical components replacing conventional lenses and other optical elements and systems.
• Strong-field nanophotonics — generating new colours of light, including extreme-ultraviolet radiation, from nanostructured solids.
• Nanoscale optical isolators — enabling chip‑scale photonic logic and traffic control of light.
• Quantum nanophotonics — creating next‑generation single‑photon sources for quantum communications and harnessing quantum states of light to control chemical and biological processes.

As a Doctoral Researcher, you will receive training and mentorship while developing expertise in one or more of the following areas:

• Computational design — modelling and optimising nanophotonic devices using advanced simulation software and high‑performance computing clusters.
• Nanofabrication — creating devices with nanometre precision in a modern cleanroom facility for advanced semiconductor manufacturing.
• Experimental optics — characterising devices using advanced optical instrumentation, ranging from high‑power ultrafast lasers to single‑photon-sensitive detectors.

The exact balance between theory, nanofabrication, and optical experiments can be tailored to your interests and career goals.

About you

We are looking for a curious and highly motivated student who enjoys solving challenging problems and learning new skills. A successful candidate will have:

• A degree (or near completion of a degree) that qualifies the applicant for doctoral studies at Tampere University in Physics, Photonics, Engineering, or a related field. This may include a Master's degree, an Honours degree, or an equivalent qualification with a substantial research component.
• Strong academic performance.
• Interest in optics, photonics, nanotechnology, or quantum technologies.
• Good communication skills and ability to work both independently and as part of a team.

We offer

The full‑time position will be filled for a fixed‑term period of three (3) years, starting upon mutual agreement. A trial period of six (6) months applies to all our new employees.

The salary will be based on both the job requirements and the employee’s personal performance in accordance with the Finnish University Salary System. A starting salary for Doctoral Researchers is typically around EUR 3000 EUR per month.

The University offers a wide range of staff benefits, such as occupational health care, flexible working hours, excellent sports facilities on campus, and several on‑campus restaurants and cafés with staff discounts.

Application information

Please submit your application through our online recruitment system. The closing date for applications is 16 August 2026 at 23:59 EEST (UTC+2). Interested candidates should submit a single PDF in English that includes:

• Motivation letter describing your background and research interests. Please indicate which research direction interests you most and why.
• Academic transcripts.
• Contact details of two referees.

Job details

Title: Doctoral Researcher (Nanophotonics and Meta-Optics)

Closing date: 16 August 2026 (Europe/Helsinki)