PhD Position Metaoptics for Space Applications

Delft University of Technology; Delft; On-site; EUR 32,400 - 46,800; Full time

Benefits offered by this job

Customisable compensation package

Discount on health insurance

Monthly work costs contribution

Flexible work schedules

Job summary

Delft University of Technology in the Netherlands seeks a highly motivated PhD candidate to join the INTERPRETER project, developing next‑generation compact hyperspectral spectropolarimetric cameras for Earth observation and environmental monitoring.

The role combines nanooptics, photonic crystals design and detector integration, with experimental and theoretical work, in collaboration with SRON Space Research Organisation Netherlands.

Qualifications

• Strong Master's degree in Physics, Applied Physics, Photonics, Nanotechnology or related field.
• Knowledge of nanooptics, photonic crystals, inverse design and imaging systems.
• Experience with optical characterization, nanofabrication or detector technology is an advantage.
• Excellent communication skills and ability to work in an interdisciplinary team.

Responsibilities

• Design and fabricate photonic crystals and integrate detectors.
• Perform optical testing and performance evaluation of the camera system.
• Collaborate with SRON Space Research Organisation Netherlands and TU Delft teams.

Skills

Nanooptics

Photonic crystals

Inverse design

Imaging systems

English proficiency

Education

Master's degree in Physics or Applied Physics, Photonics, Nanotechnology or related field

Tools

Nanofabrication

Optical characterization

Job description

Are you passionate about nanooptics, outer space and would you like to work towards advancing the monitoring of atmospheric constituents such as greenhouse gases? We seek formidable students to design detector-integrated photonic crystals for this endeavour.

Job description

We are seeking a highly motivated PhD candidate to join the INTERPRETER project, an interdisciplinary research initiative focused on the development of next-generation compact hyperspectral spectropolarimetric cameras. Hyperspectral imaging enables simultaneous acquisition of spatial and spectral information, supporting applications in earth observation, semiconductor metrology, agriculture, medical imaging, industrial inspection, and environmental monitoring. Current detector technologies face limitations in spectral coverage, imaging speed, scalability, cost, and CMOS compatibility. The INTERPRETER project aims to overcome these challenges by employing photonic crystal-based spectropolarimetric filter arrays.

The project will advance novel imaging technologies capable of delivering compact, high-performance instruments for satellite-based aerosol monitoring, climate research, and industrial sensing applications.

Ideally, the candidate should have a strong background in optics/nanoptics, both experimentally as well as theoretically. Tasks involve the design and manufacturing of photonic crystals, detector integration, and optical testing. The INTERPRETER project will be in collaboration with SRON Space Research Organisation Netherlands, where parts of the experimental work will also take place.

Job requirements

Applicants should have the following qualifications:

• A strong Master's degree in Physics or Applied Physics, Photonics, Nanotechnology, Engineering or a related field.
• Knowledge of nanooptics, photonic crystals, inverse design, photonics, imaging systems, and optionally semiconductor devices and optoelectronics.
• Experience with optical characterization, nanofabrication, computational imaging, or detector technology is an advantage.
• Strong analytical and problem-solving skills.
• Excellent communication skills and proficiency in English.
• Ability to work independently and collaboratively in an interdisciplinary research environment.

TU Delft (Delft University of Technology)

Working at TU Delft means contributing to solutions that really make a difference.

At TU Delft, our people make the difference. With their knowledge and curiosity, our staff provide high-quality education and conduct pioneering research that extends beyond the campus. You will have the opportunity to take the initiative, work with others, and grow as a professional.

Working at TU Delft means joining an international community of professionals and students. Together, we create knowledge, innovations, and solutions that help move the world forward.

Faculty Mechanical Engineering

ME is a dynamic and innovative faculty with high-tech lab facilities and international reach. It27s a large faculty but also versatile, so unique connections can often be made by combining different disciplines.

Conditions of employment

Doctoral candidates will be offered a 4-year period of employment in principle, in the form of 2 employment contracts. An initial 1.5 year contract includes an official go/no go progress assessment within 15 months, followed by an additional contract for the remaining 2.5 years assuming everything goes well and performance requirements are met.

As a PhD candidate you will be enrolled in the TU Delft Graduate School. The TU Delft Graduate School provides an inspiring research environment with an excellent team of supervisors, academic staff and a mentor. The Doctoral Education Programme is aimed at developing your transferable, discipline-related and research skills.

TU Delft offers a customisable compensation package, discounts on health insurance, and a monthly work costs contribution. Flexible work schedules can be arranged.