PhD Position Projection System for TE Imaging in Scanning Electron Microscope (SEM)

TU Delft; Delft; On-site; EUR 34,000 - 43,000; Full time

Job summary

TU Delft in Delft is offering a four-year PhD position within the Gheidari Lab of the MInT Group in the Department of Imaging Physics. You will develop a compact MEMS-based transmission electron projection column to integrate into SEM platforms.

The project blends theory, simulations, MEMS fabrication, and experimental validation, with close collaboration with Delmic and opportunities to publish in international journals and mentor BSc/MSc students.

Qualifications

• MSc degree in Applied Physics, Electrical Engineering or closely related field.
• Demonstrable skills in numerical modeling, simulation, and data analysis.
• Solid understanding of Physics, Optics, Electron Optics, MEMS, experimental physics and microscopy systems.
• Proactive and curious mindset, ability to explore complex problems independently and collaboratively.
• Good command of spoken and written English, as you’ll be working in an internationally diverse community and will write articles and dissertations in English and participate in English-taught courses.
• Enthusiasm for coaching bachelor and master students, and for presenting your work in scientific articles and international conferences.

Skills

Numerical modeling

Simulation

Data analysis

Physics & Optics knowledge

English communication

Mentoring/coaching students

Education

MSc in Applied Physics / Electrical Engineering or related field

Job description

PhD Position: High resolution Transmission Electron Imaging in Scanning Electron Microscopy

Scanning Electron Microscopy (SEM) is one of the most widely used imaging tools in nanoscience, materials research, semiconductor manufacturing, and the life sciences. Despite its wide applications and accessibility, the highest spatial resolution is still obtained through transmission electron (TE) imaging, which can only be done through a large, expensive, and highly specialized (Scanning) Transmission Electron Microscopes ((S)TEM). The aim of this project is to "democratize" this imaging technique by bringing transformative TE techniques, including electron diffraction, low-energy STEM, and phase-contrast imaging, to compact, affordable, and widely accessible SEM platforms. As a PhD candidate at TU Delft, you will work closely with our industrial partner Delmic, a world-leading company in correlative and multimodal microscopy, to develop a proof-of-concept transmission electron projection column based on miniaturized electron-optical components.

The ambition is to create a compact, cost-effective projection system that can be integrated into conventional SEMs, enabling high-resolution transmission imaging alongside complementary modalities such as light microscopy, cathodoluminescence, and focused ion beam processing. By combining the strengths of multiple imaging techniques within a single instrument, this technology has the potential to significantly expand the capabilities and accessibility of electron microscopy. Working at the intersection of electron optics, MEMS technology, microscopy instrumentation, and imaging physics, you will design, simulate, fabricate, and experimentally validate a novel MEMS-based transmission electron projection column integrated inside an SEM. The project combines theoretical modelling, numerical simulations, hardware development, precision engineering, and experimental validation, providing a unique opportunity to contribute to the development of next-generation electron microscopy instrumentation.

The four-year research programme is organized into three main phases. During the first phase, you will develop analytical and numerical models describing the electron optics of the projection column and optimize its performance through large-scale simulations. You will use commercial electron-optical simulation software but also develop custom Python-based modelling tools developed within the project. Your research will be supported by access to DelftBlue, TU Delft's state-of-the-art high-performance computing infrastructure, enabling computationally intensive simulations and optimization. In the second phase, you will work closely with our experienced technical staff to design and realize the electron-optical components. Depending on the final design, these components will be fabricated using advanced MEMS technology, high-precision machining, or a combination of both.

You will gain hands-on experience with state-of-the-art microfabrication and cleanroom facilities, while also contributing to the development of the associated electronics, vacuum hardware, and experimental instrumentation required for the prototype. The final phase focuses on assembling, testing, and validating the prototype inside an SEM. You will compare experimental measurements with numerical predictions to validate the physical models and further optimize the instrument design. Throughout the project, you will work closely with researchers at TU Delft and engineers at Delmic, with opportunities for regular interaction and knowledge exchange between academia and industry. As part of your PhD, you will publish your findings in leading international journals, present your work at major scientific conferences, and contribute to the supervision of BSc and MSc students through laboratory work, tutorials, and research projects.

You will join "the Gheidari Lab" part of the Microscopy Instrumentation and Techniques (MInT) Group within the Department of Imaging Physics at TU Delft.

Job requirements

• An MSc degree in Applied Physics, Electrical Engineering or a closely related field.
• Demonstrable skills in numerical modeling, simulation, and data analysis.
• A solid understanding of Physics, Optics, Electron Optics, MEMS, exeprimenntal physics and microscopy systems.
• A proactive and curious mindset, with the ability to explore complex problems independently and collaboratively.
• A good command of spoken and written English, as you’ll be working in an internationally diverse community. You will also write scientific articles and your dissertation in English and participate in English-taught courses.
• An enthusiasm for coaching bachelor and master students, and for presenting your work in scientific articles and international conferences.

TU Delft (Delft University of Technology)

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

For over 180 years, we have been training engineers who make an impact worldwide in companies, government bodies, or as entrepreneurs. Our alumni turn knowledge into concrete solutions for the challenges of today and tomorrow.

These challenges are changing rapidly. That is why we focus on themes such as energy, climate, digitalisation, artificial intelligence (AI), and smart mobility every day. Our education and research are directly aligned with what society needs now and in the future.

At TU Delft, our people make the difference. With their knowledge and curiosity, our staff provide a 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 join an international community of professionals and students. Together, we create knowledge, innovations, and solutions that help move the world forward.

Faculty Applied Sciences

With more than 1,100 employees, including 150 pioneering principal investigators, as well as a population of about 3,600 passionate students, the Faculty of Applied Sciences is an inspiring scientific ecosystem. Focusing on key enabling technologies, such as quantum- and nanotechnology, photonics, biotechnology, synthetic biology and materials for energy storage and conversion, our faculty aims to provide solutions to important problems of the 21st century. To that end, we educate innovative students in broad Bachelor's and specialistMaster'sprogrammes with a strong researchcomponent. Our scientists conduct ground-breaking fundamental and applied research in the fields of Life and Health Science & Technology, Nanoscience, Chemical Engineering, Radiation Science & Technology, and Engineering Physics. We are also training the next generation of high school teachers.

Conditions of employment

Doctoral candidates will be offered a 4-year period of employment in principle, but in the form of 2 employment contracts. An initial 1,5 year contract with 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.

Salary and benefits are in accordance with the Collective Labour Agreement for Dutch Universities, increasing from €3059 - €3881 gross per month, from the first year to the fourth year based on a fulltime contract (38 hours), plus 8% holiday allowance and an end-of-year bonus of 8.3%.

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

Will you need to relocate to the Netherlands for this job? TU Delft is committed to make your move as smooth as possible! The HR unit, Coming to Delft Service , offers information on their website to help you prepare your relocation. In addition, Coming to Delft Service organises events to help you settle in the Netherlands, and expand your (social) network in Delft. A Dual Career Programme is available, to support your accompanying partner with their job search in the Netherlands.

Faculty/Department: Faculty of Applied Sciences

FTE: 1,0

Submission is possible until: 1 Dec 2026