PhD: Hollow Core Fibers: Enabling Optical Links for 6G/Quantum Networks

Research Institutes of Sweden; Town of Sweden (NY); On-site; USD 41,602 - 55,469; Full time

Job summary

RISE Research Institutes of Sweden seeks a motivated doctoral student to advance knowledge in photonics at the Kista High-Speed Transmission Lab and Elecrum cleanroom. You will conduct independent research, collaborate with supervisors and partners, and actively participate in a vibrant academic community.

The role includes publishing results in high-quality venues, contributing to ongoing projects, and teaching activities.

Qualifications

• Master’s degree in engineering physics, photonics, quantum or related field.
• Strong lab skills and hands-on experimentation.
• Ability to contribute to both research and teaching activities.

Responsibilities

• Develop and characterize HCF-based optical systems, targeting data rates beyond 200 Gbps and multi-band 6G/quantum transport.
• Explore integration of HCF with modulators and Quantum Photonic Integrated Circuits (QPICs) for ultra-low-latency, low-dispersion systems.
• Collaborate with RISE, Umeå University, and Swedish industry to design and test next‑generation optical transceivers and x-haul solutions.
• Disseminate research findings through publications, conferences, and outreach to highlight project significance.

Skills

Lab skills

Data analysis

Hands-on experimentation

Education

Master’s degree in engineering physics/photonic/quantum

Tools

LabVIEW

C++

MATLAB

Job description

About us

RISE Research Institutes of Sweden i s Sweden's research institute and innovation partner. In international collaboration with companies, academia, and the public sector, we contribute to a competitive business and a sustainable society. Our 3000 employees run and support all types of innovation processes. RISE is an independent, state-of-the-art research institute that offers unique expertise and around 130 test and demonstration environments for future-proof technologies, products, and services. Both applied research and long-term fundamental research activities are in line with RISE future strategy since the latter has the potential to revolutionize the industry with game-changing research findings from the bottom of the research value chain.

At RISE, we support and encourage researchers’ independent as well as collaborative initiatives. Kista High-Speed Transmission lab and Elecrum cleanroom have excellent facilities for advanced Ph.D. student education and meeting real-life engineering design criteria. Part of the RISE strategy is to continue strengthening its collaboration with academia. We believe that it is an excellent opportunity to conduct high-quality academic research and a common student is an effective mechanism leading to mutual benefits.

Why Join RISE and HCF-6G/Quantum?

• Access to state-of-the-art facilities, including the optical fiber draw tower at RISE Hudiksvall and the Kista High-Speed Transmission Lab and Electrum cleanroom.
• A collaborative environment with world‑class partners, offering exposure to real‑world challenges and cutting‑edge solutions.
• An open and inclusive culture, emphasizing a balance between professional and personal life, with a strong commitment to diversity and gender equality.

About the role

We are seeking a motivated and curious doctoral student to join our research environment and contribute to advancing knowledge within the field. In this position, you will engage in cutting‑edge research, work closely with supervisors and collaborators, and actively participate in a dynamic academic community.

The role includes conducting independent research, contributing to ongoing projects, publishing results in high‑quality scientific venues, and participating in teaching and departmental activities. You will have access to strong supervision, a collaborative network, and opportunities for professional development.

This is an excellent opportunity for candidates who are eager to develop their research skills, deepen their expertise, and make meaningful contributions to both academia and society.

Your responsibilites:

• Develop and characterize HCF-based optical systems, targeting data rates beyond 200 Gbps and supporting multi‑band 6G and or quantum transport solutions.
• Explore integration of HCF and modulator, Quantum Photonic Integrated Circuits (QPICs) technologies for ultra‑low‑latency, low‑dispersion communication systems.
• Collaborate with partners at RISE, Umeå University, and leading Swedish industry players to design and test next‑generation optical transceiver technologies and x‑haul solutions.
• Actively disseminate research findings through scientific publications, conferences, and public outreach to promote understanding of the project’s significance.

Who are you?

In order to be admitted for PhD studies at third‑cycle level at Umeå University the applicant is required to have completed a second‑cycle level degree or least 240 credits of courses, of which at least 60 credits are at second‑cycle level, or have an equivalent education from another educational system, or equivalent qualifications.

To fulfil the specific entry requirements to be admitted for studies at third‑cycle level in applied physics, the applicant must have completed courses of at least 120 credits within the field of physics or other related subject areas considered to be relevant for the project.

The requirements must be fulfilled at the time of admission to postgraduate education and need not be met at the time of application.

Desired Background

• A Master’s degree in engineering physics, photonics, quantum or a related field.
• Strong lab skills are particularly important, as a significant portion of the research will involve hands‑on experimentation at the Kista High‑Speed Transmission Lab.

Meritorious

• Prior experience in optical communication systems.
• Knowledge of programming (e.g., LabView, C++, MATLAB) for experimental setups and data analysis.
• Understanding of semiconductor device technologies and system‑level integration.

Are we right for each other?

At RISE, we like different and we are convinced that diversity contributes to an innovative environment where we together challenge boundaries and develop new knowledge for the future. With us, passionate problem solvers meet to solve some of the world’s most important, and perhaps fun, problems. We can not promise you an easy job, but what we can promise you is a bunch of committed colleagues and some really exciting societal and industrial challenges to tackle. You will work in a dynamic environment that gives you development opportunities both professionally and personally. With us, you get the opportunity to make a real difference. Welcome to the entire Swedish research institute and innovation partners!

Welcome with Your Application!

For more information, please contact Linda Johansson, Unit manager, at [e-mail] or Qin Wang, supervisor, at [e-mail]. The last application date is august 16th. Selection and interviews will be conducted continuously during and after the application period. Apply without cover letter.

Our union representatives are Ingemar Petermann, SACO, [phone] and Linda Ikatti, Unionen, [phone].