Postdoctoral Researcher Subwavelength refractive index modulation in 2D slab waveguides

What you will do

From augmented reality devices, over mobile ranging instruments up to global data networks, photonics is the driver for a wide range of applications that fuel the development of our society. We are interested in modulating the index in a two-dimensional waveguide giving us the possibility to control the in-plane light propagation and generate out-of-plane emission patterns. Combined with a high modulation frequency many applications from wide angle beam steering to dynamic multicolour holograms come into reach. For this purpose, imec has developed a backplane to generate subwavelength electric field patterns varying the refractive index in electro-optically active waveguide layers on the same scale.

It is the purpose of this project to build photonic devices with the existing backplane with various electro-optically active materials. For this task you have a background in material processing of solid state and/or solution-based composites. Following the device fabrication, the optical characterization with existing setups is another main task of this project. With your deep knowledge in optics and photonics you modify and improve our optical setups and design new settings according to the requirements. Based on your analytical skills, you plan the next processing steps to improve device performance. Ideally, you have some basic knowledge of optical simulation, e.g., with finite difference time domain methods to model and understand the impact of experimental parameters on the device properties.

Contact person: Dr. Robert Gehlhaar

KU Leuven promotor: Prof. Jan Genoe

What we do for you

We offer you the opportunity to join one of the world’s premier research centers in nanotechnology at its headquarters in Leuven, Belgium. With your talent, passion and expertise, you’ll become part of a team that makes the impossible possible. Together, we shape the technology that will determine the society of tomorrow.

We are committed to being an inclusive employer and proud of our open, multicultural, and informal working environment with ample possibilities to take initiative and show responsibility. We commit to supporting and guiding you in this process; not only with words but also with tangible actions. Through imec.academy, 'our corporate university', we actively invest in your development to further your technical and personal growth.

We are aware that your valuable contribution makes imec a top player in its field. Your energy and commitment are therefore appreciated by means of a 2-year contract with a market appropriate salary and benefits.

Who you are

We are looking for a candidate with a hands-on background in optics and ideally also in device fabrication. A good understanding of photonics, micro/nano-optics, thin film devices, the related material properties is essential while, experience in device processing is a plus. You are highly motivated, willing to tackle the challenges of bringing thin film light modulators to the next level.

• You have a PhD degree in physics, optical engineering, nanotechnology, materials sciences or equivalent.
• We are looking for your hands-on knowledge to build and modify optical setups, characterize photonic devices and the subsequently evaluate the data in a systematic way.
• Know-how of optics simulation methods and software experience (LUMERICAL, HFSS, COMSOL) is a plus.
• We appreciate your initiative and independent work attitude, while being part of a team. You can also guide and motivate team members in their work.
• You are creative and like to think with the team to solve problems.
• We value your drive for results and ability to meet stringent deadlines with quality output.
• You are flexible to accept new tasks in the future, and to evolve together with the changing R&D demands of our high-tech environment.
• The imec environment requires a good team player with good communication and reporting skills. Given the international character of imec, knowledge of English is mandatory.
• With our postdoctoral research program, we target to bring in external knowledge and skills. Therefore, we are looking for candidates who did not stay or work/study in Belgium for more than 24 months in the past 3 years (short stays such as holiday, participation in conferences, etc. are not taken into account).
• As we want to invest in young researchers, we are targeting freshly graduated PhD students or with max 4 years of research experience after PhD.