Assistant Professor in integrated photonics
We are looking for an Assistant Professor in integrated photonics to join the Faculty of Science & Technology and the MESA+ Institute at the University of Twente.
You are expected to establish a strong research program and to contribute to NLNP’s internationally recognized research on integrated photonics for applications in microwave photonics, advanced optical sources, communications, sensing, and emerging quantum technologies
We invite applicants with expertise in two or more of the following areas:
- Brillouin optomechanics and phononics,
- Integrated laser and optical frequency combs,
- Optical atomic clocks and quantum sensors,
- Nonlinear optics, experimental and modelling,
- Fabrication of low-loss integrated photonic platforms,
- Programmable photonics and optical computing.
As an Assistant Professor you will
- Develop an internationally recognized research program on integrated photonics, with a particular focus on nonlinear and optomechanical interactions of light with matter
- Teach courses in photonics, optics, physics, nanotechnology, and related engineering disciplines;
- Developing and innovating educational programmes and course content;
- Supervising Bachelor's, Master's, and PhD students, as well as postdoctoral researchers; Mentoring early-career researchers and fostering a collaborative and inclusive research environment.
- Acquire research funding from national and European programs (e.g., NWO, Horizon Europe, ERC)
You are expected to hold a University Teaching Qualification (UTQ) or be willing to obtain this qualification within the agreed timeframe.
In this role, you will contribute to the ambition of the Dutch national Beethoven program to attract and educate top talent in the field of photonics and semiconductor.
In line with the University of Twente's entrepreneurial spirit, you actively seek opportunities to translate scientific discoveries into societal and economic impact. Your research activities are expected to contribute to technological innovation in fields such as:
- Quantum sensing based on integrated photonics
- Precision measurements for advanced manufacturing
- Optical computing and photonics for AI
- Radar, sensing, and space applications;
- Spectrum management, advanced signal processing, and communications.
You will engage with academic, industrial, and societal partners to promote knowledge transfer, innovation, and the development of technologies that address real-world challenges.
Your profile
- Hold a PhD degree in Photonics, Physics, Electrical Engineering or a related field;
- Has a clear and distinct research vision and is able to formulate that and execute strategically;
- A strong track record of scientific achievement demonstrated through high quality publications, prizes, patents and/or grant
- The ability to develop an independent and internationally competitive research programme;
- Demonstrated potential to attract competitive research funding;
- Has strong passion for teaching and is committed to educating and mentoring the next generation of scientists and engineers;
- Is committed to delivering high-quality education across a broad range of photonics-related subjects, including nonlinear optics, laser physics, and integrated photonics;
- Good communication skills and an excellent command of English.
Our offer
- A full-time position for 18 months, with the intention for a contract extension for an indefinite period of time.
- Your salary and associated conditions are in accordance with the collective labour agreement for Dutch universities (CAO-NU).
- You will receive a gross monthly salary ranging from € 4.925,- to € 7.573,- (salary scale 11 or 12) based on your experience.
- There are excellent benefits including a holiday allowance of 8% of the gross annual salary, an end-of-year bonus of 8.3%, and a solid pension scheme.
- A minimum of 232 leave hours in case of full-time employment based on a formal workweek of 38 hours. A full-time employment in practice means 40 hours a week, therefore resulting in 96 extra leave hours on an annual basis.
- Free access to sports facilities on campus.
- A family-friendly institution that offers parental leave (both paid and unpaid).
- Excellent career support and courses for your professional and personal development.
Applications should include the following documents
- Cover letter in which you describe your motivation and qualifications for the position.
- Curriculum vitae, including a list of your publications and the contact information of two references.
- Description of your scientific achievements and research plan for the coming five years (max 2 pages).
- Statement of your relevant teaching experience and goals for the coming five years (max 2 pages).
Please submit your application via this link before 16 November.
If you would like more information, please contact: Prof. David Marpaung, david.marpaung@utwente.nl
PhD and postdoc positions
We have several open positions for postdoctoral researchers and PhD candidates to join our team.
Application procedure
Applicants are encouraged to discuss the projects with Prof. David Marpaung, prior to submitting applications.
Your profile
We are looking for highly motivated candidates with a background in photonics, physics, electronic engineering, or closely related areas. In particular, experience in one or more of the following topics is desired:
- Fabrication of photonic and piezoelectric materials, for example, silicon, silicon nitride, aluminum nitride, lithium niobate.
- Nonlinear optics in particular stimulated Brillouin scattering (SBS).
- Experimental work on microwave photonics and optical communication systems.
- Modelling or experimental work on lasers and optical frequency combs.
- Experimental work on optical fiber devices, for example, photonic crystal fiber, tapered fiber.
- Familiarity with optical simulation software including COMSOL, Lumerical, Phoenix Optodesigner.
Our offer
- PhD positions for four years, full time with a probationary period of one year with a starting salary of € 3.059,- in the first year and a salary of € 3.881,- in the fourth year gross per month
- Postdoc positions with an initial duration of two years and gross salary between € 3.546,- and € 5.538,- per month, depending on experience and qualifications
- Excellent mentorship, a stimulating research environment, and world-class research facilities
- Close collaboration with photonic industries in the Netherlands
- Various professional and personal development programs
Applications should include the following documents
- A a one-page motivation why you want to apply for this position and to join the group
- A detailed CV (resume) with a publication list
- An academic transcript of B.Sc. and M.Sc. education
- Details and contact of at least two academic referees
Please submit your application via email to nlnp-tnw@utwente.nl.