PhD Student Scalable Modulator Technology for Integrated Photonics

The Fraunhofer Society is one of the world's leading organisations for application-oriented research. 75 institutes develop groundbreaking technologies for our economy and society – more precisely: 32 000 people from technology, science, administration and IT. You know, who comes to Fraunhofer wants and can change something. For yourself, for us and the markets of today and tomorrow. Our research group Photonic Integrated Circuits (PIC) develops new photonic platforms and cooperates closely with the University of Duisburg-Essen (EBS, Integrated Photonics). We combine existing technologies with newly created (meta) materials and integrate our photonic circuits seamlessly with electronics. In this environment, we develop new materials that demonstrate optoelectronic properties. Our use cases include the development of interferometric systems and neuromorphic photonics to enable data centers for AI in the future with environmentally friendly, low energy consumption. The aim of the doctoral thesis is to investigate and test novel materials for the development of active photonic modulators which are used in scalable quantum systems. A central aspect is the integration and comprehensive characterization of these materials, in particular with regard to their suitability for piezo- or electro-optical modulators. Their work contributes significantly to enabling new technology modules that are faster, less lossy and more powerful. Efficient photonic systems require innovative modulator systems, whose realization and proof of function will take place for the first time in the course of your three-year doctorate. The work is firmly embedded in a central research topic of the group.

First of all, look at the state of science and develop the theoretical foundations. As part of your research, you will focus on new materials for integrated photonic modulators and circuits based on post-CMOS photonic technology platforms based on silicon nitride and aluminum nitride waveguides. Based on this, you simulate photonic components, for example, by means of Lumerical and develop novel active components, in particular modulators, through the targeted use and integration of new (meta) materials for maximizing nonlinearity and modulation efficiency. After the concept phase, you develop new modules for processing to integrate (new) meta-materials in our in-house clean room and combine them with existing manufacturing technology. In close cooperation with our process engineering team, you plan and monitor the production of your modulator systems at Waferscale level and then characterize the resulting components using state-of-the-art measurement technology (high power laser, ultrashort pulse systems, wafer scale characterization of Silicon Photonics). You will publish the results of your work as scientific publications and present them at international conferences and in the project meetings with external partners. In addition, you will supervise student and scientific assistants as well as bachelor and master thesis.

Minimum qualification: Complete scientific studies (Master/Uni Diploma) in electrical engineering, physics, nanoengineering or comparable to very good grades Practical experience in optoelectronics or Photonic Integrated Circuits (PIC), such as the electro-optical characterization of PICs with different modulators First practical experience in the field of nanotechnology and/or microtechnology, preferably in the production of optoelectronic components Structured working to get involved in new scientific topics and enjoy collaborative work in an interdisciplinary team that lives on fresh ideas Very good knowledge of German and English for cooperation in an international environment Required qualifications: First practical experience in the simulation (preferably with Lumerical) of photonic components Experience with preparation and presentation of scientific results in scientific journals First experience with work in the laboratory, for example optical characterization

Doctorate in an application-oriented topic within 3 years. You can access all the institute's own clean rooms and laboratories for your practical work. Teaching obligations will not be transferred to you. The doctoral degree is awarded by the University of Duisburg-Essen. In addition to the support provided by an institute-internal specialist, a regular organized exchange takes place on the scientific state of your work within the framework of a doctorate/paternal body. During the promotion period, you will be supported by accompanying offers. For example, you can benefit from regular doctoral student coaching and learn to safely apply professional methods of project management during your doctorate and to support the project acquisition. If the dissertation is submitted in due time, the option is to further deepen the research work within the framework of a connection agreement or to switch to other areas. The full-time post as a doctoral student with half-remuneration provides 50% of the time for your doctoral degree and 50% for cooperation in research projects as a scientific assistant. Flexible working hours (running time with integrated core working time from 9:30 - 15:00, Friday from 9:30 - 13:00) and mobile work on up to two days a week for better reconciliation of work and private life Occupational pension (VBL) and grant to the Deutschland-Ticket Job Very good transport with public transport/car and free parking and bicycle parking for employees Family and Occupational Compatibility Support: Mit-Kind-Office, Kindernotpflege und Beratungs zu Homecare-Eldercare etc. in cooperation with the pme family service Corporate Benefits: Benefits Offers from renowned manufacturers and brands