Organisation/Company Munster Technological University Department CAPPA Centre Research Field Physics » Optics Physics » Applied physics Engineering » Electronic engineering Researcher Profile First Stage Researcher (R1) Positions PhD Positions Country Ireland Application Deadline 25 Jan *********:00 (Europe/Dublin) Type of Contract Temporary Job Status Full-time Is the job funded through the EU Research Framework Programme?
Not funded by a EU programme Is the Job related to staff position within a Research Infrastructure?
No
Offer Description
Overview of the CAPPA Centre:
The Centre for Advanced Photonics & Process Analysis (CAPPA) at Munster Technological University (MTU) is seeking a highly motivated PhD candidate to work on the INSPIRATION project.
This project is funded by Taighde Éireann – Research Ireland Frontiers for the Future Programme (24/FFP-P/*****).
The successful candidate will join the Nanophotonics group and work on the development of next-generation light sources for Optical Coherence Tomography (OCT).
OCT is the "ultrasound of light," widely used to diagnose eye diseases.
However, current laser sources are bulky, expensive, and limited in resolution.
The INSPIRATION project aims to develop the world's first
Akinetic Dispersive Tuned Laser (ADL)
in a
Photonic Integrated Circuit (PIC)
format operating in the visible spectrum (670nm).
By eliminating mechanical parts and moving to the visible range, this technology will:
Increase the image resolution compared to current infrared systems.
Dramatically reduce the size and cost of OCT systems.
Do you want to:
Earn a PhD working on cutting-edge laser technology for medical diagnostics?
Gain hands-on expertise in Photonic Integrated Circuits (PICs), hybrid integration, and cleanroom fabrication?
Work between two world-class research institutes (CAPPA at MTU and Tyndall National Institute)?
Contribute to a project that aims to save sight by improving eye imaging technology?
Duties and Responsibilities (the PhD Research Plan):
The PhD student will engage in a balance of theoretical and experimental investigation.
Under the supervision of Dr. Chinna Devarapu, the candidate will undertake:
Fabrication (Cleanroom):
Receive extensive training at the Tyndall National Institute (Cork) cleanroom facilities.
You will perform layer deposition, etching, and photolithography to fabricate passive components.
Integration
: Work on the heterogeneous integration of active components (lasers/modulators) onto Silicon Nitride (SiN) platforms using novel Micro-Transfer Printing (µTP) techniques.
Characterization
: Use advanced characterization suites at CAPPA (MTU) to test the optical and electrical performance of the developed ADL lasers.
Simulation
: Assist in the numerical modelling of photonic devices.
Dissemination
: Present results at international conferences and publish findings in high-impact scientific journals.
Thesis
: Prepare and defend a doctoral thesis based on the research findings.
Training and Development:
This position offers a unique opportunity to be trained in the entire lifecycle of photonic device creation—from design and simulation to cleanroom fabrication and final characterization.
You will develop highly transferable skills in semiconductor processing, optics, and data analysis.
Where to apply
E-mail ******
Requirements
Research Field Physics » Optics Education Level Bachelor Degree or equivalent
Skills/Qualifications
At least an undergraduate degree in Physics, Electronic Engineering, Photonics, Material Science, or a related discipline, and must meet the requirements to undertake a Ph.D. degree at MTU.
Essential Skills/Qualifications:
Strong background in physics or engineering fundamentals.
Interest in optics, lasers, and semiconductor technology.
Ability to work independently and as part of a multidisciplinary team.
Good communication skills in English (written and oral).
Experience with optical laboratory equipment (lasers, oscilloscopes, spectrum analyzers).
Basic knowledge of programming (Python, MATLAB) for data analysis.
Knowledge of photonics or semiconductor fabrication.
Languages ENGLISH Level Good
Years of Research Experience None
Additional Information
Stipend:
The successful candidate will receive a tax-free stipend of
€25,000 per annum
(in line with Research Ireland rates) for up to 4 years.
Fees:
Annual tuition fees are covered by the project (EU/non-EU rates).
Equipment:
Provision of high-spec work laptop and access to state-of-the-art lab facilities
Travel:
Budget for attending international conferences and training events.
Selection process
Applications should be sent by email to
Dr. Chinna Devarapu
.
Please include:
A detailed CV.
A cover letter explaining your interest in the position and relevant experience.
Transcripts of your undergraduate/master's degrees.
Contact details for two academic referees.
The position is based in
Cork, Ireland
.
The student will be registered at
Munster Technological University (Bishopstown Campus)
but will split their time between:
CAPPA Labs (MTU)
: For characterization and testing.
Tyndall National Institute
: For cleanroom fabrication and device processing.
(MTU have a Memorandum of Understanding in place with University College Cork which allows CAPPA personnel access to the Tyndall National Institute facilities).
Number of offers available 1 Company/Institute CAPPA Centre, Munster Technological University Country Ireland State/Province Co.
Cork City Cork Postal Code T12 P928 Street Rossa Avenue Geofield
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