PhD in ‘Scalable Neuromorphic Photonic Circuits and Interconnects’
This PhD project is offered by the Semiconductor and Photonics Education and Research (SPEAR) Centre, a cross‑border initiative funded by PEACEPLUS and managed by the Special EU Programmes Body (SEUPB). The Centre brings together Atlantic Technological University, Ulster University, Tyndall National Institute and Seagate Technology to develop integrated photonics and semiconductor technologies that will underpin Ireland’s and Northern Ireland’s deep‑tech innovation ecosystem.
The position is based at Tyndall National Institute, Cork, and is open to qualified candidates from the University College Cork programme.
Project Description
Emerging neuromorphic photonic systems combine the massive parallelism of neural networks with the ultra‑high bandwidth and low‑latency of integrated photonics. This PhD will focus on the design and fabrication of neuromorphic photonic circuits that integrate computation and communication on a single platform. Physics‑based models of photonic neurons and interconnect fabrics will be developed using realistic component parameters and co‑simulation with electronic control circuitry.
A key innovation will be adaptive calibration and reconfiguration mechanisms that detect performance drift or device faults and dynamically restore correct functionality during operation. Collaboration with SPEAR consortium partners will produce runtime monitoring and control algorithms to enhance yield, stability and resilience in large‑scale systems.
Key Responsibilities
* Develop and validate compact models for neuromorphic photonic building blocks (microring resonators, MZI weight banks, phase shifters, SOAs, etc.)
* Design wavelength‑division multiplexing interconnects for neuromorphic architectures and assess energy, latency and fault tolerance
* Develop adaptive control and calibration algorithms
* Perform co‑simulation of photonic and electronic subsystems (e.g. Python, Lumerical/Luceda, VPI)
* Present research findings at key conferences and publish in high‑impact journals
* Complete required PhD coursework, attend group meetings and support outreach activities
Essential Criteria
* First or upper second‑class honours degree (or equivalent) in Physics, Electronic Engineering or a related field
* Strong interest in neuromorphic or AI hardware architectures
* Excellent analytical and programming skills (Python, MATLAB or equivalent)
* Ability to work independently and as part of a multidisciplinary team
* Proficiency in written and spoken English
Desirable Criteria
* Masters degree in Physics, Engineering or Photonics
* Experience with photonic simulation tools (Lumerical INTERCONNECT, Luceda IPKISS, VPI Photonics, etc.)
* Familiarity with mixed‑signal or FPGA‑based control systems
* Knowledge of machine learning frameworks (PyTorch, TensorFlow)
* Prior research experience in integrated photonics or neuromorphic systems
What We Offer
Fully funded PhD position – stipend of €25,000 per year for up to four years plus full coverage of academic fees. Students will be registered at University College Cork and will receive training in semiconductor fabrication, packaging, entrepreneurship and advanced research courses.
Students will join a cohort of 15 peers, attend a bespoke induction programme, an annual training school and have access to advanced courses. The preferred start date is as soon as possible, with a requirement to begin prior to 1 April 2026 (including any administrative and visa arrangements).
Application Instructions
Apply by forwarding an up‑to‑date CV/Resume and a brief cover letter outlining how you meet the essential criteria. Postgraduate applicants whose first language is not English must provide evidence of English language proficiency as per UCC regulations.
Closing date for applications is 17 November 2025. Garda vetting or an international police clearance check may be required. The Tyndall National Institute does not use recruitment agencies.
We are an Equal Opportunities Employer.
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