Summary
The University of Namur (UNamur) in Belgium is offering a fully funded PhD position as part of the Marie Skłodowska-Curie Actions (MSCA) doctoral network SPARK. This exciting opportunity focuses on “Optical Vortex Generation Using Twisted Bilayer Photonic Crystals” within the emerging field of moiré photonics. The project involves theoretical and numerical calculations, as well as experimental fabrication and characterization, with secondments at IMEC (Belgium) and INESC MN (Portugal). The successful candidate will join a dynamic research team and contribute to cutting-edge research in spatiotemporal photonic technologies.
Designation
PhD Candidate / Researcher
Scholarship Details
| Category | Detail |
|---|---|
| Designation | Researcher |
| Contract Type | Fixed-term contract |
| Grade | Researcher |
| Reference | 101310184 — SPARK |
| Funding | 36 months funded by SPARK MSCA network, additional 12 months by UNamur |
| Gross Salary | Starting around 3000€/month (potential for additional mobility/family allowances) |
| Research Stays | 6 months at INESC MN (Portugal), 3 months at IMEC (Belgium) |
| Start Date | Between February 1st, 2027 and May 1st, 2027 |
Research Area
Optical Vortex Generation Using Twisted Bilayer Photonic Crystals
This PhD project delves into moiré photonics, an emerging field studying novel platforms made of two disoriented photonic crystals. Inspired by twistronics, this research explores the generation of optical vortices carrying orbital angular momentum from twisted photonic crystal structures. The goal is to design twisted photonic crystals to realize robust vortex radiation. The candidate will develop skills in theoretical modeling, simulation, nanofabrication, and structured-light characterization.
Key Research Aspects:
- Theoretical and numerical calculations of twisted photonic crystals.
- Experimental fabrication of photonic structures.
- Characterization of structured light, including off-axis digital holography.
- Contribution to metamaterial-enabled structured light generation through controlled angular momentum.
Location
Primary Location: University of Namur (UNamur), NISM Institute, Physics Department, Namur, Belgium
Secondments:
- IMEC, Belgium (3 months for nanofabrication exposure)
- INESC MN (Prof. M. Piccardo), Portugal (6 months for structured-light characterization)
Eligibility and Qualifications
- Educational Background: Master’s degree in physics, astrophysics, applied physics, optics, electrical engineering, material engineering, or a closely related subject.
- Doctoral Degree Status: Must not hold a doctoral degree at the time of recruitment.
- Mobility Rule: Must not have resided or carried out main activity (work, studies, etc.) in Belgium for more than 12 months in the 36 months immediately preceding recruitment.
- Language: Strong skills in the English language.
- Preferred Skills (Assets, not requirements): Expertise in photonics, numerical methods, scientific computing/HPC, nanofabrication, and/or optical characterization.
- Personal Attributes: Team player spirit, willingness to collaborate, autonomy, and transparency.
Scholarship Description
The MSCA doctoral network SPARK offers a comprehensive PhD program designed to advance spatiotemporal photonic technologies. This specific position at UNamur focuses on pioneering research in moiré photonics, a nascent field with significant fundamental, numerical, and technological challenges. The program includes:
- A competitive gross salary with potential additional allowances.
- Full funding for 4 years (36 months by SPARK, 12 months by UNamur).
- Mandatory research secondments at leading institutions (IMEC and INESC MN).
- A structured training program covering research-specific and transferable skills.
- Active participation in workshops, conferences, and network-wide events.
- An international, multidisciplinary, and stimulating research environment within a prestigious European network.
- Access to state-of-the-art facilities, including HPC Tier 2 and Tier-1 supercomputers, and advanced software/tools.
How to Apply
Interested candidates must submit a complete application via email to Prof. Michaël Lobet.
Required Application Documents:
- A curriculum vitae (CV) including any publications and teaching experiences.
- A list of all Master’s courses with corresponding ECTS and individual scores obtained.
- A personal letter (1-3 pages) introducing yourself, describing previous research fields and main results (if any), outlining personal goals, and explaining how you fit the application.
- Names and contact details of up to 3 reference persons who can assess your qualifications.
- Any other relevant information.
Email your complete application to: michael.lobet@unamur.be
For more information, you may contact Prof. Michaël Lobet at the email address provided.
Last Date to Apply
November 15, 2026
Apply Link
While there isn’t a direct “apply link” in the traditional sense, applications are to be sent directly via email. Please use the contact information provided:
Email: michael.lobet@unamur.be
Original Source: https://jobs.unamur.be/emploi.2026-09-11.2982479947
