The Swiss Federal Institute of Technology in Lausanne (EPFL) invites applications for a Postdoctoral Position in Plasmonic Crystals for Solar Energy within the Nanotechnology for Solar Energy Conversion group (SCI-ENAC-AS), led by Prof. Andreas Schüler. This role is supported by the Swiss National Science Foundation (SNSF) project titled “Coupled oscillations in plasmonic crystals”.
EPFL is one of the world’s leading engineering and technology institutions, offering an inspiring, well-equipped, and dynamic international research ecosystem in Lausanne, Switzerland.
Quick Overview of the Position
| Designation | Postdoctoral Researcher |
| Research Group | Nanotechnology for Solar Energy Conversion (SCI-ENAC-AS) |
| Research Area | Plasmonic Crystals, Nanostructured Materials, Solar Energy Conversion, Light-Matter Interaction |
| Location | EPFL, Lausanne, Switzerland |
| Contract Term | 1-year contract (renewable subject to organizational needs and availability) |
| Expected Start Date | May 1, 2027 (alternative date possible by mutual agreement) |
| Application Deadline | November 30, 2026 |
Research Area & Project Description
The postdoctoral candidate will join the SNSF-funded research initiative “Coupled oscillations in plasmonic crystals”. The project investigates the coupling effects of plasmonic oscillations in metallic micro- and nanostructures, aiming to achieve plasmonic crystals with broad frequency bands of extraordinary optical transmission (EOT) spanning the UV-VIS-NIR spectral range.
Insights gained from this research have high relevance and practical impact across several clean-tech and optoelectronic domains, including:
- Photovoltaics and active solar energy conversion
- Energy-efficient insulating glazing and electrochromic devices
- Energy-efficient OLED lighting
- Next-generation flat screens and flexible displays
Key Responsibilities & Job Description
As a postdoctoral researcher, you will be expected to:
- Assume primary responsibility for original experimental and numerical research.
- Collaborate actively with multidisciplinary research team members and international partners.
- Design, set up, and execute experiments, analyzing and interpreting complex physical datasets.
- Prepare and publish high-quality scientific manuscripts in leading peer-reviewed journals.
- Present research findings at prominent international conferences and workshops.
- Mentor and coach Master’s students, assist PhD candidates, and contribute to administrative/teaching tasks within the laboratory.
Eligibility Criteria & Qualifications
Candidates must demonstrate a solid academic record and meet the following criteria:
- Education: A PhD degree in Micro-/Nanotechnology, Physics, Optics, Materials Science, Energy Science, or a closely related quantitative field.
- Technical Competence: Demonstrated background and hands-on expertise in several of the following techniques:
- Reactive magnetron sputtering and thin-film deposition
- Electron-beam lithography (EBL) and nanofabrication
- Theoretical light-matter interactions
- Electromagnetic simulations using Finite Differences in the Time Domain (FDTD)
- Determination of optical constants via multi-angle UV-VIS-NIR ellipsometry and spectrophotometry
- Ultra-high vacuum scanning tunneling microscopy (UHV-STM)
- Photoelectron spectroscopies (XPS, UPS)
- Domain Passion: Deep interest in electronic/optical material properties, plasmonics, and building-integrated solar energy harvesting.
- Language Skills: Excellent command of spoken and written English. Proficiency in French is considered an asset.
- Soft Skills: Strong initiative, independence, critical thinking, outstanding problem-solving ability, and collaborative spirit.
What EPFL Offers
- A competitive Swiss salary and social benefits package.
- Access to cutting-edge research infrastructure, cleanroom facilities, and state-of-the-art optical/surface analysis instrumentation.
- A vibrant, multicultural research campus situated on the shores of Lake Geneva.
- Opportunities for professional growth, international networking, and academic mentorship.
How to Apply
Interested candidates should prepare and submit their complete application package through the official EPFL online job portal. Applications sent by email will not be considered.
Your application dossier must include:
- A comprehensive Curriculum Vitae (CV) including a list of publications
- A detailed Motivation Letter outlining your research experience and fit for the project
- Copies of relevant diplomas and degree certificates
- Letters of recommendation or contact details of academic referees
For project-specific inquiries and informal questions, you may contact: nanosolar.jobs@epfl.ch.
Important Dates & Apply Link
Application Deadline: November 30, 2026
Note: Only shortlisted applicants will be contacted for an interview.
Click Here to Apply Online at EPFL Careers
