Summary
The Ultrafast Dynamics Group at ETH Zurich is inviting applications for a fully funded, 4-year doctoral (PhD) position in Experimental Ultrafast Optics and Photonics. The position is part of the ETH Collaborative Grant project, “Shaping Time-Interfaces with Terahertz Subwavelength Confinement”, under the supervision of Prof. Steven Johnson and Dr. Martina Basini, in collaboration with the groups of Prof. Giacomo Scalari and Prof. Alexander Dikopoltsev. The project focuses on pioneering experimental platforms to investigate time-varying electromagnetic media, time reflection, and photonic time crystals.
Fully Funded PhD Position in Experimental Ultrafast Optics and Photonics at ETH Zurich
Key Information Overview
| Attribute | Details |
| Designation | Doctoral Student / PhD Researcher |
| Host Institution | ETH Zurich (Department of Physics / Institute of Quantum Electronics) |
| Research Group | Ultrafast Dynamics Group |
| Location | Zurich, Switzerland |
| Employment Type | 100%, Fixed-term (Fully funded for 4 years) |
| Expected Start Date | October 2026 |
| Application Deadline | Rolling basis until filled |
Research Area
- Field: Experimental Ultrafast Optics, Terahertz (THz) Spectroscopy, Nanophotonics, and Electromagnetic Wave Engineering.
- Focus: Time interfaces, time reflection, photonic time crystals, subwavelength THz waveguides, and light-matter interactions in time-varying media.
Eligibility & Qualifications
Required:
- Master’s degree in Physics, Applied Physics, Electrical Engineering, or a closely related discipline.
- Strong interest in experimental physics and laboratory instrumentation.
- Solid analytical, problem-solving, and numerical modelling skills.
- Proficiency in programming (e.g., Python, MATLAB, or equivalent).
- Excellent written and spoken English communication skills.
Advantageous (Not strictly required):
- Prior hands-on experience in ultrafast optics or pump-probe spectroscopy.
- Experience with terahertz generation/detection systems.
Scholarship & Position Description
The doctoral researcher will play a central role in developing and implementing novel ultrafast optical experiments to explore light manipulation in time-varying electromagnetic media.
Core Responsibilities:
- Designing and executing ultrafast optical pump-probe experiments.
- Generating and detecting phase-resolved broadband terahertz (THz) pulses.
- Characterizing subwavelength THz waveguides in collaboration with project partners.
- Developing advanced optical instrumentation, measurement methodologies, and data analysis pipelines.
- Collaborating closely across interdisciplinary research groups within the Department of Physics.
Benefits:
- Full funding and standard doctoral salary according to ETH Zurich guidelines for 4 years.
- Access to world-class laboratory infrastructure and cutting-edge research facilities.
- Direct supervision, mentorship, and participation in international research networks.
How to Apply
Applications must be submitted exclusively through the official ETH Zurich Online Job Portal. Applications sent via email or post will not be accepted.
Required Application Documents (PDF format):
- Letter of Motivation explaining research interests and suitability for the role.
- Curriculum Vitae (CV).
- Academic Transcripts (Bachelor’s and Master’s records).
- Contact details of two academic references.
For informal inquiries regarding the position, contact Dr. Martina Basini at mbasini@phys.ethz.ch (note: do not send applications to this address).
Last Date for Application
- Deadline: Applications are reviewed on a rolling basis until the position is filled. Early application is strongly recommended.
