PhD Position: Optical Metasurfaces Controlling Quantum Electron Wavepackets at AMOLF, Netherlands

AMOLF is inviting applications for a fully funded PhD position: Optical metasurfaces controlling quantum electron wavepackets. In this project, you will investigate fundamental interactions between high-energy electrons and extreme optical fields inside an ultrafast scanning electron microscope (SEM) to pioneer novel quantum electron microscopy techniques.

Overview & Key Details

This 4-year PhD research project is carried out in the Photonic Materials group led by Prof. Albert Polman at AMOLF, in close partnership with the 2D Nanophotonics lab of Dr. Jorik van de Groep at the University of Amsterdam (UvA).

Designation

PhD Candidate (Doctoral Researcher)

Research Area

The research lies at the intersection of Nanophotonics, Quantum Physics, Metasurface Design, Nanofabrication, and Ultrafast Electron Microscopy. The focus is on photon-induced near-field electron microscopy (PINEM) using non-local optical metasurfaces to control and shape quantum electron wavepackets.

Location

AMOLF, Science Park 104, 1098 XG Amsterdam, The Netherlands.

Eligibility & Qualifications

• Prospective candidates must hold an MSc degree in Physics or an equivalent qualification.
• A strong background in physics with a keen interest in nanophotonics, quantum physics, nanofabrication, and electron microscopy.
• High motivation to work in an international, multidisciplinary environment.
• Candidates from underrepresented groups in physics are strongly encouraged to apply.

Scholarship & Project Description

In this doctoral research project, you will study fundamental interactions between high-energy electrons and intense laser fields in a scanning electron microscope (SEM). By utilizing photon-induced near-field electron microscopy (PINEM), you will engineer structured 2D dielectrics combined with transition-metal dichalcogenides (TMDs) to sculpt electron wavepackets in space and time.

Key Research Activities:

• Year 1 (PINEM and Metasurface Design): Learn to operate the ultrafast SEM at AMOLF, simulate PINEM theory, and design/fabricate non-local optical metasurfaces at the Amsterdam NanoCenter cleanroom facility.
• Year 2 (PINEM-Metasurface Integration): Characterize electron-light coupling on optimized metasurface platforms and tailor electron wavepackets using coherent interactions.
• Years 3–4 (Coherence and Entanglement): Investigate quantum correlations between electron energy loss and cathodoluminescence, and implement quantum-eraser experiments.

Work Environment & Benefits:

• A starting salary of €3,115 gross per month with secondary benefits according to the Collective Labour Agreement for Dutch Research Institutes.
• Upon successful completion, the doctoral degree (PhD) will be granted by the University of Amsterdam.
• Tailored PhD development courses and access to world-class research facilities.
• Assistance for international researchers regarding visa procedures, housing, transport costs, and furnishing allowances.

How to Apply

Interested applicants should submit their application online through the official AMOLF candidate portal. Applications typically require an updated curriculum vitae (CV), a motivation letter, and academic transcripts.

For further scientific inquiries, you may contact:

• Prof. Albert Polman (AMOLF): a.polman@amolf.nl
• Dr. Jorik van de Groep (UvA): j.vandegroep@uva.nl

Last Date for Apply

Applications are evaluated on a rolling basis until the position is filled. Early application is strongly advised.

Apply Link

Submit your application directly through the AMOLF job portal:

Apply for the PhD Position at AMOLF