Summary
AMOLF is seeking a highly motivated Postdoctoral Researcher to join the Photonic Materials group led by Prof. Albert Polman. This 3-year research position is embedded within the NXTGEN Hightech programme of the Dutch National Growth Fund, collaborating closely with TU Delft, DELMIC, Amsterdam Scientific Instruments, and Technolution. The project pushes the boundaries of cathodoluminescence (CL) spectroscopy towards both high-throughput multi-beam metrology and fundamental investigations of electron-photon entanglement.
| Designation | Postdoctoral Researcher (Postdoc) |
| Research Area | Cathodoluminescence (CL), Quantum Optics, Nanophotonics, Electron Microscopy |
| Location | AMOLF, Amsterdam Science Park, Amsterdam, The Netherlands |
| Employment Type | Full-time (40 hours/week), 3-year temporary contract |
| Gross Salary | Starts at €4,552 gross per month (Scale 10, CAO-OI) |
| Application Deadline | Open until filled (Applications reviewed continuously) |
Job Description
Cathodoluminescence (CL) is light emitted when a fast electron interacts with a material, serving as a powerful nanoscale probe of optical and electronic properties. Each emission event carries quantum-mechanical correlations between electrons and emitted photons. In this project, the postdoc will drive research in both high-throughput application and fundamental quantum optics.
Key responsibilities and work activities include:
- High-throughput CL with a single beam: Identify imaging speed limitations (scanning, detector response, signal levels, data volume) and optimize throughput using fast detectors (e.g., Timepix multi-pixel photon and electron counters), advanced scanning schemes, and automated data reduction.
- Multi-beam CL: Design and assess methods for collecting and detecting CL from multiple electron beamlets simultaneously. Construct an optical testbench emulating electron beam arrays and develop a prototype with DELMIC for multi-beam microscope testing at TU Delft.
- Correlative measurements: Combine CL with single-electron counting by detecting photons in coincidence with their excitation electrons to study photon statistics, emission dynamics, and correlations.
- Electron-photon entanglement: Investigate whether single-event electrons and photons are quantum-entangled by leveraging the laterally coherent fraction of electron beams, applying quantum-eraser geometries to observe potential emission interference.
- Collaborative research: Work closely with academic and industrial consortium partners (TU Delft, DELMIC, Amsterdam Scientific Instruments, Technolution) via regular meetings, quarterly workshops, and annual partner events.
Eligibility and Qualifications
Applicants must meet the following criteria:
- A PhD in physics, optics, materials science, engineering, or a related discipline.
- A strong interest in cathodoluminescence, electron microscopy, quantum optics, and advanced instrumentation development.
- Demonstrated experience or familiarity in one or more of the following areas is advantageous: optical instrumentation, fast detectors, photon-correlation/coincidence measurements, optical simulations, or automated data acquisition and analysis.
- Strong interpersonal and communication skills to work within a multidisciplinary, international consortium.
Working Conditions and Benefits
- A full-time position (40 hours per week) employed through the Netherlands Foundation of Scientific Research Institutes (NWO-I) for a duration of 3 years.
- A competitive gross monthly salary starting at €4,552 (Scale 10 of CAO-OI), supplemented by standard Dutch academic benefits (holiday allowance, end-of-year bonus).
- Relocation support: AMOLF assists international postdocs with housing searches, visa procedures, and reimburses transport and furnishing expenses.
- An inclusive, collaborative work environment at the renowned Amsterdam Science Park.
How to Apply
Interested candidates should submit their application online through the official AMOLF careers portal. The application should include a CV, motivation letter, and relevant reference details.
For further academic and project inquiries, please contact:
Prof. Albert Polman
Email: a.polman@amolf.nl
Last Date for Application
Applications are reviewed on a rolling basis until the position is successfully filled. Early application is encouraged.
Application Link
To view the official posting and apply online, visit: AMOLF Official Job Portal – Vacancy 1353568
