PhD international awards in Experimental Nanoscale Optic

The Applied Nano-Optics research group at DTU Physics invites highly talented candidates to apply for a PhD scholarship in the field of experimental nanoscale optics. The scholarship is funded by an Eurotech Alliance project between DTU and Eindhoven University of Technology (TU/e).

The PhD project focuses on demonstrating novel nanoscale resonators for the detection of chiral molecules. Measuring the chiral structure of biomolecules is of fundamental and practical importance for understanding their chemical and biological properties. You will work on identifying, preparing, and measuring new nanomaterials capable of boosting the circular dichroism signal of chiral molecules.

Responsibilities and qualifications
The goal of the PhD project is to exploit new material platforms for ultrasensitive detection of chiral molecular structure in the ultraviolet spectral range. To achieve this, you will prepare and measure new optical nanomaterials using state-of-the-art equipment available at DTU. In particular, you will have access to and become an expert in advanced measurements using electron energy-loss spectroscopy and transmission electron microscopy. You will also have access to state-of-the-art cleanroom facilities for sample fabrication.

The PhD project is part of an alliance project between the Applied Nano-Optics group at DTU and the research group of Assistant Professor Albert G. Curto at TU/e. TU/e provides expertise in simulations and optical measurements of nanomaterials for chiral detection to complement the electron microscopy measurements at DTU. As part of the PhD, you will visit the research group at TU/e for an extended period of time (up to half a year).

You should be a highly motivated student with academic excellence and/or demonstrated scientific achievements. You should be interested in doing cutting-edge research and prefer experimental work. You will be in close collaboration with the research group at TU/e, so you should have excellent communication skills and be able to navigate in a multi-university project.

Besides these skills, preference will be given to applicants with experience within the following areas:

• Optics and photonics.
• Electron microscopy
• Cleanroom fabrication

You must have a two-year master's degree (120 ECTS points) in physics, photonics, materials science or a similar degree with an academic level equivalent to a two-year master's degree.

The appointment will be based on the collective agreement with the Danish Confederation of Professional Associations. The allowance will be agreed upon with the relevant union. The period of employment is 3 years.

Your complete online application must be submitted no later than 30 May 2021 (Danish time). Applications must be submitted as one PDF file containing all materials to be given consideration. To apply, please open the link "Apply online", fill out the online application form, and attach all your materials in English in one PDF file. The file must include:

• A letter motivating the application (cover letter)
• Curriculum vitae
• Grade transcripts and BSc/MSc diploma
• Excel sheet with translation of grades to the Danish grading system (see guidelines and Excel spreadsheet here)