Project Overview
About the Position
Eindhoven University of Technology (TU/e) invites applications for a PhD position on spatiotemporal light generation with frequency-gradient metasurfaces. The project explores engineered metasurfaces that imprint controlled frequency gradients on ultrashort optical pulses, enabling ultrafast beam steering, temporal focusing and self-torque light beams. The doctoral candidate will design, fabricate and characterise these structures and study how spatiotemporal control of light opens new regimes for ultrafast optics and nano-optical applications.
The position is a salaried four-year doctoral appointment under the Dutch CAO-NU collective agreement, embedded in TU/e's nano-optics research environment with access to advanced cleanroom fabrication and ultrafast photonics laboratories. The work combines electromagnetic simulation, nanofabrication and optical experiments, and connects to a broader research agenda on structured light and metasurface photonics with international collaboration partners.
Candidate Profile
Applicants hold a master's degree in physics, photonics or electrical engineering, with a solid background in optics and wave physics. Experience with ultrafast lasers, metasurface design, cleanroom fabrication or optical characterisation is an advantage. Applications are submitted through TU/e's Varbi recruitment system with a CV, transcripts, references and a motivation letter; selection weighs academic record, research experience and fit with the project.
Highlights
- Salaried four-year PhD employment under the CAO-NU agreement
- Frequency-gradient metasurfaces for spatiotemporal light control
- Ultrafast beam steering, temporal focusing and self-torque
- Simulation, nanofabrication and ultrafast optical experiments
- Advanced cleanroom and ultrafast photonics laboratories
- Application via the Varbi recruitment system
Funding and Duration
| Component | Details |
|---|---|
| Award or position | PhD fellowship / salaried position |
| Stipend / salary | EUR 3,204 - EUR 4,051 gross per month (CAO-NU PhD scale) |
| Duration | Four years (PhD employment) |
Eligibility and Requirements
| Component | Details |
|---|---|
| Applicant eligibility | Worldwide |
| Academic preparation | Master's in physics, photonics or electrical engineering; ultrafast optics experience an advantage |
| Language | English proficiency required |
Application dates
| Component | Details |
|---|---|
| Recruitment status | Open |
| Deadline | 10 November 2026 |
| Location | Eindhoven, Netherlands |
About Eindhoven University of Technology
Eindhoven University of Technology is a public technical university in Eindhoven, the Netherlands. TU/e offers engineering and technology education at undergraduate, master's and doctoral levels. Its research connects with industry in the Brainport region, addressing topics such as energy, intelligent systems, materials and health through collaboration across science and engineering.
Official details: Read the programme or project information
Application route: Follow the official application instructions
Contact
Questions about this position, eligibility or the application process should be raised through the contact channel given on the official announcement page (see the Official Link section above). Always quote the position reference in your message so the admissions or HR team can route your enquiry quickly.
Important Notes
- Application deadline: 10 November 2026 - late or incomplete applications are normally not considered.
- Listing details were recorded from the official source at the time of publication; always confirm the latest requirements on the official page before applying.
- Prepare the documents listed in the eligibility and application sections before starting the online form - transcripts, CV and references take the longest to collect.
How to Apply
Submit your application through the official page before the deadline: 10 November 2026. Read the eligibility requirements carefully and prepare all requested documents - early applications are strongly recommended for competitive awards.
Open the official application page ↗
Application guides
- PhD Interview Preparation: Research Questions and Clear Answers
- A 12-Month Study Abroad Application Plan for Master's and PhD Applicants
Official Link
https://tue.varbi.com/en/apply/positionquick/968073/?where=117
Frequently asked questions
Drawn from this listing's own record. Always confirm the details on the official source before applying.
What is the deadline for PhD in Spatiotemporal Light Generation with Frequency-Gradient Metasurfaces - Eindhoven University of Technology (TU/e), Netherlands?
The application deadline is 11 November 2026 (10 November 2026). Applications received after that date are not considered, so treat it as a hard cut-off (Europe/Amsterdam time) and leave time for references and transcripts. Closing time not specified — confirm with the provider before you leave it until the last day: the source names Europe/Amsterdam but gives no clock time.
Is PhD in Spatiotemporal Light Generation with Frequency-Gradient Metasurfaces - Eindhoven University of Technology (TU/e), Netherlands fully funded?
This is a fully funded award: tuition is covered and a living stipend is provided for the duration of the programme. EUR 3,204 - EUR 4,051 gross per month (CAO-NU PhD scale).
Who is eligible to apply for PhD in Spatiotemporal Light Generation with Frequency-Gradient Metasurfaces - Eindhoven University of Technology (TU/e), Netherlands?
This opportunity is open to applicants worldwide. Host-country status is not a requirement, although you must still satisfy the visa rules for Netherlands. Applications are assessed by Eindhoven University of Technology.
How do I apply for PhD in Spatiotemporal Light Generation with Frequency-Gradient Metasurfaces - Eindhoven University of Technology (TU/e), Netherlands?
Applications for PhD in Spatiotemporal Light Generation with Frequency-Gradient Metasurfaces - Eindhoven University of Technology (TU/e), Netherlands are submitted directly to Eindhoven University of Technology through the provider's own application portal — use the Apply button on this page to open it. NextApply does not process applications or charge a fee.
Is an English proficiency test required for PhD in Spatiotemporal Light Generation with Frequency-Gradient Metasurfaces - Eindhoven University of Technology (TU/e), Netherlands?
Yes — an English-language certificate is required for this listing. Check the exact band expected on the official source, since it can differ by programme. Requirements for Netherlands are published by the provider.
What study level does PhD in Spatiotemporal Light Generation with Frequency-Gradient Metasurfaces - Eindhoven University of Technology (TU/e), Netherlands offer?
This listing is offered at PhD level. That describes the qualification on offer, not a credential you must already hold — check the provider's stated entry requirements before applying.
Hosted by
Eindhoven University of Technology
Eindhoven University of Technology is a public technical university in Eindhoven, the Netherlands. TU/e offers engineering and technology education at undergraduate, master's and doctoral levels. Its research connects with industry in the Brainport region, addressing topics such as energy, intelligent systems, materials and health through collaboration across science and engineering.
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