Meta-lenses and diffractive optics have been considered as the future of optics as they enable more functionality than our current refractive optics technology. Several challenges still need to be met, such as efficient algorithms for inverse designs, dispersion for broadband application, and scalable fabrication methods to reach the consumer markets. This thesis proposes to address these open points within the frame of digital holography and light field imaging, whereby the wafer level optics enables a wavefront sampling. The candidate will use and develop numerical simulation and design methods targeted to the application. Materials such as polymers and metal for optical antennas will be developed. Fabrication techniques such as electron beam and nanoimprint lithography will be assessed for their precision and yield. Finally, a test bench for the test of optical function will be built for micro and meta-optics and used on the produced prototypes.

• Master’s degree in Physics, Electrical Engineering, Optics, or a related field.
• Strong foundational knowledge in optics, particularly in the areas of meta-lenses, diffractive optics, and holography.
• Hands-on experience with designing and conducting optical measurements, including wavefront analysis and holography.
• Practical experience in cleanroom environments, particularly with fabrication techniques like electron beam lithography and nanoimprint lithography.
• Proficiency in using optical simulation tools (e.g., COMSOL, Lumerical, or similar) for the design and analysis of optical components.
• Proficiency in programming languages (e.g., Python, MATLAB, C++) for automating simulations, data analysis, and experiment control.
• Excellent written and oral communication skills in English.
• Enthusiasm for developing new ideas and a positive attitude towards new challenges.
• Ability to work independently, be well organised, produce high quality documents and meet deadlines.
• Project experience and/or publications in related fields are beneficial.

• Application deadline: 3 November 2024
• Weekly working hours: 38.5
• Diversified research activities with plenty of technical challenges.
• State-of-the-art lab facilities and instruments.
• Internal and external training opportunities for further development.
• Home Office possible.
• € 4 per day food allowance in restaurants or € 2 per day in supermarkets.
• Family & kids friendly.
• Free coffee/milk/tea & fresh fruits.

For this position you will receive a monthly gross salary of EUR 3,827, which will be paid 14 times a year. Financial support for housing for stays abroad (e.g., in case of secondments) and travelling expenses will be offered on a case-by-case basis.

Application requirements:

• Applicants must not have resided and/or carried out their main activity (work, studies, etc.) in Austria for more than 12 months in the 3 years immediately before the call deadline.
• Master's degree including official evidence completed by application deadline.
• Not in possession of a Ph D degree.
• Only complete sets of application documents concatenated in a single PDF can be accepted.

Required application documents (concatenated in a single PDF in this order):

• [Mandatory] 1-page letter of motivation (in English), including a declaration of the considered research topic
• [Mandatory] CV (in English), including
  • expertise, skills, and
  • (if applicable) list of internships and publications & patents
• [Mandatory] Scanned copies of transcripts of records for bachelor and the master (or equivalent degree) including the diplomas proofing the completion of the studies (originally issued in English or German, or an official translation in alignment with the guidelines on translation and authentication)
• [Mandatory] Proof of fluency in English at minimum B2 level (Upper Intermediate English). Accepted proofs are e.g. master studies in English or an internationally accepted certificate.
• [Mandatory] Scanned copy of valid Passport/ID
• [Optional] Letter of references from academic reference persons (with contact details)
• [Optional] Authored/Co-authored publications
• [Mandatory] Master thesis

Please check all the details about the application requirements on our website: Crystalline Program Recruitment | SAL Research Network (silicon-austria.com)

Silicon Austria Labs (SAL) is a top research center for Electronics and Software Based Systems (ESBS). At three locations (Graz, Villach, Linz), SAL is conducting research along the entire ESBS value chain in the areas of sensor systems, power electronics, intelligent wireless systems, microsystems and embedded systems to develop future-oriented solutions for industrial production, health, energy, mobility, safety and more. SAL brings together key players from industry, science and research and thus valuable expertise and know-how and conducts cooperative, application-oriented research along the value chain. Cooperative projects are co-financed by SAL and enable a fast and unbureaucratic project start. SAL is thus shaping the high-tech location Austria and Europe and developing the future