PhD in Meta-optics Based Optomechanics

PHD, Nanoscience
Switzerland
19 November 2025
Full Time PhD position
Urgent

Job Description

ETH Zürich invites applications for a PhD position in Meta-optics Based Optomechanics, hosted in the Nanophotonic Systems Laboratory (NSL). This exciting research opportunity explores the interface of meta-optics, nanotechnology, and optomechanics, focusing on engineered metasurfaces to manipulate electromagnetic modes, optical forces, and mechanical responses. The position provides hands-on experience in nanofabrication, laser-based characterization, numerical simulations, and advanced photonics research.

Job Details

Field Information
Job Title PhD in Meta-optics Based Optomechanics
Organization ETH Zürich
Department / Lab Nanophotonic Systems Laboratory (NSL)
Location Zurich, Switzerland
Country Switzerland
Research Field Nanotechnology, Materials Engineering, Electrical Engineering, Mechanical Engineering, Optomechanics, Meta-optics
Researcher Profile PhD Candidate
Contract Type PhD (Full-time)
Application Deadline Unspecified
Start Date As per agreement
Salary ETH Zürich doctoral salary (standard, competitive)
How to Apply Online via ETH application portal
Required Qualification Bachelor’s/Master’s degree in Physics, Engineering, Nanotechnology, or related fields
Required Experience Basic laboratory experience, data analysis, interest in nanofabrication or photonics

About the Program

ETH Zürich stands among the world’s leading science and engineering universities. The Nanophotonic Systems Laboratory (NSL), led by Prof. Romain Quidant, is globally recognized for breakthroughs in optomechanics, nano-optics, plasmonics, and metasurface engineering. The lab brings together a diverse and interdisciplinary team working at the fundamental and applied frontiers of nanophotonics.

Project Background

Meta-optics has redefined how we manipulate light–matter interactions, unlocking capabilities across imaging, biosensing, laser engineering, nonlinear optics, and photonic computing. This PhD project extends these advances into the emerging field of optomechanics, enabling new ways to control mechanical motion using engineered optical fields.

By designing metasurfaces with tailored electromagnetic modes, it is possible to modulate:

  • Optical forces

  • Mechanical responses

  • Resonant interactions

  • Nonlinear optomechanical behavior

This research aims to uncover unprecedented physical effects and develop enabling technologies with potential applications in precision sensing, photonic circuits, quantum systems, and ultra-fast mechanical control technologies.

What You Will Do

As a PhD student, you will be involved in the complete research pipeline, from conceptual development to device realization:

1. Numerical Design & Simulation

  • Model optomechanical metasurfaces

  • Use electromagnetic solvers (FDTD/FEM)

  • Explore mode engineering and field confinement

2. Cleanroom Nanofabrication

  • Fabricate metasurfaces using state-of-the-art nanofabrication tools

  • Perform lithography, etching, thin-film deposition, and structural metrology

3. Experimental Characterization

  • Characterize optical and mechanical properties

  • Work with lasers, optical setups, spectroscopy, and vacuum systems

  • Implement experiment-control software and data processing routines

Who Succeeds in This Position

Ideal candidates will have:

  • Passion for frontier research in nanotechnology, meta-optics, and optomechanics

  • Creativity, curiosity, and strong analytical thinking

  • Ability to work in an interdisciplinary team

  • Basic laboratory experience and familiarity with programming for experiment control (e.g., Python, MATLAB)

  • Experience in nanofabrication, optical setups, vacuum systems, or numerical simulations (advantageous but not mandatory)

ETH Zürich supports a culture of diversity, sustainability, inclusion, and equal opportunity, making it a welcoming environment for international students.

Benefits & Environment

  • Work in a world-leading photonics research group

  • Access to advanced nanofabrication cleanrooms and laser laboratories

  • International work culture with interdisciplinary collaboration

  • Comprehensive training in:

    • Nanotechnology

    • Meta-optics

    • Optomechanics

    • Laser physics

    • Vacuum technology

    • Optical measurements

    • Numerical modeling

  • Competitive PhD salary according to ETH regulations

  • Support for attending international conferences and workshops

Application Instructions

Applications must be submitted exclusively through the online ETH application portal.

Required documents:

  • Updated CV

  • Motivation Letter

Contact for scientific questions:

➡️ Apply through ETH Online Portal (Submit Your Application Here)
(Insert your website CTA link in this section as required.)

Reference Links

Location

Related Jobs