Doctoral Position in Experimental Ultrafast Optics and Photonics
The Ultrafast Dynamics Group at ETH Zurich is offering a doctoral position in Experimental Ultrafast Optics and Photonics. The position is part of the newly funded ETH Collaborative Grant Shaping Time-Interfaces with Terahertz Subwavelength Confinement, a collaborative research project between the groups of Prof. Steven Johnson, Prof. Giacomo Scalari, and Prof. Alexander Dikopoltsev. The successful candidate will be supervised by Prof. Steven Johnson and Dr. Martina Basini.
Project background
The project investigates how ultrafast temporal modulation of electromagnetic media can be used to manipulate light in fundamentally new ways. By combining ultrafast optical excitation with subwavelength terahertz waveguides, the project seeks to realize and study the phenomena of time interfaces, time reflection, and photonic time crystals. These phenomena represent a new frontier in photonics, where the temporal control of material properties enables fundamentally new ways of generating, guiding, and manipulating electromagnetic waves.
The research combines ultrafast optics, terahertz spectroscopy, nanophotonics, and electromagnetic wave engineering, with the goal of developing a unique experimental platform for investigating time-varying electromagnetic media.
Job description
- As a doctoral student, you will develop and implement novel ultrafast experiments to investigate time-varying electromagnetic media
- The project combines optical pump-probe spectroscopy, broadband terahertz techniques, subwavelength waveguide engineering, and advanced optical instrumentation to explore fundamentally new regimes of light-matter interaction
Your research activities will include:
- Development of ultrafast optical pump-probe experiments
- Generation and phase-resolved detection of broadband terahertz pulses
- Characterization of subwavelength THz waveguides in collaboration with project partners
- Development of advanced optical instrumentation and experimental methodologies
- Data analysis and numerical modelling
- Close collaboration with researchers from the participating ETH research groups
The successful candidate will have the opportunity to contribute to the development of a completely new experimental platform while addressing fundamental questions at the intersection of photonics, electromagnetism, and ultrafast science.
Profile
We are looking for a highly motivated candidate with:
- Applicants should hold a Master's degree in Physics, Applied Physics, Electrical Engineering, or a closely related discipline
- A strong interest in experimental physics
- Excellent analytical and problem-solving skills
- Enthusiasm for developing advanced experimental techniques
- Programming experience (Python, MATLAB, or similar)
- Excellent written and spoken English
Experience in one or more of the following areas is advantageous, but not required:
- Ultrafast optics
- Terahertz spectroscopy
We offer
ETH Zurich is one of the world's leading universities for science and technology, providing an outstanding research environment and access to world-class research infrastructure.
You will become part of an interdisciplinary collaboration that brings together expertise in ultrafast spectroscopy, terahertz photonics, waveguide engineering, and theoretical electromagnetism. The project offers the opportunity to work closely with internationally recognized researchers while contributing to an ambitious research program at the forefront of experimental photonics.
The successful candidate will play a central role in establishing a new experimental platform from the ground up, with ample opportunities to develop independent ideas and make significant scientific contributions within a highly collaborative research environment.
The position is fully funded for four years.
Working, teaching and research at ETH Zurich
We value diversity and sustainability
In line with our values, ETH Zurich encourages an inclusive culture. We promote equality of opportunity, value diversity and nurture a working and learning environment in which the rights and dignity of all our staff and students are respected. Visit our Equal Opportunities and Diversity website to find out how we ensure a fair and open environment that allows everyone to grow and flourish. Sustainability is a core value for us – we are consistently working towards a climate-neutral future.
Curious? So are we.
We look forward to receiving your online application with the following documents:
- A motivation letter
- A curriculum vitae
- Academic transcripts
- Contact details of two references
Further information about the Physics department and the Institute of Quantum Electronics can be found on our website. Questions regarding the position should be directed to Dr. Martina Basini, mbasini@phys.ethz.ch (no applications).
Please note that we exclusively accept applications submitted through our online application portal. Applications via email or postal services will not be considered.
We would like to point out that the pre-selection is carried out by the responsible recruiters and not by artificial intelligence.
Applications will be reviewed on a rolling basis until the position is filled.
Expected starting date: October 2026
About ETH Zürich
ETH Zurich is one of the world’s leading universities specialising in science and technology. We are renowned for our excellent education, cutting-edge fundamental research and direct transfer of new knowledge into society. Over 30,000 people from more than 120 countries find our university to be a place that promotes independent thinking and an environment that inspires excellence. Located in the heart of Europe, yet forging connections all over the world, we work together to develop solutions for the global challenges of today and tomorrow.
