The Optical Nanomaterial Group in the Physics Department at ETH Zurich is looking for a PhD student in quantum metamaterials. Optical metamaterials are a rapidly maturing technology that has made its way from academic research into modern smartphones. This has been enabled by the quality and precision of sub-wavelength nanostructures that have been fabricated by transferring the know-how from electronics and MEMS processing. While successful for linear optics, nonlinear and quantum metamaterials require the usage of different materials platforms that demand development of new nanofabrication approaches. 

The PhD project aims to develop a solution-derived metal-oxides (typically barium titanate or lithium niobate), characterize its nonlinear optical properties and design metasurfaces to explore polycrystalline materials as quantum light sources. This will include exploring chemical synthesis routes for ternary metal-oxides and combining these with nanopatterning methods as direct soft nanoimprint lithography, but including also the standard nanofabrication cleanroom processes flows such as lithography, etching and electron microscopy. The project will also involve developing numerical simulations for metasurfaces, implementation of designs to chip design and experimental verification of with linear, nonlinear and quantum optical experiments.

The successful candidate should be highly motivated and creative, should have a Master’s degree in physics, nanotechnology, material science, photonics or related fields, and be interested in working in an interdisciplinary environment at the interface of quantum photonics and material science.

• Your job with impact: Become part of ETH Zurich, which not only supports your professional development, but also actively contributes to positive change in society
• We are actively committed to a sustainable and climate-neutral university
• You can expect numerous benefits, such as public transport season tickets and car sharing, a wide range of sports offered by the ASVZ, childcare and attractive pension benefits

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.

We look forward to receiving your application including:

• a cover letter
• CV
• transcripts of Bachelor’s and Master’s degrees
• contact information of two referees

The earliest starting date is October 2025. Please apply until August 10th.

For further information please contact Linda Talts ([email protected]) or visit our website. 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.

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.