Research Associate (Postdoctoral Researcher) at the Institute of Photonics

About the Role

The Institute of Photonics at Hamburg University of Technology is engaged in cutting-edge research in nanophotonics, metasurfaces, and nanoscale light-matter interactions. The group integrates advanced nanofabrication, optical spectroscopy, and theoretical design to create active and nonlinear photonic nanostructures using plasmonic, dielectric, and two-dimensional material technologies. Research focuses include tunable metasurfaces, exciton-photon coupling, nonlinear optical effects, and nanoscale light sources.

We invite applications for a full-time, fixed-term postdoctoral position starting on 1 September 2026 and lasting until 29 February 2028. The successful candidate will be responsible for developing and integrating 2D materials into innovative nanophotonic devices, optimizing nanofabrication protocols, and conducting comprehensive optical, electrical, and structural characterization. This role offers collaboration opportunities with graduate students and international research partners.

Key Responsibilities

• Design and production of nanophotonic devices utilizing two-dimensional materials and van der Waals heterostructures.
• Development and refinement of advanced nanofabrication techniques.
• Execution of optical and optoelectronic device characterization.
• Conduct electromagnetic simulations and perform detailed analysis of experimental results.
• Participate in joint research projects and provide supervision to graduate-level researchers.

Candidate Profile

Required qualifications:

• Completed higher education in Electrical Engineering, Materials Science, or a closely related discipline (Master's degree or equivalent minimum).

Preferred expertise and skills:

• PhD degree in Electrical Engineering, Materials Science, or a related field.
• Hands-on experience with van der Waals heterostructure nanofabrication techniques such as exfoliation, heterostructure assembly, and electron-beam lithography.
• Profound knowledge of optical and optoelectronic characterization methods including reflectance, scattering, photoluminescence, and Raman spectroscopy.
• Competency in electromagnetic modeling, quantitative data interpretation, and scientific programming tailored for nanophotonic experiments.
• Strong organizational capabilities and excellent communication proficiency to manage lab infrastructure and collaborative efforts.
• Familiarity with advanced metasurface concepts (Bound States in the Continuum, inverse design) and polariton phenomena in TMDC semiconductor systems is advantageous.

Employment Benefits

• Engagement within a supportive and welcoming professional setting.
• Comprehensive onboarding and ongoing training.
• Flexible and family-oriented work environment.
• Option for mobile working arrangements.
• Generous annual leave entitlement of 30 days.

Additional Information

Hamburg University of Technology is committed to family friendliness, sustainability, and excellence across its research fields. The University fosters interdisciplinary, innovative, and international collaboration with about 8,000 students and 1,650 staff members. A modern leadership culture and respectful communication are key principles. Employment is subject to a regulatory security inquiry as mandated under Section 34a of the Hamburg Security Clearance Act.

Diversity is strongly encouraged; applications from all backgrounds and identities are welcomed and appreciated.

Please submit your full application, including a cover letter, detailed CV, proof of qualifications, and references, exclusively through the official application platform.

Contact: Prof. Andreas Tittl, phone +49 40 30601 3247, email: andreas.tittl@tuhh.de