PhD Student in Topological Photonics - DTU Electro
Conditions
Appointment based on the collective agreement with the Danish Confederation of Professional Associations.
Allowance will be agreed upon with the relevant union.
Employment period is 3 years.
Starting date as early as possible by mutual agreement.
Submit complete online application as one PDF file by 1 February 2026 (23:59 Danish time).
Candidates may apply before obtaining a master's degree but cannot begin before receiving it.
Tasks
Carry out theoretical and computational work in topological photonics and nanophotonics.
Perform numerical computation and theoretical analysis of photonic properties for candidate designs.
Build effective and conceptual models to inform theoretical understanding.
Develop code and theory frameworks to address new topological phenomena.
Propose and evaluate designs for experimental proof-of-principle demonstrations based on project results.
Complete PhD courses and participate in teaching activities.
Conduct an external research stay.
Disseminate research through publications.
Interact with and visit international collaborators.
Requirements
Must have a two-year master's degree (120 ECTS points) or an equivalent academic level.
Background in photonics and condensed-matter physics.
Passion for theoretical and computational physics and a structured, mathematical mindset.
Excellent GPA or a proven track-record of relevant research.
Subject to academic approval and enrollment in a general degree program at DTU.
The file must include:
The Quantum and Nanophotonics section at DTU Electro is seeking an excellent and highly motivated PhD student to be a part of a program on ‘Symmetry-guided discovery of topological photonics’, led by Assoc.
Approval and Enrolment
Assessment
Candidates will be assessed by Assoc.
Thomas Christensen and Prof.
Jesper Mørk.
We offer
DTU is a leading technical university globally recognized for the excellence of its research, education, innovation and scientific advice.
The project will be supervised by Assoc.
Thomas Christensen.
Salary and appointment terms
You can read more about career paths at DTU here http://www.dtu.dk/english/about/job-and-career/working-at-dtu/career-paths.
Further information
For questions, please contact Thomas Christensen (, tel.: +45 50 30 65 52).
You can read more about DTU Electro and the Quantum and Nanophotonics Section here.
If you are applying from abroad, you may find useful information on working in Denmark and at DTU at DTU – Moving to Denmark.
Application procedure
To apply, please open the link "Apply now", fill out the online application form, and attach all your materials in English in one PDF file.
A letter motivating the application (cover letter)
Curriculum vitae
Grade transcripts and BSc/MSc diploma (in English) including official description of grading scale
List of 1-2 academic references
A writing sample, e.g., MSc thesis (or draft), BSc thesis, project report, or similar illustrating your work and your dissemination of it in your own writing.
Applications may be assessed on a running basis.
Following evaluation of applications, a selection of applicants will be invited for follow-up interviews.
Applications received after the deadline will not be considered.
All interested candidates irrespective of age, gender, race, disability, religion, or ethnic background are encouraged to apply.
We value an inclusive and diverse environment and believe that a diversity of backgrounds and experiences is essential in fostering a creative and successful academic environment.
DTU Electro has 350 employees and span activities in physics, photonics, and electrical engineering.
Research is performed within nanophotonics, lasers, quantum photonics, optical sensors, LEDs, photovoltaics, ultra-high speed optical transmission systems, and bio-photonics.
Technology for people
DTU develops technology for people.
With our international elite research and study programmes, we are helping to create a better world and to solve the global challenges formulated in the UN’s 17 Sustainable Development Goals.
Hans Christian Ørsted founded DTU in 1829 with a clear mission to develop and create value using science and engineering to benefit society.
That mission lives on today.
DTU has 13,500 students and 6,000 employees.
We work in an international atmosphere and have an inclusive, evolving, and informal working environment.
DTU has campuses in all parts of Denmark and in Greenland, and we collaborate with the best universities around the world.
Preferred
Prior experience in research regarding photonic crystals, band topology, or symmetry analysis is an advantage.
Benefits
Rewarding and challenging job in an international environment.
Environment characterized by collegial respect and academic freedom.
Option to join a monthly free seminar regarding relocation to Denmark and working as a PhD at DTU.
The amount is automatically converted to EUR using the current exchange rate. After successful payment, an invoice will be issued according to the billing details listed below in your user profile.