PhD in Electronic ICs for LIDAR (in the NiteLiDAR doctoral network) and photonic sensors

Introduction

• Do you want to specialize in mixed-signal Electronic Integrated Circuits?
• Are you eager to electronically control light, like none before?
• Do you want to design ICs to steer the next generation of FMCW LiDARs (Frequency-Modulated Continuous Wave Light Detection and Ranging)?
• Do you want to collaborate with scientists from Belgium, the Netherlands, France and Denmark?

Job Description
This PhD research focuses on the design of integrated electronics which must work together with photonic components in order to build advanced integrated photonic systems for sensing applications. An important aim is to advance the state of the art in this completely new field, achieving unprecedented accuracy and energy efficiency. The research is divided in two main steps.

In the first one you will focus on electronically controlling massive arrays of light phase shifters to steer the laser beam in LiDAR transmitters. You will investigate the challenges of massively integrating Digital-to-Analog converters onto a single chip, thereby generating the control signals needed for photonic beamformers designed for FMCW LiDAR devices. In the course of this research, we may draw upon concepts from various fields, including phased arrays, digital Sigma-Delta (ΣΔ) modulation, digital signal processing (DSP), and power-efficient IC design. The results of your research could potentially pave the way also for breakthroughs in other applications that demand large arrays of data converters, such as wireless communication, UWB ranging and automotive radar.

It is worth noting that this research forms a crucial part of a collaborative initiative within a pan-European doctoral research network called NiteLiDAR. We want to use the results of this research, together with our partners, to create innovative demonstrators for the next generation of LiDARs.

In the second step you will work at ultimately low-noise and energy efficient amplifiers to interface photonic spectral sensors for measuring at the same time Temperature and Pressure using optical fibers.

The two steps are nicely complementary, offering you a broad experience with both the control and the sensor signal conditioning in novel photonic sensing systems. In this way you will gain a broad experience in the brand new field of electronic-photonic integration.

The NiteLiDAR project is open to researchers regardless of gender, religion, ethnicity, disability, sexual orientation, political views, language, age and nationality. Applications from highly qualified applicants from outside the EU will thus be equally considered to other applicants. The integration of refugees is an EU priority and we will ensure equal opportunities to the researchers whose scientific careers have been interrupted. To ensure a gender balance in the project and work towards the European Commission’s own policies on narrowing the gap between the genders in research, should two applicants be found to be equally qualified the preference will be given to the one that will balance the gender distribution in the entire Network. After the deadline, all submitted applications will be checked against the defined admissibility and eligibility criteria (e.g. submitted electronically, readable, complete, in English, including grades and references), and applicants will be informed by email. The following interviews and selection process will be carried out by a temporary Selection Committee constituted by the Coordinator (when possible) and the supervisors. Evaluation criteria include: Scientific background, capacity for creativity and independent thinking and leadership, mentoring and presentation abilities.

Job Requirements

• A master’s degree (or an equivalent university degree) in Electric Engineering.
• Proven knowledge of analysis techniques for analogue and mixed-signal electronic circuits (data converters).
• Experience in the design of at least one analogue or mixed-signal electronic circuit of some complexity.
• A research-oriented attitude.
• Ability to work in an interdisciplinary team and interest in collaborating with industrial partners.
• Motivation to develop your teaching skills and coach students.
• Proficiency in spoken and written English (C1 level).
• Besides, Doctoral candidates funded by Doctoral Networks
  
  • must not have a doctoral degree at the date of their recruitment
  • can be of any nationality
  • should comply with the “mobility rule”: in general, they must not have resided or carried out their main activity (work, studies, etc.) in the country of the recruiting organisation for more than 12 months in the 36 months immediately before their recruitment date.

Conditions of Employment
A meaningful job in a dynamic and ambitious university, in an interdisciplinary setting and within an international network. You will work on a beautiful, green campus within walking distance of the central train station. In addition, we offer you:

• Full-time employment for four years, with an intermediate assessment after nine months. You will spend a minimum of 10% of your four-year employment on teaching tasks, with a maximum of 15% per year of your employment.
• Salary and benefits (such as a pension scheme, paid pregnancy and maternity leave, partially paid parental leave) in accordance with the Collective Labour Agreement for Dutch Universities, scale P (min. € 3,059 - max. € 3,881).
• A year-end bonus of 8.3% and annual vacation pay of 8%.
• High-quality training programs and other support to grow into a self-aware, autonomous scientific researcher. At TU/e we challenge you to take charge of your own learning process.
• An excellent technical infrastructure, on-campus children's day care and sports facilities.
• An allowance for commuting, working from home and internet costs.
• A Staff Immigration Team and a tax compensation scheme (the 30% facility) for international candidates.

About us
Eindhoven University of Technology is a leading international university within the Brainport region where scientific curiosity meets a hands-on mindset. We work in an open and collaborative way with high-tech industries to tackle complex societal challenges. Our responsible and respectful approach ensures impact — today and in the future. TU/e is home to over 13,000 students and more than 7,000 staff, forming a diverse and vibrant academic community.

The mission of the Department of Electrical Engineering is to acquire, share and transfer knowledge and understanding in the whole field of Electrical Engineering through education, research and valorization. We work towards a ‘Smart Sustainable Society’, a ‘Connected World’, and a healthy humanity (‘Care & Cure’). Activities share an application-oriented character, a high degree of complexity and a large synergy between multiple facets of the field.

Research is carried out into the applications of electromagnetic phenomena in all forms of energy conversion, telecommunication and electrical signal processing. Existing and new electrical components and systems are analyzed, designed and built. The Electrical Engineering department takes its inspiration from contacts with high-tech industry in the direct surrounding region and beyond.

The department is innovative and has international ambitions and partnerships. The result is a challenging and inspiring setting in which socially relevant issues are addressed.

Information
Do you recognize yourself in this profile and would you like to know more? Please contact the hiring manager Eugenio Cantatore, e.cantatore@tue.nl.

Visit our website for more information about the application process or the conditions of employment. You can also contact HR Services, hrservices.ee@tue.nl.

Curious to hear more about what it’s like as a PhD candidate at TU/e? Please view the video.

Are you inspired and would like to know more about working at TU/e? Please visit our career page.

Application
We invite you to submit a complete application by using the apply button. The application should include a:

• Cover letter in which you describe your motivation and qualifications for the position.
• Curriculum vitae, including a list of your publications and the contact information of three references. Kindly note that we may reach out to references at any stage of the recruitment process. We recommend notifying your references upon submitting your application.

Ensure that you submit all the requested application documents. We give priority to complete applications.

We look forward to receiving your application and will screen it as soon as possible. The vacancy will remain open until the position is filled.

Please note

• You can apply online. We will not process applications sent by email and/or post.
• A pre-employment screening (e.g. knowledge security check) can be part of the selection procedure. For more information on the knowledge security check, please consult the National Knowledge Security Guidelines.
• Please do not contact us for unsolicited services.

PhD in Electronic ICs for LIDAR (in the NiteLiDAR doctoral network) and photonic sensors

This PhD research focuses on the design of integrated electronics which must work together with photonic components in order to build advanced integrated photonic systems for sensing applications. An important aim is to advance the state of the art in this completely new field, achieving unprecedented accuracy and energy efficiency. The research is divided in two main steps.

In the first one you will focus on electronically controlling massive arrays of light phase shifters to steer the laser beam in LiDAR transmitters. You will investigate the challenges of massively integrating Digital-to-Analog converters onto a single chip, thereby generating the control signals needed for photonic beamformers designed for FMCW LiDAR devices. In the course of this research, we may draw upon concepts from various fields, including phased arrays, digital Sigma-Delta (ΣΔ) modulation, digital signal processing (DSP), and power-efficient IC design. The results of your research could potentially pave the way also for breakthroughs in other applications that demand large arrays of data converters, such as wireless communication, UWB ranging and automotive radar.

It is worth noting that this research forms a crucial part of a collaborative initiative within a pan-European doctoral research network called NiteLiDAR. We want to use the results of this research, together with our partners, to create innovative demonstrators for the next generation of LiDARs.

In the second step you will work at ultimately low-noise and energy efficient amplifiers to interface photonic spectral sensors for measuring at the same time Temperature and Pressure using optical fibers.

The two steps are nicely complementary, offering you a broad experience with both the control and the sensor signal conditioning in novel photonic sensing systems. In this way you will gain a broad experience in the brand new field of electronic-photonic integration.

The NiteLiDAR project is open to researchers regardless of gender, religion, ethnicity, disability, sexual orientation, political views, language, age and nationality. Applications from highly qualified applicants from outside the EU will thus be equally considered to other applicants. The integration of refugees is an EU priority and we will ensure equal opportunities to the researchers whose scientific careers have been interrupted. To ensure a gender balance in the project and work towards the European Commission’s own policies on narrowing the gap between the genders in research, should two applicants be found to be equally qualified the preference will be given to the one that will balance the gender distribution in the entire Network. After the deadline, all submitted applications will be checked against the defined admissibility and eligibility criteria (e.g. submitted electronically, readable, complete, in English, including grades and references), and applicants will be informed by email. The following interviews and selection process will be carried out by a temporary Selection Committee constituted by the Coordinator (when possible) and the supervisors. Evaluation criteria include: Scientific background, capacity for creativity and independent thinking and leadership, mentoring and presentation abilities.

Institute Program Manager for the Casimir Institute (0,5 - 1,0 fte)

Introduction
Are you passionate about scientific research and technology? Do you thrive in an innovative environment, surrounded by experts who share your enthusiasm? Are you excited about navigating the intricate world of funding and helping researchers achieve their goals? Do you possess strategic thinking skills and love empowering researchers to turn their visions into reality? Do you enjoy fostering connections between academia and industry, and acting as a content-driven leader? If your answer is a resounding "yes" to these questions, we want to hear from you! Let's connect and explore how we can collaborate to make a difference in the world of research.

Job Description
As an Institute Program Manager, you will be engaged in a diverse range of activities related to research funding acquisition, proposal and project development, strategic thinking and stakeholder management to meet industrial needs, and providing support to a wide variety of researchers. In your role as a Program Manager, you will assist researchers in identifying attractive funding opportunities, refining their research ideas, and funding strategy, coordinating (inter-)national consortia, linking researchers' competencies with industry needs, and articulating their research vision with clarity and precision. You will collaborate closely with researchers, other Institute Program Managers and Project Development officers (PDOs) from the TU/e departments involved in the Casimir Institute, as well as industrial fellows and the research centers, and colleagues in supporting roles such as finance, legal, and HR. The focus of your activities will be part of the Equipment and Components domain, which is one of the four research domains within the Casimir Institute.

The Research Support Office (RSO) is the central Research Support Office of TU/e and consists of a small, close-knit team of professionals who support the scientific staff in applying for European and national grants for research. The RSO team further consists of research funding advisors, grant consultants, corporate lawyers, and project managers.

As Institute Program Manager Casimir you will be embedded in the RSO and from there be allocated to work for Casimir. You will become part of a larger team of Institute Program Managers and Research Support staff for other TU/e institutes such as EAISI, EIRES and ICMS. This allows knowledge exchange and team building with colleagues with a similar role, albeit for a different institute.
See also https://www.tue.nl/en/research/research-support-network/research-support-office

You will be positioned in the Casimir Institute and be part of the TU/e-wide research support network. This is a position that offers lots of freedom and opportunities to define and shape your role, and ample space for personal development and growth. Your daily activities consist of:

• Proactively supporting researchers in the acquisition of research projects.
• Matching opportunities to the expertise and research interests of researchers in the institute by communicating the current and future developments in both the national and European funding landscape.
• Helping build consortia, by enriching the researchers’ network with internal or external collaborators.
• Be an influencing member in relevant (NL and EU) networks.
• Have deep understanding of specific collaborative programs in the national and European funding landscape
• Form, build and maintain communities around equipment and components, where researchers from various departments collaborate.
• Manage the proposal development of complex, multi-disciplinary projects proposals, in good cooperation with departmental research support (PDOs and others).
• Initiate and create research programs directly with industry.
• Strategic networking and lobbying to increase funding opportunities.
• Support the head of science for equipment and components in creating and developing all the activities related to that domain.

The institute and the domain
Casimir Institute for future chips and high-tech systems
Chips and systems are the invisible infrastructure of modern life, powering AI, enabling green technologies, advancing healthcare, and driving digital transformation. The Casimir Institute catalyzes innovation across disciplines by bringing together 700 researchers under one roof, and delivering tangible solutions for a sustainable digital information society. Located in the heart of Europe’s Brainport region, we are establishing the Chips and Systems University of Europe. Our mission is to secure Europe’s technological sovereignty by accelerating innovation in chip technologies and high-tech systems, aligned with the European Chips Act and the Draghi Report. See also https://www.tue.nl/en/research/institutes/casimir-institute.

Equipment and Components Domain
Equipment and Components is one of the four research domains within the Casimir institute. High-tech equipment such as wafer scanners, production printers, medical imaging systems, and electron microscopes delivers extreme system performance, regarding accuracy and productivity, under extremely well-controlled physical conditions, such as pressure and temperature. Performance-cost ratio and first-time right requirements are increasing from one generation of equipment to the next, constantly pushing the boundaries of what is possible.

In addition, equipment and components are highly heterogeneous, encompassing mechanical and electronic hardware, digital software, communication networks, and deep physiochemical processes that are intricately connected and influence each other. This exemplifies the present complexity of such systems, with a rapidly growing increase in complexity over time. As a consequence, the gap between what is physically feasible and what is achieved by state-of-the-art and state-of-practice design technologies and methodologies, is constantly growing.

Job Requirements

• Preferably a Master's degree in Electrical, Mechanical, or Computer Engineering (or other relevant Engineering degree).
• At least 5 years of experience in a similar role
• Excellent networking, analytical, organizational, and negotiation skills.
• Ability to work independently, with a focus on results, and a deadline-driven approach.
• Fluent in English (both oral and written).
• Keen interest in cyber-physical systems, high-tech equipment, and the associated funding landscape, with experience or interest in grant writing.
• Experience with European and national projects, particularly in dealing with (inter)national Project Officers (POs) or policy makers.
• Ability to plan, organize events and monitor progress, including establishing review procedures, risk monitoring, document archiving, progress reporting, and providing administrative support.
• In-depth knowledge of industrial and other relevant stakeholders in the Brainport region.
• Excellent interpersonal skills, with a willingness to work in a multicultural and multidisciplinary environment as a team player.
• Proven experience in working with scientists in a research-intensive environment.
• Create and maintain a network with departmental research support (PDOs and others) to jointly support the aims of the Equipment and Components research domain.

Conditions of Employment
An exciting position within an international yet personal university. You are right in the middle of the students, on a green campus within walking distance of the central station. Besides beautiful architecture, you will find varied workplaces and excellent sports facilities. We also offer you:

• A monthly salary of minimum € 5.705,- to maximum € 7.297,- for full-time employment, depending on your knowledge and experience (scale 12 collective labour agreementfor Dutch Universities).
• In addition to vacation pay, a structural end-of-year bonus of 8.3%.
• A favorable arrangement for more holidays or a sabbatical.
• A selection model for additional fringe benefits.
• Working hours in consultation for an optimal work-life balance.
• Scope for your talent with advancement prospects and excellent development opportunities such as mentoring, workshops and coaching.
• Partially paid parental leave and reimbursement for commuting expenses, working from home and the internet.
• A generous employer contribution to the favorable ABP pension plan.

Here you can discover even more information about our conditions of employment. Build on your career at TU/e!

About us
Eindhoven University of Technology is a leading international university within the Brainport region where scientific curiosity meets a hands-on mindset. We work in an open and collaborative way with high-tech industries to tackle complex societal challenges. Our responsible and respectful approach ensures impact — today and in the future. TU/e is home to over 13,000 students and more than 7,000 staff, forming a diverse and vibrant academic community.

Research Support and Valorization consists of the Research Support Office (RSO) and startup helpdesk The Gate. RSO supports and unburdens researchers with obtaining external funding for their research and developing project proposals. At The Gate, business developers and IP-experts offer support in translating research results into successful innovations and new companies.

Information
Do you recognize yourself in this profile and would you like to have more information about the position, please contact Olaf van der Sluis (O.v.d.Sluis@tue.nl), Head of Science for the Equipment and Components Domain.

For questions about the application process or the conditions of employment, please contact
hrservices.supportunits@tue.nl or +31 40 247 2421.

Are you inspired and would like to know more about working at TU/e? Please visit our career page.

Application
If you are interested, please use the ‘apply’ button to send us your CV and letter of application with your motivation and a description of your qualifications. Ensure that you submit all the requested application documents. We give priority to complete applications.

Screening of candidates begins as soon as applications are received and continues until the position is filled. Where applicable, internal candidates will be given priority over external candidates where they are equally suitable.

We look forward to receiving your application!

Please note

• You can apply online. We will not process applications sent by email and/or post.
• A pre-employment screening (e.g. knowledge security check) can be part of the selection procedure. For more information on the knowledge security check, please consult the National Knowledge Security Guidelines.
• Important for non-EU applicants: Please be aware that for this position, specific residence permit requirements apply. If you are a non-EU national, you may not be eligible to legally work in this role under current Dutch immigration regulations. We strongly advise you to contact our Staff Immigration Team (staffimmigration@tue.nl) before applying to check your eligibility and to receive further guidance.
• Please do not contact us for unsolicited services.

Institute Program Manager for the Casimir Institute (0,5 - 1,0 fte)

As an Institute Program Manager, you will be engaged in a diverse range of activities related to research funding acquisition, proposal and project development, strategic thinking and stakeholder management to meet industrial needs, and providing support to a wide variety of researchers. In your role as a Program Manager, you will assist researchers in identifying attractive funding opportunities, refining their research ideas, and funding strategy, coordinating (inter-)national consortia, linking researchers' competencies with industry needs, and articulating their research vision with clarity and precision. You will collaborate closely with researchers, other Institute Program Managers and Project Development officers (PDOs) from the TU/e departments involved in the Casimir Institute, as well as industrial fellows and the research centers, and colleagues in supporting roles such as finance, legal, and HR. The focus of your activities will be part of the Equipment and Components domain, which is one of the four research domains within the Casimir Institute.

The Research Support Office (RSO) is the central Research Support Office of TU/e and consists of a small, close-knit team of professionals who support the scientific staff in applying for European and national grants for research. The RSO team further consists of research funding advisors, grant consultants, corporate lawyers, and project managers.

As Institute Program Manager Casimir you will be embedded in the RSO and from there be allocated to work for Casimir. You will become part of a larger team of Institute Program Managers and Research Support staff for other TU/e institutes such as EAISI, EIRES and ICMS. This allows knowledge exchange and team building with colleagues with a similar role, albeit for a different institute.
See also https://www.tue.nl/en/research/research-support-network/research-support-office

You will be positioned in the Casimir Institute and be part of the TU/e-wide research support network. This is a position that offers lots of freedom and opportunities to define and shape your role, and ample space for personal development and growth. Your daily activities consist of:

• Proactively supporting researchers in the acquisition of research projects.
• Matching opportunities to the expertise and research interests of researchers in the institute by communicating the current and future developments in both the national and European funding landscape.
• Helping build consortia, by enriching the researchers’ network with internal or external collaborators.
• Be an influencing member in relevant (NL and EU) networks.
• Have deep understanding of specific collaborative programs in the national and European funding landscape
• Form, build and maintain communities around equipment and components, where researchers from various departments collaborate.
• Manage the proposal development of complex, multi-disciplinary projects proposals, in good cooperation with departmental research support (PDOs and others).
• Initiate and create research programs directly with industry.
• Strategic networking and lobbying to increase funding opportunities.
• Support the head of science for equipment and components in creating and developing all the activities related to that domain.

Full Professors In Architectural Research and Design

The successful candidate will manage a Research Chair, be actively engaged in research, will supervise PhD’s and will be responsible for delivering studio education at both the BA and MA level, as well as core lecture courses and seminars appropriate to the Chair’s focus. The Chair is expected to bring in research funding and attract PhD’s.

We are especially interested in candidates with a research focus on one of the following fields:

• Housing
• Circular and bio-based design
• Climate resilient design
• Typologies and design methodology
• Computational design and the future of practice

We are looking for colleagues with rich knowledge and experience in research and design , whose approach pushes the boundaries of architectural knowledge and practice towards the pressing challenges of the present. We are looking for a colleague whose approaches complement and expand AUDE’s existing Research Chairs (see below).

AUDE
The unit AUDE consists of Research Chairs, each led by a Full Professor, of which currently two positions are open. AUDE integrates architecture with engineering to address complex spatial challenges, focusing on creating resilient built environments and on the transformative potential of design.

With a commitment to both historical and theoretical discourse as well as the contemporary practice of architecture, AUDE approaches the built environment from a combined perspective where thinking and doing are mutually reinforcing. This position is made explicit in both education and research.

Ultimately, AUDE stands for critical and innovative attitudes toward social, cultural, political, economic, and environmental issues, leveraging scholarship, design and technology to propose inventive solutions for the pressing issues in our built environment, today and into the future.

The three active Research Chairs are:

• AHT: the Chair of Architectural History and Theory (AHT) supports three research streams: History and Decarbonization, Climate and Heritage, and the Curatorial Research Collective. Through research, teaching, and other collaborative activities the chair examines how critical analysis of the built environment supports disciplinary and social transformation. Chairholder: Prof. Daniel A. Barber
• ADE: the Chair of Architectural Design and Engineering (ADE) focuses on the essence of the architectural profession: the harmonious fusion of architectural design and technical expertise. Key research areas include sustainability and circularity in architectural design, transformations, emerging building technologies, and exploring materiality's role in architectural design. Chairholder: Prof. Juliette Bekkering, part-time Prof. Jacob van Rijs
• SAT: the Chair of Smart Architectural Technologies (SAT) investigates how emerging technologies transform the way we design, inhabit, and care for the Built Environment. Focusing on housing futures and everyday living environments, SAT develops theoretical frameworks and real-life prototypes for Empathic Environments, adaptive and inclusive settings that respond to both human and environmental needs. Through this approach, the chair bridges technological innovation with social relevance, advancing architecture as an interdisciplinary design science. Chairholder: Prof. Masi Mohammadi, part-time Prof. Tom. Frantzen.

The new professors will be expected to develop a new Research Chair, and to expand the impact of their unique research in dialogue and collaboration with the other chairs in AUDE as well as other units in BE and TU/e.

Research Chairs are also engaged in education, teaching across the curriculum from required lecture courses to studios, and in working collectively on the changing demands of architectural education.

In addition to these three Research Chairs, clusters of teaching faculty in AUDE provide education at the Bachelor and Master level, with a focus on type, form and design method; media and making; strategies of reuse and transformation; and urbanism.

Built Environment at Eindhoven University of Technology
The Department of the Built Environment advances knowledge of the built environment through education, research and impact. We address urgent societal challenges on a systemic level by combining a unique, broad, and inspiring range of design, technology, and engineering disciplines. With over 330 talented staff members and PHD’s and approximately 1500 students from various nationalities, the department is organized across four disciplinary units:

• Architecture, Urban Design and Engineering (AUDE);
• Urban Systems and Real Estate (USRE);
• Structural Engineering and Design (SED);
• Building Physics and Services (BPS).

While each unit has its own specific in-depth disciplinary focus, they work closely together in the department’s education programs and research projects. The department is equipped with several state-of-the-art facilities, from laboratories to robotic facilities and workshops. Here scientific curiosity is explored and materialized in providing comprehensive answers to some of the most pressing societal transitions.