We are in search of highly driven PhD candidates passionate about forging new paths in on-chip chip-scale mode-locked lasers. These systems are key to advancing scalable quantum systems utilizing trapped ions, cold atoms, and solid-state defects.

The current landscape of photonic integrated optical frequency combs, including III-V laser diodes pumped Kerr frequency combs, holds considerable promise for achieving scalable quantum systems. Yet, their performance still doesn't match what's achievable with conventional tabletop free-space or fiber laser systems. During this PhD, candidates will investigate how solid-state gain media will allow for ultra-low-noise optical frequency combs generated by chip-scale mode-locked lasers.

Furthermore, this PhD opportunity is a part of the exciting "LASIQ" project, supported by an ERC starting grant, offering the chance to contribute to a vibrant research team.

Job description

For this project you will be working in a research team led by Prof. Kasper Van Gasse within the Photonics Research Group of Ghent University and imec. The main goal is to allow the PhD researcher to create novel photonic integrated laser systems and develop all the necessary skills in photonic integration needed for a further career as photonic researcher.

The estimated breakdown of the research activity is approximately 40% clean room work and process development, 35% optical simulations (Lumerical, mode solvers, FDTD, inverse design, …) and 25% optical experiments. Depending on the preference of the student this can be adjusted.