PostDoc on Integrated Magneto-Photonic Memories from a Circuit Perspective

Position

(Post-doctoral) Researcher

Department(s)

Applied Physics

Reference number

V34.5131

Optical switching of spintronic and/or magnetic elements offers a path to high-bandwidth and energy-efficient memory. Within the present NWO Gravitation excellence program, researchers at the departments of Applied Physics and Electrical Engineering have been working on a novel class of hybrid magneto-photonic devices for possible use as ultrafast and ultra-low power integrated photonic memory. So far, research activities have focused on design, fabrication and proof-of-principle demonstrations at the device level.

We are now ready to explore the next level. We are looking for a postdoc to take the lead in setting up a novel research line on this integrated photonic memory from a circuit perspective. The candidate will intensively collaborate with researchers from both departments in a joint project, to explore novel architectures, addressing energy efficiency and added functionality in view of future applications, combining simulations and system analysis. The candidate will profit from and bring synergy to the worldwide recognized expertise in integrated photonics and ultrafast magnetization dynamics/spintronics at TU/e.

Research

Ultrathin ferromagnetic magnetic films structured on top of photonic waveguides are envisioned to provide a basis for optically writable and readable memory elements. Recently, we demonstrated 2-bit repetition rates of 50 GHz, and a switching energy of ~10 fJ/bit when scaled down to 50x50 nm2 bits. First efforts for photonic integration of these functionalities are in progress. The new postdoc will analyze different architectures, consisting of so-called optical networks-on-chip, to selectively switch memory elements, with the aim to optimize these with respect to energy-efficiency and bandwidth, and compare these with existing memory technologies.  Different key components, such as switches, lasers and waveguides, will be assessed, in complementary architectures (such as the so-called “magnetic racetrack” vs. optically addressable magnetic tunnel junctions). Design requirements for circuits (such as optimizing WDM approaches for massive parallelism) and elementary devices (specs on optical losses, data rate, switching energy, resolution, tolerated spintronic driving currents, etc.) will be derived.  These outcomes will also serve as guides for future materials and device research. With the outcome of this project we hope to unlock a new field of magneto-optic and photonic integrated circuits, and get a clear view on the ultimate application potential.

For this position we are looking for a talented and highly motivated candidate, with an applied physics, electrical engineering or hybrid background with demonstrated affinity with the type of work described. The candidate should hold a recently obtained PhD degree when starting the position. Experience in the field of integrated photonics, nanomagnetism/spintronics, and/or (ultrafast) magneto-optics, is required and the candidate should display the creativity and drive to tackle different aspects of a complex problem with large independence. The drive to bridge different disciplines and look for synergy in a new field is essential. The position is for two years and is embedded in the NWO Gravitation excellence program within the research area Integrated Photonics (https://www.tue.nl/en/research/research-areas/integrated-photonics/ ).

• A meaningful job in a dynamic and ambitious university with the possibility to present your work at international conferences.
• A full-time employment for 2 years.
• You will have free access to high-quality training programs on general skills, didactics and topics related to research and valorization.
• A gross monthly salary and benefits in accordance with the Collective Labor Agreement for Dutch Universities.
• A broad package of fringe benefits (including an excellent technical infrastructure, moving expenses, and savings schemes).
• Family-friendly initiatives are in place, such as an international spouse program, and excellent on-campus children day care and sports facilities.

This project will be carried out in the group Physics of Nanostructure at the department of Applied Physics and the group Photonic Integration at the department of Electrical Engineering of the TU/e. The position is part of the Gravitation project on Integrated NanoPhotonics.

More information

Do you recognize yourself in this profile and would you like to know more? Please contact
prof.dr. Bert Koopmans (b.koopmans[at]tue.nl), department Applied Physics or
prof.dr.ir. Martijn Heck (m.heck[at]tue.nl), department Electrical Engineering

For information about terms of employment, click here or contact HRServices.flux[at]tue.nl

Please visit www.tue.nl/jobs to find out more about working at TU/e!

Application

We invite you to submit a complete application by using the 'apply now'-button on this page.
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.
• List of five self-selected ‘best publications’.

We look forward to your application and will screen it as soon as we have received it.
Screening will continue until the position has been filled.