PhD position: Nano Photonics with Fibre Cavities (P2605)

The advertised PhD position focuses on nano‑photonics with fibre cavities and is hosted jointly by the Photonic Ultrafast Systems Group and the Nano‑Photonics Group at the University of Basel and the University of Applied Sciences and Arts Northwestern Switzerland. These groups create ultrafast laser systems for biomedicine, micro‑material processing and optical communications, while also pursuing quantum‑information hardware such as single‑photon sources and spin qubits. The research work will centre on designing and fabricating micron‑scale fibre cavities that provide high coupling efficiency and custom nano‑structured mirrors. Daily tasks include generating and measuring sub‑micron Bessel beams, carrying out femtosecond laser nano‑machining on glass substrates, refining laser parameters to produce optimal mirror templates, and assembling open micro‑cavities for quantum‑communication experiments. In parallel, the candidate will develop a high‑repetition‑rate pulsed laser for telecom applications and a deterministic single‑photon source for quantum technologies. Applicants must hold a bachelor's or master's degree in physics, photonics, engineering or a closely related discipline and demonstrate strong motivation for hands‑on experimental laboratory work. These core qualifications are essential for the role. Additional assets valued by the supervisors are prior experience with femtosecond laser systems or quantum‑optics experiments, competence in scientific programming and data analysis using tools such as Python or MATLAB, and proven communication and teamwork abilities. The position offers an interdisciplinary, collaborative setting that bridges state‑of‑the‑art ultrafast optics work in Windisch/Brugg (about 30 minutes from Zürich and 45 minutes from Basel) with cutting‑edge quantum‑optics research in central Basel. The PhD candidate will join the Swiss Nanoscience Institute (SNI) PhD school, benefiting from a vibrant community of roughly 30 researchers, regular social events, soft‑skill training, and a competitive Swiss doctoral salary. Applications must be submitted by 31 December 2026, and the vacancy can be filled at any time thereafter. What the role asks for: - BS or MS degree in physics, photonics, engineering or related field - Highly motivated for applied experimental laboratory work - Experience with femtosecond lasers (nice-to-have) - Experience with quantum optics (nice-to-have) - Proficiency in scientific programming (Python, MATLAB or similar) (nice-to-have) - Strong communication and teamwork skills (nice-to-have)