Master Thesis - Brillouin-Active Integrated Photonics (all genders)

We are seeking a motivated Master Student to carry out a Master Thesis in the field of nonlinear integrated photonics, in collaboration with an established industrial and research partner. This thesis focuses on advanced optical modulation techniques and experimental characterization of photonic systems.

You will work on the implementation and analysis of coherent modulation schemes, including IQ modulation for carrier-suppressed single-sideband (CS-SSB) operation and dual-sideband modulation. The work combines numerical modeling, hands-on experimental characterization, and system-level demonstrations using heterodyne measurement techniques.

If you are eager to deepen your expertise in integrated photonics, optical modulation, and experimental photonics, this thesis offers an excellent opportunity to develop strong technical and research skills.

Your future tasks include:

• Development and analysis of integrated photonic modulation schemes:
  • Conducting a focused literature review on coherent optical modulation and photonic integrated circuits.
  • Implementing and analyzing IQ modulation schemes for CS-SSB generation.
  • Investigating and comparing dual-sideband modulation techniques.
• Experimental characterization of photonic and acousto-optic components:
  • Characterizing the performance of an acousto-optic modulator (AOM).
  • Setting up and performing heterodyne measurement experiments.
  • Analyzing measured data and extracting key performance metrics.
• Numerical modeling and data analysis using dedicated simulation and scripting tools (e.g., Matlab, Python, Comsol).
• Documenting results and presenting outcomes in the form of a Master’s thesis and internal presentations.

Your profile:

• Bachelor’s degree in Physics, Electrical Engineering, Photonics, or a related field, and currently enrolled in a Master’s program (EU university), with good academic performance.
• Preferred skills:
  • Basic knowledge of integrated photonics and optical modulation formats.
  • Familiarity with coherent optical systems and RF–optical signal processing.
  • Hands-on experience with optical laboratory equipment and measurement techniques (heterodyne measurements are an advantage).
• Experience with Matlab, Python, Comsol, or similar numerical and data-analysis tools.
• Motivated, detail-oriented, and eager to learn, with the ability to work independently as well as collaboratively within a research team.
• Good written and verbal communication skills in English, with the ability to clearly document and present technical results using standard Microsoft Office tools.

Important Facts about SAL:

• Duration: 6 months
• Diverse research activities with many technical challenges.
• State-of-the-art laboratory facilities and equipment.
• Family & children friendly - actively shaping the compatibility of family and career.
• “Vital4SAL” to promote a healthy workplace (e.g. SAL coaching pool, trainings on mental health, physical activities, healthy snacks, 24/7 accident insurance)
• € 4 per day meal allowance in restaurants or € 2 per working day in supermarkets.
• Free coffee/milk/tea & fresh fruits.
• Our values: Open door policy, flexibility in working hours, casual dress code, diverse teams, working with people of different nationalities, informal communication, lifelong learning, compatibility of family and career, sustainability, personal growth, and collective advancement.

This position is subject to the Collective Agreement for employees in non-university research (Research CA).  For this position, we offer a monthly gross salary of EUR 1.991, paid 14 times a year.