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Develop new imaging technology with ultrafast extreme ultraviolet light sources

Job description

Microscopy with extreme ultraviolet (EUV) radiation is a powerful approach for materials science and semiconductor metrology. A specific challenge in building such an EUV microscope is that optical components are not readily available at such short wavelengths. We therefore develop 'lensless' imaging methods, such as ptychography, in which we reconstruct object images from measured diffraction data. We produce coherent EUV radiation using a process called high-harmonic generation (HHG), which is an extremely nonlinear optical process in a gas, driven by an ultrafast laser.

In this project, you will use lensless imaging methods, both for imaging nanostructures, and to study the HHG process itself. In imaging nanostructures, we will focus on imaging reflective structures that contain multiple materials, with the aim to retrieve 3D structural information and local elemental composition.

One powerful property of ptychography is that it can be used to retrieve images of nanoscale objects and the illuminating light field itself. We can therefore use it to characterize the wavefront of extreme ultraviolet beams, and in that way study the HHG process under various conditions, such as when using structured laser fields. Through such imaging experiments, we can study the influence of strong-field effects and ultrafast nonlinear propagation dynamics in HHG.

You will be part of the Optics for Nanoscale Metrology team, in the Optics cluster of the department of Imaging Physics at TU Delft. In this team, consisting of several PhD students, postdocs and undergraduates, we focus on developing new concepts for 3D imaging of nanostructures, using light.

Job requirements

• A masters degree in Physics or a related subject.
• Strong affinity with experimental research in optics, ultrafast lasers, strong-field light-matter interaction and/or coherent diffractive imaging.
• Good communication skills (verbal and written) in English are required.
• Strong analytical skills, critical thinking, and a creative approach to problem solving.
• Ability to work in a multidisciplinary team as well as individually.

TU Delft (Delft University of Technology)

Working at TU Delft means contributing to solutions that really make a difference. For over 180 years, we have been training engineers who make an impact worldwide in companies, government bodies, or as entrepreneurs. Our alumni turn knowledge into concrete solutions for the challenges of today and tomorrow. These challenges are changing rapidly. That is why we focus on themes such as energy, climate, digitalisation, artificial intelligence (AI), and smart mobility every day. Our education and research are directly aligned with what society needs now and in the future. At TU Delft, our people make the difference. With their knowledge and curiosity, our staff provide a high-quality education and conduct pioneering research that extends beyond the campus. You will have the opportunity to take the initiative, work with others, and grow as a professional. Working at TU Delft means join an international community of professionals and students. Together, we create knowledge, innovations, and solutions that help move the world forward.

Faculty Applied Sciences

With more than 1,100 employees, including 150 pioneering principal investigators, as well as a population of about 3,600 passionate students, the Faculty of Applied Sciences is an inspiring scientific ecosystem. Focusing on key enabling technologies, such as quantum- and nanotechnology, photonics, biotechnology, synthetic biology and materials for energy storage and conversion, our faculty aims to provide solutions to important problems of the 21st century. To that end, we educate innovative students in broad Bachelor's and specialist Master's programmes with a strong research component. Our scientists conduct ground-breaking fundamental and applied research in the fields of Life and Health Science & Technology, Nanoscience, Chemical Engineering, Radiation Science & Technology, and Engineering Physics. We are also training the next generation of high school teachers.

Click here to go to the website of the Faculty of Applied Sciences.

Conditions of employment

Doctoral candidates will be offered a 4-year period of employment in principle, but in the form of 2 employment contracts. An initial 1,5 year contract with an official go/no go progress assessment within 15 months. Followed by an additional contract for the remaining 2,5 years assuming everything goes well and performance requirements are met.

Salary and benefits are in accordance with the Collective Labour Agreement for Dutch Universities, increasing from €3059 - €3881 gross per month, from the first year to the fourth year based on a fulltime contract (38 hours), plus 8% holiday allowance and an end-of-year bonus of 8.3%.

As a PhD candidate you will be enrolled in the TU Delft Graduate School. The TU Delft Graduate School provides an inspiring research environment with an excellent team of supervisors, academic staff and a mentor. The Doctoral Education Programme is aimed at developing your transferable, discipline-related and research skills.

The TU Delft offers a customisable compensation package, discounts on health insurance, and a monthly work costs contribution. Flexible work schedules can be arranged.

Will you need to relocate to the Netherlands for this job? TU Delft is committed to make your move as smooth as possible! The HR unit, Coming to Delft Service, offers information on their website to help you prepare your relocation. In addition, Coming to Delft Service organises events to help you settle in the Netherlands, and expand your (social) network in Delft. A Dual Career Programme is available, to support your accompanying partner with their job search in the Netherlands.

Additional information

If you would like more information about this vacancy or the selection procedure, please contact Prof. Stefan Witte, via S.M.Witte@tudelft.nl.

Application procedure

Are you interested in this vacancy? Please apply no later than 14 July 2026 via the application button and upload the following documents:

• CV
• Cover letter (1 page). In your cover letter, make sure to explain your motivation for this project.

You can address your application to Prof. Stefan Witte.

Doing a PhD at TU Delft requires English proficiency at a certain level to ensure that the candidate is able to communicate and interact well, participate in English-taught Doctoral Education courses, and write scientific articles and a final thesis. For more details please check the Graduate Schools Admission Requirements.

Please note:

• You can apply online. We will not process applications sent by email and/or post.
• As part of knowledge security, TU Delft conducts a risk assessment during the recruitment of personnel. We do this, among other things, to prevent the unwanted transfer of sensitive knowledge and technology. The assessment is based on information provided by the candidates themselves, such as their motivation letter and CV, and takes place at the final stages of the selection process. When the outcome of the assessment is negative, the candidate will be informed. The processing of personal data in the context of the risk assessment is carried out on the legal basis of the GDPR: performing a public task in the public interest. You can find more information about this assessment on our website about knowledge security.
• Please do not contact us for unsolicited services.