Mid-infrared photonic integrated circuits (PICs) are a novel type of functional optoelectronic devices for spectroscopy, that combine multiple elements such as lasers, detectors, waveguides, modulators and/or filters on one single chip. 
In this PhD thesis the next generation of such functional mid-infrared PICs will be developed. A special focus is put on the passive components, i.e. waveguides and modulators, as crucial elements, that so far still lack maturity on the currently available PICs. 
To achieve this, the candidate will work with state of the art design tools to model and optimize these passive elements as part of the whole chip, contribute to the process design of the final devices and be part of the team of their fabrication in our state-of-the-art cleanroom. The final mid-infrared PICs will then be characterized and used in on-chip sensing experiments.  

The research will involve:

• Design and development of novel mid-infrared photonic integrated circuits (PICs) with a focus on passive components (low-loss waveguides, efficient splitters/combiners, high-speed modulators, optical filters) for sensing applications
• Explore novel concepts & thin film-based material systems
• Integrate (monolithic, hybrid) the passive components with active mid-infrared lasers and detectors based on well-known III-V material systems (InP, InAs, GaSb)
• Develop fabrication processes for the photonic devices in the R&D cleanroom facilities and in collaboration with the process engineers  
• Conduct electro-optical testing of the devices for optimizing the design 
• Participate in first sensing experiments with external partners from academia and industry 
• Be part of the scientific dissemination of the results (conferences, journal papers, patents) 

• Application deadline: 3 November 2024
• Weekly working hours: 38.5
• Diversified research activities with plenty of technical challenges.
• State-of-the-art lab facilities and instruments.
• Internal and external training opportunities for further development.
• Home Office possible.
• € 4 per day food allowance in restaurants or € 2 per day in supermarkets.
• Family & kids friendly.
• Free coffee/milk/tea & fresh fruits.

For this position you will receive a monthly gross salary of EUR 3,827, which will be paid 14 times a year. Financial support for housing for stays abroad (e.g., in case of secondments) and travelling expenses will be offered on a case-by-case basis.

Silicon Austria Labs (SAL) is a top research center for Electronics and Software Based Systems (ESBS). At three locations (Graz, Villach, Linz), SAL is conducting research along the entire ESBS value chain in the areas of sensor systems, power electronics, intelligent wireless systems, microsystems and embedded systems to develop future-oriented solutions for industrial production, health, energy, mobility, safety and more. SAL brings together key players from industry, science and research and thus valuable expertise and know-how and conducts cooperative, application-oriented research along the value chain. Cooperative projects are co-financed by SAL and enable a fast and unbureaucratic project start. SAL is thus shaping the high-tech location Austria and Europe and developing the future