Host: Advanced Photonics Lab, Lecce (Italy)
Position: PhD/postdoctoral candidate (experimental photonics)
Start date: flexible
Duration: 1–3 years
Deadline: until filled
Contact: Dr. Dimitrios Trypogeorgos — dimitrios.trypogeorgos@cnr.it
About the Advanced Photonics Lab
The Advanced Photonics Lab in Lecce carries out research in experimental photonics, exploring how modern optical platforms can be engineered and measured to reveal rich physical behaviour. The lab develops and operates advanced optical experiments and investigates nonlinear and collective optical effects in micro-/nano-structured and integrated photonic systems. Our work combines careful experimental design with quantitative data analysis, and it is embedded in an international research environment with opportunities for collaboration, conferences, and scientific training.
What you will do
The successful candidate will contribute primarily to hands-on experimental research, typically including:
- Optical setup development and operation: building, aligning, and stabilizing laser-based experiments (free-space and/or fiber-based), optical microscopy/spectroscopy, interferometry, and time-resolved measurements (depending on the project direction).
- Measurements and characterization: performing systematic data acquisition, calibration, and characterization of photonic devices and optical signals (e.g., spectra, coherence, correlations, dynamics).
- Instrumentation & automation: integrating detectors, cameras, spectrometers, and electronics; developing control and acquisition routines (e.g., Python-based workflows).
- Data analysis: extracting robust observables from experimental datasets; statistical analysis, uncertainty estimation, fitting, and reproducible processing pipelines.
- Research dissemination: writing papers, preparing figures and reports, and presenting results at group meetings and international conferences.
Important: The precise topic will be selected within the lab’s broader research portfolio and can be adapted to the candidate’s background and interests, while maintaining a strong experimental focus.
Candidate profile
We welcome applications from motivated candidates with a strong background in Physics, Photonics, Quantum Optics, Condensed Matter, Nanoscience, or Electrical/Optical Engineering.
Required
- MSc/PhD degree (or equivalent) completed by the start date
- Solid fundamentals in optics/photonics and general experimental methods
- Demonstrated interest in hands-on laboratory work (alignment, measurements, troubleshooting)
- Programming skills for data acquisition/analysis (e.g., Python or similar)
- Ability to work independently and collaboratively; strong English communication skills
Nice to have
- Prior lab experience with lasers, spectroscopy, interferometry, cryogenics, vacuum, or micro-/nano-photonic characterization
- Familiarity with nonlinear optics, integrated photonics, or semiconductor photonic devices
- Experience with scientific instrumentation, automation, and reproducible data workflows
What we offer
- PhD/postdoctoral training in a dynamic, international research environment
- Strong mentorship and structured skill development (experimental techniques, analysis, scientific writing)
- Access to advanced photonics instrumentation and modern measurement capabilities
- Opportunities for conference participation and research collaborations (subject to the funding framework)
How to apply
Please send an email including:
- CV (education, research experience, technical skills)
- Motivation letter (max 1 page): your interests + why you want to work in experimental photonics in Lecce
- Names and contact details of 1–2 referees
Send to: dimitrios.trypogeorgos@cnr.it
Selection process: Shortlisted candidates will be invited to an interview; a brief presentation of previous work may be requested (10–20 minutes).
Equal opportunity
CNR is committed to equality, diversity, and inclusion and encourages applications from all qualified candidates.
The Advanced Photonics Lab warmly encourages applications from women and other candidates currently underrepresented in physics and photonics; selection is based on merit and role-related criteria. We offer an inclusive lab culture, mentoring, and flexibility where possible. We support researchers with caring responsibilities and provide accommodations for candidates with disabilities throughout the selection process (please indicate any needs confidentially). We are committed to a work environment that supports, inspires, and respects all individuals and in which personnel processes are merit-based and applied without discrimination on the basis of race, color, religion, sex, sexual orientation, gender identity, marital status, age, disability, national or ethnic origin, military service status, citizenship, or other protected characteristic.
