Job opportunity

PhD in Meta-optics based optomechanics (male) / PhD in Meta-optics based optomechanics (female)

ETH Zurich Zürich December 7, 2025

PhD in Meta-Optics Based Optomechanics

100%, Zurich, Fixed-Term

We are seeking a curious and motivated PhD student to join our optomechanics team and work at the interface between meta-optics and optomechanics.

Recent advances in meta-optics have significantly improved control over light-matter interactions, leading to innovative research directions that include imaging, nonlinear optics, biosensing, and photonic computing. Notably, the field of optomechanics—focused on the interactions between optical and mechanical properties—offers exciting opportunities, especially as it pertains to both fundamental physics and technological applications.

Project Background

The project aims to harness the latest breakthroughs in meta-optics to enhance control over optomechanical interactions. By engineering the electromagnetic modes supported by metasurfaces, we can manipulate the optical forces they experience and, subsequently, their mechanical responses. This research is set to deepen our fundamental understanding while propelling new technological advancements.

Job Description

Your work will encompass all stages from system idealization to full characterization, including:

  • Designing optomechanical metasurfaces using numerical simulations
  • Nanoscale fabrication in a cleanroom environment
  • Characterization of optomechanical properties

Profile

  • The ideal candidate shares our passion for cutting-edge research, brings motivation and creativity, and communicates clearly. They enjoy collaborating closely and respectfully within a team and possess basic laboratory and data analysis experience.
  • Prior experience in areas such as nanofabrication, nano- and meta-optics, optomechanics, vacuum technology, and experimental programming is highly valued, although not mandatory.

Workplace

You will be situated within an international and interdisciplinary research group at ETH Zurich, known for making pioneering contributions to optomechanics. Throughout your PhD, you will be exposed to a multitude of technologies, including nanofabrication, optics, lasers, data analysis, vacuum technology, and numerical simulations.

We Value Diversity and Sustainability

In line with our values, ETH Zurich encourages an inclusive culture. We promote equality of opportunity, value diversity, and cultivate a working and learning environment that respects the rights and dignity of all staff and students. Sustainability is a core value for us—we are committed to consistently working toward a climate-neutral future.

Curious? So Are We.

If you are interested in this opportunity, please apply online using the form below. Only applications matching the job profile will be considered.

About ETH Zürich

ETH Zurich is one of the world’s leading universities specializing in science and technology. Renowned for its excellent education, cutting-edge research, and direct transfer of new knowledge into society, ETH creates an environment that inspires excellence. With over 30,000 individuals from more than 120 countries, our university promotes independent thinking and collaborative problem-solving to address global challenges.

Work locationZürich, Switzerland

Application Form

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