DTU Physics seeks a talented and motivated postdoctoral researcher for a 2-year position in computational nanophotonics. The goal is to use inverse design, such as topology optimization, for enhancing light trapping in nanostructured thin-film solar cells.
Your role will focus on developing and applying large-scale electromagnetic simulations to identify optimal nanostructured light-trapping surfaces that maximize light absorption in thin-film solar cells. A key aim is to establish a simulation-driven workflow that systematically explores the design space of nanostructures using different materials, producing a comprehensive dataset of structures and their optical properties. This dataset will serve as input for AI-based design tools developed by collaborators within the project.
Your main tasks will be:
- Develop and apply electromagnetic modelling techniques in combination with inverse design to study light-matter interactions in dielectric nanostructured optical surfaces.
- Evaluate optical performance metrics such as absorption and diffraction across a large design and material space.
- Curate and format large datasets of simulated nanostructures and their optical properties in close collaboration with colleagues responsible for downstream AI-based optimization.
The ideal candidate has a strong background in computational electromagnetics and photonics, ideally with experience in topology optimization or related inverse design techniques. While this position does not involve developing AI models, it requires close collaboration with AI researchers to ensure data is appropriately structured for AI training.
Responsibilities
You will be part of the LightTrap project, funded by the Novo Nordisk Foundation, which aims to use AI to accelerate the discovery of new optical materials and nanostructures that enhance the performance of thin-film solar cells. LightTrap covers the entire discovery chain, from ab initio calculations and photonic simulations to materials synthesis and nanostructuring, all guided by advanced AI algorithms to optimize and understand the optical properties of light-trapping surfaces. (more information can be found in the following News post).
You will work closely with colleagues both within the 2DPHYS and CAMD sections at DTU Physics as well as at DTU Compute and DTU Nanolab.
Required qualifications
- Significant experience with theoretical and computational nanophotonics
- High level of understanding of the diffractive properties of nanostructured dielectric optical surfaces
- Experience with inverse design for nanophotonics.
- Experience with optical simulations using, e.g., COMSOL, Lumerical, or other Maxwell solvers.
Experience with machine learning algorithms is an advantage but not required.
General qualifications
- Scientific production and research potential at the international level
- Independent problem-solving skills
- Excellent communication and language skills (English)
- Experience with collaborations and team-based work style
As a formal qualification, you must hold a PhD degree (or equivalent).
We offer
DTU is a leading technical university globally recognized for the excellence of its research, education, innovation and scientific advice. We offer a rewarding and challenging job in an international environment. We strive for academic excellence in an environment characterized by collegial respect and academic freedom tempered by responsibility.
Salary and terms of employment
The appointment will be based on the collective agreement with the Danish Confederation of Professional Associations. The allowance will be agreed upon with the relevant union.
The period of employment is 2 years. The position is a full-time position. The expected start date is as soon as possible or according to mutual agreement.
You can read more about career paths at DTU here.
Further information
Further information may be obtained from Associate Professor Søren Raza, [email protected].
You can read more about our research on the Applied Nano-Optics webpage and about DTU Physics at https://physics.dtu.dk/.
If you are applying from abroad, you may find useful information on working in Denmark and at DTU at DTU – Moving to Denmark.
Application procedure
Your complete online application must be submitted no later than 8 August 2025 (23:59 Danish time). Applications must be submitted as one PDF file containing all materials to be given consideration. To apply, please open the link "Apply now", fill out the online application form, and attach all your materials in English in one PDF file. The file must include:
- A 1-page letter motivating the application (cover letter)
- CV
- Academic Diplomas (MSc/PhD – in English)
- List of publications
- Names and e-mail addresses or telephone numbers of 2 references
Applications received after the deadline will not be considered. Incomplete applications will not be considered.
All interested candidates irrespective of age, gender, disability, race, religion or ethnic background are encouraged to apply. As DTU works with research in critical technology, which is subject to special rules for security and export control, open-source background checks may be conducted on qualified candidates for the position.
DTU Physics
At DTU Physics, we perform research, teaching, and innovation in experimental and theoretical physics with the overall aim to benefit society. We contribute to the transition to sustainable energy via research and innovation in catalysis, Power-to-X, and nuclear energy solutions. We design and develop new functional materials, contribute to advances in geosciences and life sciences, and we develop and exploit quantum physics and quantum technologies.
Technology for people
DTU develops technology for people. With our international elite research and study programmes, we are helping to create a better world and to solve the global challenges formulated in the UN’s 17 Sustainable Development Goals. Hans Christian Ørsted founded DTU in 1829 with a clear mission to develop and create value using science and engineering to benefit society. That mission lives on today. DTU has 13,500 students and 6,000 employees. We work in an international atmosphere and have an inclusive, evolving, and informal working environment. DTU has campuses in all parts of Denmark and in Greenland, and we collaborate with the best universities around the world.
