SPEAR Centre: Fully Funded PhD in ‘Compact short pulse semiconductor lasers’

The Semiconductor and Photonics Education and Research (SPEAR) Centre, funded by PEACEPLUS and managed by the Special EU Programmes Body (SEUPB), is an €8.5 million cross-border project by Atlantic Technological University, Ulster University, Tyndall National Institute and their associate partner Seagate Technology. The Centre aims to build research capacity in integrated photonics and semiconductor technologies, contributing to the development of Ireland’s and Northern Ireland’s deep-tech innovation ecosystem. It seeks to train the next generation of scientists and engineers to support growth in sectors such as healthcare, telecommunications, advanced manufacturing, and sensor networks.

The following position is available at Tyndall National Institute in Cork:

Compact short pulse semiconductor lasers

Project Description

Semiconductor lasers are the compact light source for emerging waveguided photonic integrated circuits (PICs). As such, the laser needs to meet many application-dependent criteria such as wavelength, power, energy, tuning range, polarization, for example. One of the most exciting high-volume application for integrated lasers is for high density data storage enabled by heat assisted magnetic recording (HAMR). The aim of the PhD is to design and realise lasers capable of generating and delivering sub-picosecond light pulses with high peak power all within a limited footprint for the laser and waveguide.

This requires careful analysis of the materials and the device physics. Mode locking with saturable absorbers along with dispersion control is one approach, and this requires detailed modelling and simulation. Varying the repetition rate and imprinting of data onto these light pulses will also be investigated. Finally, the student will design, fabricate (cleanroom), integrate and characterise the devices and the final optical circuits.

Key Responsibilities

Performing research with responsibility and integrity.
Adhering to health and safety rules.
Completing modules for PhD.
Presenting results at conferences.
Participating in education and public engagements annually.
Providing weekly updates.

Essential Criteria

First or upper second-class honours degree in Physics, Electronic Engineering, or related discipline (or equivalent international degree).
Highly self-motivated, be able to demonstrate initiative and have a desire to learn.
The candidate must demonstrate proficiency in English.

Desirable Criteria

Masters degree in Physics/Engineering/Photonics

What We Offer

A fully funded PhD position that includes a stipend of €25,000/year for up to four years and full coverage of academic fees. The successful candidate will be registered as PhD student at University College Cork.
Doctoral students are going to be equipped with the highest level of scientific and engineering research skills needed to address the challenges of developing new integrated photonic technologies for diverse applications, as well as with the entrepreneurial, leadership and teamwork capabilities needed to lead and operate at the highest levels in industry.

As a student in the SPEAR Centre you will join a vibrant, supportive and engaging cohort of 15 students and will have the chance to travel and attend a bespoke induction programme with students from all three partners, an annual training school and have access to advanced training courses in areas such as semiconductor fabrication, packaging, biophotonics and entrepreneurship.

Closing date for application is 6th November 2026.

Preferred start date:
As soon as possible.

Any queries concerning this PhD position can be sent to Brendan Roycroft

Application Instructions

Please make sure to attach an up-to-date CV/Resume AND a brief motivation letter (400 words) outlining how you meet the ‘Essential Criteria’ for this role.

Postgraduate applicants whose first language is not English must provide evidence of English language proficiency as per UCC regulations (https://www.ucc.ie/en/study/comparison/english/postgraduate/). Certificates should be valid (usually less than 2 years old) and should be uploaded with their application. In special circumstances the panel may consider a prior degree in English (e.g. Master thesis written in English) as evidence of English language proficiency.

Please note that Garda vetting and/or an international police clearance check may form part of the selection process.The University, at its discretion, may undertake to make an additional appointment(s) from this competition following the conclusion of the process.At this time, Tyndall National Institute does not require the assistance of recruitment agencies.
Tyndall National Institute at University College, Cork is an Equal Opportunities Employer.

PhD in Compact Short Pulse Semiconductor Lasers

Benefits

Job Description