Applications are invited for a PhD fellowship/scholarship at Graduate School of Natural Sciences, Aarhus University, Denmark, within the Physics and Astronomy programme. The position is available from November 2026 or later.
Title:
Nanomechanical orchestra for gas sensing and quantum optomechanics
Research area and project description:
This project aims at the realization, investigation and application of ultrasensitive and versatile optomechanical instruments for gas sensing and quantum optomechanics.
The project builds on recent progress realized by the group regarding the design, fabrication and application of nanostructured silicon nitride thin films. It will involve nanofabrication in the local iNANO cleanroom (Electron beam lithography, atomic force microscopy, etc.) and optical techniques (e.g. interferometry) as well as the simulation of the optical and mechanical properties of suspended nanostructures (using e.g. Finite Element Methods).
Potential instruments to be investigated in the optomechanical orchestra will be nanodrum microcavities and nano-guitars, which will be applied for various sensing applications (pressure, temperature, refractive index, label-free molecule detection, etc.) and fundamental investigations of radiation pressure.
For technical reasons, you must upload a project description. When - as here - you apply for a specific project, please simply copy the project description above, and upload it as a PDF in the application. If you wish to, you can indicate an URL where further information can be found.
Qualifications and specific competences:
Applicants must have a relevant Master’s degree or at least one year of a Master’s degree in Physics, Nanosciences or Engineering, experience with optics/photonics and/or nanofabrication being a plus.
Place of employment and place of work:
The place of employment is Aarhus University, and the place of work is Ny Munkegade 120, 8000 Aarhus C, Denmark.
Contacts:
Applicants seeking further information for this project are invited to contact:
Associate Professor Aurelien Dantan, dantan@phys.au.dk
How to apply:
For information about application requirements and mandatory attachments, please see the Application guide. Please read the Application guide thoroughly before applying.
When ready to apply, go to https://phd.nat.au.dk/for-applicants/apply-here/ (Note, the online application system opens 1 June 2026)
Please note:
At the Faculty of Natural Science at Aarhus University, we strive to support our scientific staff in their career development. We focus on competency development and career clarification and want to make your opportunities transparent. On our website, you can find information on all types of scientific positions, as well as the entry criteria we use when assessing candidates. You can also read more about how we can assist you in your career planning and development.
Aarhus University’s ambition is to be an attractive and inspiring workplace for all and to foster a culture in which each individual has opportunities to thrive, achieve and develop. We view equality and diversity as assets, and we welcome all applicants. All interested candidates are encouraged to apply, regardless of their personal background. Salary and terms of employment are in accordance with applicable collective agreement.
