Postdoc in 2D Nanophotonics for Spin-Polarized Valleytronics - DTU Physics

Job DescriptionDTU Physics seeks a talented and motivated postdoctoral researcher for a 2-year position in 2D nanophotonics. The goal is to create a new chiral meta-crystal which has spin-valley dichroism at room temperature.Your role will center on developing a novel meta-crystal composed of individually stacked monolayers for room-temperature spin-polarized valleytronics. The objective is to fabricate a stack with a thickness on the order of a few tens of nanometers, while preserving the emission properties inherent to its constituent monolayers. This meta-crystal will then be nanopatterned into a spiral geometry, and the dichroism of its luminescence will be characterized.Your main tasks will be:Stacking monolayers of a selected TMDC (e.g., MoS₂) with controlled orientations to create a meta-crystal with a thickness of a few tens of nanometers.Using the meta-crystal to fabricate spiraling nanoantennas. Measuring and comparing the emission properties (intensity and polarization) of both the full meta-crystal and the resulting nanoantennas.The ideal candidate brings a solid background in 2D materials for photonic applications, with hands-on experience in material manipulation techniques such as mechanical exfoliation and stacking, as well as characterization methods including AFM, SEM, and optical microscopy. Experience with advanced nanofabrication techniques such as e-beam lithography, chemical etching, or FIB milling is a strong advantage. Familiarity with optical setups for imaging or polarization-resolved analysis will be considered a significant plus.ResponsibilitiesYou will be part of a newly funded Villum Experiment project supported by the Villum Foundation, which aims to achieve spin-polarized emission from exciton valleys at room temperature. The project covers the full device development pipeline — from meta-crystal engineering and patterning into spiraling nanoantennas, to comprehensive characterization. The latter will include both surface techniques (AFM) and advanced optical measurements such as luminescence imaging and polarization-resolved analysis.You will work closely with colleagues within the 2DPHYS section at DTU Physics, who will provide support throughout the project.Required QualificationsStrong experience with 2D materials manipulation, including mechanical exfoliation and stacking.Hands-on experience with nanofabrication techniques such as e-beam lithography, chemical etching or FIB milling. Experience with optical measurements, such as luminescence or polarization analysis.Experience in building optical set-ups is an advantage but not a requirement.As a formal qualification, you must hold a PhD degree (or equivalent).General QualificationsStrong scientific track record and research potential at the international levelAbility to work independently and identify solutions proactivelyExcellent communication skills in EnglishDemonstrated ability to collaborate in a team-oriented environmentWe offerDTU 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 informationFurther information may be obtained from Associate Professor Søren Raza, sraz@dtu.dk .You can read more about our research on the Applied Nano-Optics webpage .You can read more 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 22 December 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)CVAcademic Diplomas (MSc/PhD – in English)List of publications Names and e-mail addresses or telephone numbers of 2 referencesApplications 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.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 peopleDTU 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.