Tampere University and Tampere University of Applied Sciences create a unique environment for multidisciplinary, inspirational and high-impact research and education. Our university community has competitive edges in technology, health and society.www.tuni.fi/en
Joining Tampere University means becoming part of one of Europe's most dynamic photonics ecosystems. At the heart of this environment is the Photonics Laboratory, which coordinates the national Photonics Research and Innovation (PREIN) flagship and contributes to Finland's Future Chips initiative, accelerating the development of next-generation integrated photonics. Researchers benefit from access to a unique infrastructure that spans advanced optical laboratories, together with state-of-the-art nanofabrication facilities including the SiPFAB pilot line established within the broader Chips for Europe Initiative.
Within this vibrant setting, the rapidly expanding MetaPhotonics Group at Tampere University explores how light can be controlled at the nanometre scale – smaller than the wavelength of light itself. We are seeking a motivated doctoral researcher to join our team in developing next-generation photonic technologies through metasurfaces, nonlinear nanophotonics, and quantum light–matter interactions. Depending on your interests and background, your doctoral thesis will advance one or more of the following research directions:
- Metasurfaces and meta-optics — ultra-thin optical components replacing conventional lenses and other optical elements and systems.
- Strong-field nanophotonics — generating new colours of light, including extreme-ultraviolet radiation, from nanostructured solids.
- Nanoscale optical isolators — enabling chip-scale photonic logic and traffic control of light.
- Quantum nanophotonics — creating next-generation single-photon sources for quantum communications and harnessing quantum states of light to control chemical and biological processes.
As a Doctoral Researcher, you will receive training and mentorship while developing expertise in one or more of the following areas:
- Computational design — modelling and optimising nanophotonic devices using advanced simulation software and high-performance computing clusters.
- Nanofabrication — creating devices with nanometre precision in a modern cleanroom facility for advanced semiconductor manufacturing.
- Experimental optics — characterising devices using advanced optical instrumentation, ranging from high-power ultrafast lasers to single-photon-sensitive detectors.
The exact balance between theory, nanofabrication, and optical experiments can be tailored to your interests and career goals.
About you
We are looking for a curious and highly motivated student who enjoys solving challenging problems and learning new skills. A successful candidate will have:
- A degree (or near completion of a degree) that qualifies the applicant for doctoral studies at Tampere University in Physics, Photonics, Engineering, or a related field. This may include a Master's degree, an Honours degree, or an equivalent qualification with a substantial research component.
- Strong academic performance.
- Interest in optics, photonics, nanotechnology, or quantum technologies.
- Good communication skills and ability to work both independently and as part of a team.
We offer
The full-time position will be filled for a fixed-term period of three (3) years, starting upon mutual agreement. A trial period of six (6) months applies to all our new employees.
The salary will be based on both the job requirements and the employee’s personal performance in accordance with the Finnish University Salary System. A starting salary for Doctoral Researchers is typically around EUR 3000 EUR per month.
The University offers a wide range of staff benefits, such as occupational health care, flexible working hours, excellent sports facilities on campus, and several on-campus restaurants and cafés with staff discounts. Please read more about working at Tampere University.
Tampere region is one of the fastest-growing urban areas in Finland. Tampere is a traditional center of the Finnish industry. Today, the city is best known for its high-tech expertise and extensive know-how in various fields including electronics and photonics.
Read more about Finland and Tampere:
How to apply
Please submit your application through our online recruitment system. The closing date for applications is August 16, 2026 at 23.59 EEST (UTC+2). Interested candidates should submit a single PDF in English that includes:
- Motivation letter describing your background and research interests. Please indicate which research direction interests you most and why.
- Curriculum Vitae.
- Academic transcripts.
- Contact details of two referees.
For further information, please contact:
Assistant Professor Sergey Kruk [email protected]
Application period starts: 2026-06-17 13:00 Application period ends: 2026-08-16 23:59
