Fixed term contract | Belval | 07 Months
Are you passionate about research? So are we! Come and join us
The Luxembourg Institute of Science and Technology (LIST) is a leading Research and Technology Organisation (RTO) that drives innovation for the economy and society in Luxembourg and beyond. With cutting-edge expertise in Natural, Built, Industrial environments, Space, AI, Security and defence technologies. LIST bridges scientific excellence and applied research to design solutions that address real-world challenges and create positive impact.
Do you want to know more about LIST? Check our website: https://www.list.lu/
How will you contribute?
You will be mainly in charge of:
Conducting a thorough literature review and state-of-the-art analysis on SBN electro-optic crystals and their use in laser cavity designs
Design and develop a master laser cavity architecture compatible with the incorporation of the SBN crystal, building upon the existing proven chirped laser design
Identify and evaluate appropriate electronic driving schemes to effectively modulate the SBN crystal at the required performance levels
Characterise the electrical response of the crystal under operational conditions and adapt driving electronics accordingly
Investigate and compare electrode configurations (e.g. gold vs. water-graphite contacts) in terms of optical transmission, electrical coupling efficiency, and practical operability
Select and validate the optimal electrode solution for integration into the final laser design
Perform systematic performance characterisation of the novel SBN-based master laser, including chirp rate, spectral purity, and stability metrics
Conduct a rigorous comparative assessment between the SBN-based design and the current LiTaO3-based reference system under identical experimental conditions
Deliver a clear, evidence-based recommendation on the optimal crystal solution for single-shot CRBS laser systems
Document all design choices, experimental procedures, and results in technical reports and/or scientific publications
Present progress and findings to internal stakeholders and contribute to the broader knowledge base of the ALDiOM group. Support the knowledge transfer to the group, ensuring continuity beyond the duration of the project
Is Your profile described below? Are you our future colleague? Apply now!
Education
Level of Education Required
PhD in Physics, Photonics, Optical Engineering, or a closely related discipline – degree available on the date of hire or proof of PhD defense date required
The doctoral background should ideally cover one or more of the following topics:
Laser physics and cavity design
Electro-optic modulation and nonlinear optics
Spectroscopic techniques (notably Coherent Rayleigh-Brillouin Scattering or related methods)
Ultrafast or frequency-agile laser systems
Optical characterisation and metrology
Experience & Skills
Preferred Number of Years of Experience
Minimum 3 to 5 years of hands-on experience in experimental photonics or laser physics, typically accumulated through a PhD and/or prior postdoctoral engagement
Prior exposure to laser system development from design through to performance validation is strongly preferred
Hard Skills
Demonstrated experience in the design, construction, and alignment of laser cavities
Practical knowledge of electro-optic crystals and modulators, including their optical and electrical characterisation
Familiarity with chirped or frequency-modulated laser architectures
Experience with electronic driving circuits for optical modulators or similar high-voltage/high-frequency components
Proficiency in optical bench instrumentation (oscilloscopes, spectrum analysers, power meters, photodetectors, etc.)
Knowledge of electrode fabrication or handling techniques relevant to optical crystals
Experience with data acquisition, analysis, and scientific programming (e.g. Python, MATLAB, or equivalent)
Familiarity with spectroscopic diagnostics, particularly non-linear scattering-based techniques, is a strong asset
Soft Skills
Strong problem-solving mindset with the ability to work independently and take ownership of a technically complex project
Structured and methodical approach to experimental work, with attention to detail in documentation and reproducibility
Effective scientific communication skills, both written and oral, for reporting results to peers and stakeholders
Ability to manage time and priorities across multiple parallel tasks within a fixed project timeline of 7 months
Collaborative attitude and willingness to integrate within an established research group and contribute to collective knowledge
Ability to deliver clear, evidence-based conclusions and recommendations from complex experimental datasets
Language skills
Fluency in English, both oral and written. Other relevant languages are an asset.
Your LIST benefits
An organization with a passion for impact and strong RDI partnerships in Luxembourg and Europe that works on responsible and independent research projects
Sustainable by design, empowering our belief that we play an essential role in paving the way to a green society
Innovative infrastructures and exceptional labs occupying more than 5,000 square metres, including innovations in all that we do
An environment encouraging curiosity, innovation and entrepreneurship in all areas
Personalized learning programme to foster our staff’s soft and technical skills
Multicultural and international work environment with more than 60 nationalities represented in our workforce
Diverse and inclusive work environment empowering our people to fulfil their personal and professional ambitions
Gender-friendly environment with multiple actions to attract, develop and retain women in science
32 days’ paid annual leave, 11 public holidays, 13-month salary, statutory health insurance
Flexible working hours, home working policy (not remote) and access to Digital lunch vouchers
Apply online
Your application must include:
A motivation letter oriented towards the position and detailing your experience
A scientific CV with contact details
List of publications (and patents, if applicable)
Contact details of 2 references
Please apply ONLINE formally through the HR system. Applications by email will not be considered.
Application procedure and conditions
We kindly request applicants to provide their nationality for statistical purposes only, as part of our commitment to promoting diversity and ensuring equal opportunities in our workforce. This information will be kept confidential and will not be used for any discriminatory purposes.
LIST is dedicated to maintaining an inclusive work environment and is an equal opportunity employer. We are committed to attracting, hiring, and retaining a diverse workforce. All applicants will be considered for employment without discrimination based on national origin, race, ethnicity, gender, sexual orientation, gender identity, marital status, religion, age, or disability.
Applications will be continuously reviewed until the position is filled. An assessment committee will thoroughly evaluate applications, adhering to guidelines designed to ensure equal opportunities. The primary criteria for selection will be the alignment of the applicant's existing skills and expertise with the requirements mentioned above.