The Technical University of Denmark (DTU Electro) invites applications for a fully funded PhD scholarship focusing on photonic parallelism and neuromorphic computing as part of the prestigious EU-funded MINDnet Doctoral Network. The position provides international training, secondments, and hands-on research in cutting-edge photonic computing technologies.
Important Information
| Field | Details |
|---|---|
| Title | PhD Scholarship in Computing Parallelism Enabled by Photonic Integrated Circuits |
| Organization/Publisher | Technical University of Denmark (DTU Electro) |
| Work Location | Copenhagen (Kgs. Lyngby), Denmark |
| Research Field | Photonics, Neuromorphic Computing, Parallel Computing, Analog Signal Processing |
| Funding Info | Fully Funded (EU MSCA DN + DTU employment agreement) |
| Application Deadline | 15 March 2026 |
| Country | Denmark |
| Researcher Profile | Early-Stage Researcher (PhD applicant) |
| Apply Button | Submit via DTU “Apply Now” online portal |
| Required Qualification | Master’s degree (120 ECTS) in Photonics, Electronics, Electrical Engineering, Physics, or related fields |
| Required Experience | Knowledge in photonics, analog signal processing, optical communication; research motivation |
| Salary Details | Based on Danish Confederation agreement: Minimum DKK 29,691.75 + DKK 1,551 PhD supplement + pension |
Opportunity Overview
The Technical University of Denmark (DTU Electro) announces a fully funded PhD position within the EU-funded MINDnet Doctoral Network, an ambitious collaborative program focused on neuromorphic and photonic computing. This doctoral project will explore the potential of photonic parallelism, a cutting-edge approach for addressing the exponential growth in computing and data transmission demands driven by AI and global digitalization.
The PhD student will join a dynamic international team with 15 PhD researchers across 7 universities, 1 research center, and 2 companies from 8 European countries.
Project Description
Modern computing systems face significant challenges due to rapidly increasing data requirements. Neuromorphic computing—taking inspiration from the human brain—offers a promising alternative to conventional digital systems. Photonics, in particular, provides a unique advantage due to its high bandwidth, low latency, and multiple degrees of freedom for data processing.
This PhD project focuses on developing a systematic understanding of photonic multiplexing and its use in improving computing efficiency.
Key Research Areas
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Photonic Multiplexing for Parallelism
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Explore time-, frequency-, and mode-multiplexing.
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Investigate its integration with photonic reservoir computing.
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Application-Level Mapping
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Connect photonic parallelism to real-world applications like multi-tasking and algorithmic parallelism.
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Nonlinear Equalization Methods
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Compare optical nonlinear equalization with neuromorphic electronics.
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Experimental & Numerical Analysis
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Utilize DTU’s advanced photonic computing infrastructure.
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International Secondments
As part of the MINDnet Doctoral Network, the candidate will undertake three research visits lasting 2–3 months at:
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University of Pisa (Italy)
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Fraunhofer Heinrich Hertz Institute (Germany)
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Spincloud (Germany)
Additionally, the candidate will join training schools, workshops, and regular network-wide meetings.
Candidate Profile
Applicants must:
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Hold a two-year Master’s degree (120 ECTS) in Electrical Engineering, Photonics, Electronics, Physics, or related fields.
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Have a strong interest in photonics, neuromorphic computing, or signal processing.
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Meet MSCA mobility rules:
Must not have lived or worked in Denmark for more than 12 months in the last 36 months. -
Possess strong analytical, communication, and collaboration skills.
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Be willing to participate in outreach activities such as social media updates, public events, and communication tasks.
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Be eligible for enrollment in DTU’s PhD program upon academic approval.
Funding & Employment
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Fully funded PhD position for 3 years under MSCA and DTU employment contract.
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Salary according to Danish Confederation of Professional Associations:
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Base salary: DKK 29,691.75
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PhD supplement: DKK 1,551
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Pension contributions from DTU
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Inclusive, international, and supportive working environment at DTU.
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Access to advanced laboratory facilities, photonic systems, and high-impact research collaborations.
How to Apply
Applications must be submitted no later than 15 March 2026 (23:59 Danish time).
Application Requirements (single PDF file):
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Motivational cover letter
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Curriculum Vitae (CV)
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Bachelor’s & Master’s transcripts and diplomas (in English)
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Description of grading scale
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Optional: Apply before completing the Master’s, but cannot start the PhD before receiving it
Supervisor Contact:
Assoc. Prof. Francesco Da Ros
Email: fdro@dtu.dk
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