If you are interested in exploring both existing and novel optical fibers for generation of entangled quantum states, with the goal of developing a fully fiber-integrated source of mode-entangled photon pairs suitable for applications such as two-photon absorption microscopy, then this PhD position may be relevant for you.
In collaboration with multiple project partners, the PhD will establish a source configuration for generating mode-entangled photons, by taking into account the optimal fiber characteristics required for high-performance operation. Specifications for the fiber’s optical properties needs to be derived established. These will guide the development of a suitable fiber. The design process involves close coordination between theoretical requirements and practical fabrication capabilities, resulting in an iterative optimization to identify a fiber that offers the best balance between desired optical performance and manufacturability.
Using the optimized fiber, a prototype entangled photon-pair source should be constructed and characterized. The performance of the source needs to be evaluated in terms of its ability to meet the initial design specifications, with special attention to its potential use in advanced quantum imaging techniques. This evaluation includes an extrapolation of performance expectations based on further refinement of the fiber and source design.
Finally, the developed source is benchmarked against existing state-of-the-art technologies, such as sources based on spontaneous parametric down-conversion. This comparison highlights the advantages and potential of a fully fiber-integrated approach, marking the first demonstration of a compact, robust source of mode-entangled photon pairs designed specifically for two-photon absorption microscopy.
Responsibilities and qualifications
As part of your research, you will analyze and identify optimal optical fiber characteristics for generating mode-entangled photon pairs and assist in specifying specifications for an optimum fiber design based on specific application of the fiber source. To do this, you will collaborate with a fiber fabrication team.
In addition, you will construct a prototype source of mode-entangled photons using the optimized fiber as well as other fibers and evaluate the performance of the designed source with respect to application within quantum imaging, using two-photon absorption microscopy.
The PhD is funded by the Innovation Fund Denmark as part of a EUREKA program and as part of the PhD you will work together with multiple project partners and participate in regular project meetings and contribute to advancement of the composite project.
You must have a two-year master's degree (120 ECTS points) or a similar degree with an academic level equivalent to a two-year master's degree.
Approval and Enrolment
The scholarship for the PhD degree is subject to academic approval, and the candidate will be enrolled in one of the general degree programmes at DTU. For information about our enrolment requirements and the general planning of the PhD study programme, please see DTU's rules for the PhD education
.
We offer
DTU 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 appointment terms
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 3 years. The starting date is as soon as possible in accordance with a mutual agreement.
The PhD project is part of an EU programme “EUREKA” and is funded through the “Innovation Fund Denmark”.
You can read more about career paths at DTU here
.
Further information
Further information may be obtained from professor Karsten Rottwitt, and you can read more about DTU Electro at DTU Electro
.
If you are applying from abroad, you may find useful information on working in Denmark and at DTU at DTU – Moving to Denmark
. Furthermore, you have the option of joining our monthly free seminar “PhD relocation to Denmark and startup “Zoom” seminar
” for all questions regarding the practical matters of moving to Denmark and working as a PhD at DTU.
Application procedure
Your complete online application must be submitted no later than 1 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:
You may apply prior to obtaining your master's degree but cannot begin before having received it.
Applications received after the deadline 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.
Technology for people
DTU 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.