Aalto University is where science and art meet technology and business. We shape a sustainable future by making research breakthroughs in and across our disciplines, sparking the game changers of tomorrow and creating novel solutions to major global challenges. Our community is made up of 13 000 students, 400 professors and close to 4 500 other faculty and staff working on our dynamic campus in Espoo, Greater Helsinki, Finland. Diversity is part of who we are, and we actively work to ensure our community’s diversity and inclusiveness. This is why we warmly encourage qualified candidates from all backgrounds to join our community.
At the Department of Applied Physics, our pioneering research in physical sciences creates important industrial applications that hold great technological potential. Our research focuses on Materials physics, Quantum technology, Soft & living matter, and Advanced energy solutions. Topics extend from fundamental research to important applications. We educate future generations of research and development professionals, data specialists, technology experts, inventors, and scientists for industry and society.
The Department of Applied Physics at Aalto University is now looking for a
Doctoral Researcher to work on nano-scale control of optical fields.
We are looking for an outstanding doctoral student to join the Optics and Photonics group for theoretical and experimental research on nanoscale control of optical fields for applications in optical imaging and photonic chip technology. The research will be focused on the design, fabrication, and testing of optical components with novel functionalities based on nanoscale manipulation of light and its propagation medium. Potential applications of these components range from super-resolution optical microscopes and telescopes to on-chip photonic processors. The appointment is for 4 years with a flexible start in autumn 2026. The research involves collaboration with scientists from the University of Eastern Finland and Tampere University, as well as researcher groups from Germany, Switzerland, and Spain.
Your role and goals
In this position, you will act as a doctoral researcher working on design and testing of novel nanofabricated optical components. The design will be done using advanced numerical calculation methods, such as Finite Element Method (FEM) and Finite Difference Time Domain (FDTD) method. Approaches based on inverse engineering and machine learning will also be considered. The samples will be fabricated using the clean room facilities of Aalto University and tested using the equipment of the Optics and Photonics group. We expect you to be able to generate good scientific ideas, propose new technological solutions, initiate and maintain scientific collaboration, write scientific articles and research proposals, and participate in teaching. We expect you to graduate as a Doctor of Science in four years.
Your experience
We expect the candidate to hold a MSc degree in physics and be familiar with standard numerical calculation techniques used in physics. Preference will be given to candidates with good understanding of basic optics and experience in designing optical components and conducting optical experiments. Fluency in English both spoken and written is required.
What we offer
Aalto University follows the salary system of Finnish universities. The starting salary for a Doctoral Researcher is approximately 3142 €/month (gross), and it increases as you progress in your research and studies. Following the standard practice in the Department of Applied Physics, the contract will be made initially for two years, then extended to another two years after a successful mid-term progress review. The total duration of Ph.D. studies is four years. The annual workload of research and teaching staff at Aalto University is currently 1612 hours. The contract includes Aalto University occupational healthcare.
The work is done in Finland, and the primary workplace will be the Otaniemi Campus at Aalto University. Life on the revitalized campus is vibrant, featuring stunning architecture, tranquil nature, and a variety of cafes, restaurants, and services, all complemented by excellent public transportation connections.
Ready to apply?
To apply for the position, please submit your application including the attachments mentioned below as one single PDF document in English through our online recruitment by using the link on Aalto University’s web page (Click the “Apply Now” button).
- Letter of motivation (max. 1 or 2 pages)
- CV
- Degree certificates and academic transcripts
- Contact details of at least two references
Please note: Aalto University’s employees should apply for the position via our internal HR system Workday (Internal Jobs) by using their existing Workday user account (not via the external webpage for open positions). If you are a student or visitor at Aalto University, please apply with your personal email address (not aalto.fi) via Aalto University open positions.
The deadline for applications is August 4th, 2026, at 23:59pm (EEST/UTC +3).
For additional information, kindly contact Dr. Andriy Shevchenko, [email protected].
The position will be filled as soon as a suitable candidate is identified.
Aalto University reserves the right for justified reasons to leave the position open, to extend the application period, reopen the application process, and to consider candidates who have not submitted applications during the application period.
Want to know more about us and your future colleagues?
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Aalto University – Towards a better world, Aalto People , and Shaping a Sustainable Future. And this webpage about Aalto and Finland. https://www.aalto.fi/en/services/welcome-to-aalto-university-and-finland-info-package
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Skills Required
- MSc degree in physics
- Familiarity with standard numerical calculation techniques used in physics (e.g., FEM, FDTD)
- Fluency in English, spoken and written
- Understanding of basic optics and experience designing optical components and conducting optical experiments
- Ability to generate scientific ideas, write articles and research proposals, and maintain collaborations
What We Do
Aalto University is a multidisciplinary institution in Finland that integrates science, art, business, and technology to drive research and innovation. It focuses on fostering a sustainable future through interdisciplinary collaboration and academic excellence.
