This competition will be used to fill two positions
This position is a two-year term appointment, with the possibility of extension. The anticipated start date is September 2026.
Location - This role is in-person with onsite work at Nanoscale Optics Lab, University of Alberta, Edmonton
Position Summary
We are inviting applications for two Postdoctoral Research Fellow positions in the area of Reconfigurable Metasurfaces/Metamaterials and Silicon Photonics. This position is part of a cutting-edge research initiative at the Nanoscale Optics Lab at the University of Alberta, focused on developing next-generation nanophotonic platforms with the potential to impact quantum information technologies.
The Faculty of Engineering is one of North America’s top engineering schools, known for innovation, collaboration, and impact. It fosters an exceptional student experience through a holistic approach that combines technical excellence with emotional intelligence. With strong community engagement, interdisciplinary research, and a commitment to societal well-being, the faculty prepares students to lead in a rapidly evolving, global engineering landscape.
Project Overview:
The successful candidate will work on the design/simulation, fabrication, and experimental characterization of reconfigurable metasurfaces and metamaterials and/or silicon photonic integrated circuits aimed at controlling light-matter interactions down to the quantum level. Applications include quantum emitters, quantum sensing, and integrated quantum and neuromorphic photonic circuits on waveguide and optical fibre platforms.
The position offers access to state-of-the-art nanofabrication infrastructure at the Edmonton nanofab and complex materials growth at the Alberta Metal-Chalcogenide Manufacturing Facility (AM2F). The position will also have access to a myriad of classical and quantum optics characterization capabilities alongside the opportunity to collaborate with leading experts in photonics, quantum technologies, and materials science across Canada, the US and beyond.
Required Qualifications:
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A PhD (or near completion) in Physics, Electrical Engineering, Materials Science, or a related field.
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Experience with nanophotonics, metasurfaces/metamaterials, silicon photonics and/or quantum optics.
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Experience with nanofabrication, cleanroom environments and ultrahigh vacuum vapour deposition and growth systems.
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Skills in electromagnetic simulation, software-hardware interfacing, or optical characterization techniques.
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Skills in programming hardware instrumentation using any of the following languages: C, C#, Python, Labview, Matlab
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A strong publication track record and the ability to work independently and collaboratively.
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Experience with chalcogenide semiconductors, phase change materials and nano-opto-mechanical systems is an asset
Application Instructions
Click "Apply Now" to submit the following in a single PDF document:
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Cover Letter (Please address relevant expertise, training and career goals.)
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Curriculum Vitae
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List of Publications
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References (Please provide the names and contact information of two references. Reference letters are not required as part of the initial application and will only be requested at a later stage of the recruitment process, if required.)
Applications will be reviewed on a rolling basis until the position is filled. For more information, please contact Dr. Behrad Gholipour ([email protected]).
We look forward to hearing from outstanding candidates passionate about advancing the frontier of nanoscale optics.
This position has a comprehensive benefits package.
The terms and conditions of this appointment are governed by the Collective Agreement between the Board of Governors of the University of Alberta and the Postdoctoral Fellows Association of the University of Alberta.
Working for the Faculty of Engineering - Department of Electrical and Computer Engineering
The Department of Electrical and Computer Engineering at the University of Alberta is a leader in research and innovation. In our nearly 100 years of history, ECE researchers have contributed many important technologies to the world. From the development of sonar during the First World War to industry-leading breakthroughs in lab-on-a-chip technologies, the developments that have come from the minds of ECE researchers are countless.
In recent years, ECE has become a world leader in nanotechnology research and has a strong partnership with one of the most advanced nanotechnology research centres in North America, the National Institute for Nanotechnology. These developments in miniaturization influence much of our research as it continues to grow and help shape the future.
ECE encompasses twelve primary research areas, but the interdisciplinary nature of engineering means that many of our faculty, postdoctoral fellows, and graduate students engage in collaborative efforts across multiple areas and with colleagues from different departments and faculties. This approach results in a broad, interdisciplinary perspective that drives our original, groundbreaking research.
The University of Alberta acknowledges that we are located on Treaty 6 territory, and respects the histories, languages and cultures of First Nations, Métis, Inuit and all FirstPeoples of Canada, whose presence continues to enrich our vibrant community.
The University of Alberta is a community of knowledge seekers, change makers and world shapers who lead with purpose each and every day. We are home to over 14,000 faculty and staff, more than 40,000 students and a growing community of 300,000 alumni worldwide.
Your work will have a meaningful influence on a fascinating cross-section of people - from our students and community members, to our renowned researchers and innovators, making discoveries and generating solutions that make the world healthier, safer, stronger and more just. Learn more.
At the University of Alberta, we are committed to creating an inclusive and accessible hiring process for all candidates. If you require accommodations to participate in the interview process, please let us know at the time of booking your interview and we will make every effort to accommodate your needs.
We thank all applicants for their interest; however, only those individuals selected for an interview will be contacted.
All University employees have a responsibility to foster a workplace that prioritizes safety in all its forms—physical, cultural, and psychological. This is achieved by promoting a safe environment, adhering to all safety laws, policies and procedures, completing all required safety training, identifying hazards and implementing controls, reporting incidents, and contributing to a culture of belonging and respect, while endeavoring to ensure that all colleagues feel valued and safe to express their thoughts, perspectives and concerns.
The University of Alberta is committed to creating a university community where everyone feels valued, barriers to success are removed, and thriving connections are fostered. We welcome applications from all qualified persons. We encourage women, First Nations, Métis and Inuit persons, members of visible minority groups, persons with disabilities, persons of any sexual orientation or gender identity and expression, and all those who may contribute to the further diversification of ideas and the University to apply.
L’Université de l’Alberta s’engage à créer une communauté universitaire où chaque personne se sent valorisée, où les obstacles à la réussite sont éliminés et où des connexions enrichissantes peuvent se développer. Nous accueillons les demandes de toutes les personnes qualifiées. Nous encourageons les femmes; Premières nations, Métis et Inuits; membres des groupes minoritaires visibles; personnes handicapées; personnes de toute orientation sexuelle ou identité et expression de genre; et toutes les personnes qui peuvent contribuer à la diversification des idées et à l'université à postuler.
