Postdoc in Topological Photonics DTU Electro

The Quantum and Nanophotonics Section at DTU Electro is seeking a highly motivated postdoc to be a part of a program on Symmetry-guided discovery of topological photonics led by Assoc. Prof. Thomas Christensen who moved from MIT to DTU in early 2023.

The program aims to uncover novel kinds of photonic topology using recent ideas and tools at the intersection of topological band theory symmetry analysis and group theory. You will work on developing and applying these ideas to discover new photonic phenomena implement associated computational tooling and to find opportunities for proof-of-principles demonstrations with experimental collaborators. While the general theme of the postdoc will center on advancing the understanding of the interplay between photonic topology and symmetry in unexplored settings the particulars are open and may encompass several directions. These directions may e.g. include inverse design of topologically nontrivial crystals or the pursuit of topology in non-Hermitian settings under time-periodic driving (space-time symmetry) under magnetic symmetry or even in non-crystalline settings.

The program aims to advance the frontiers of theoretical photonics deepen our understanding of fundamental wave-phenomena and investigate the applications of topology in photonics.

Responsibilities
You will carry out theoretical and computational work in topological photonics and nanophotonics. This will involve analyzing and computing topological properties of photonic structures as well as planning and envisioning new research directions. The project is expected to involve approximately equal measure of analytical computational and exploratory work. You are expected to help advance the theoretical understanding e.g. by development of new theoretical frameworks applying existing frameworks and implementing novel methodology in shared code repositories. You will also assist in instructing and guiding the research of MSc and PhD students.

Qualifications
As a formal qualification you must hold a PhD degree (or equivalent).

Special consideration will be given to candidates with:

• A background in theoretical or computational photonics and condensed matter physics
• First-rate mathematical ability
• Experience with symmetry analysis group theory or topological band theory
• Demonstrated experience in programming and contributions to open-source software
• Excellent communication skills e.g. demonstrated by a track-record of publications
• Familiarity with topological physics or inverse design / topology optimization

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.

The project will be supervised by Assoc. Prof. Thomas Christensen and the postdoc is expected to interact and collaborate with his peer network including at the Massachusetts Institute of Technology (MIT) and elsewhere in the US Europe and Asia.

Salary and terms of employment
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 2 years. The starting date is as early as possible.

You can read more aboutcareer paths at DTU here.

Further information
For more information please contact Thomas Christensen ( tel.: ).

You can read more about DTU Electro and the Quantum and Nanophotonics Sectionhere.

If you are applying from abroad you may find useful information on working in Denmark and at DTU atDTU Moving to Denmark.

Application procedure
Your complete online application must be submitted no later than1 February 2026 (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:

• Application (cover letter)
• CV
• Academic diplomas(MSc/PhD in English)
• List of publications
• List of 1-2 academic references (to contact for letter of recommendations)
• A writing sample e.g. PhD thesis (or draft) thesis chapter first-authored publication or similar demonstrating your work and your dissemination of it

Applications may be assessed on a running basis.

Applications received after the deadline will not be considered.

All interested candidates irrespective of age genderdisability race religion or ethnic background are encouraged to apply. We value an inclusive and diverse environment and believe that a diversity of backgrounds and experiences is essential in fostering a creative and successful academic environment.

DTU Electro has 270 employees and span activities in physics photonics and electrical engineering. Research is performed within nanophotonics lasers quantum photonics optical sensors LEDs photovoltaics ultra-high speed optical transmission systems and bio-photonics.

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 UNs 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 13500 students and 6000 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.