Job description

As semiconductor feature sizes are going down, device complexity is going up, and high yield is critical there is an urgent need for new and improved metrology solutions to meet these challenges. Digital holography (DH) is a technology that can provide single shot full wavefield imaging of flat single layered structures. However, its utility to more complex-shaped multi-layered structures is limited.

In this project you will design and construct advanced DH systems to visualize complex optical samples comprising of multiple layers, rough surfaces, curved surfaces, and/or defects. You will utilize multi-angle and/or multi-wavelength DH measurements, borrowing from knowledge in optical (coherence) tomography, and convert them to accurate sample reconstructions using advanced signal processing and tomographic reconstruction algorithms. With the inclusion of noise the object estimation accuracy will be based on statistical concepts and prior knowledge of the sample geometry. You investigate and optimize the trade-off between accuracy and imaging speed. For real-time application, the speed and accuracy of the algorithms will be improved using machine learning techniques. The developed techniques will be applied to metrology of semiconductor samples.

Job requirements

You are an enthusiastic candidates with a ‘drive’ for applied physics and building high performance imaging systems. She or he has a demonstrable interest in optics, signal processing, and mathematics or machine learning. The candidate should have an MSc degree in Applied Physics, Electrical Engineering, or the equivalent. The PhD position is firmly imbedded in a physics environment, but the candidate strongly interacts with partners in applied physics, applied mathematics, and high-tech industry. Good communication skills in English are a prerequisite.

TU Delft (Delft University of Technology)

Working at TU Delft means contributing to solutions that really make a difference.

For over 180 years, we have been training engineers who make an impact worldwide in companies, government bodies, or as entrepreneurs. Our alumni turn knowledge into concrete solutions for the challenges of today and tomorrow. These challenges are changing rapidly. That is why we focus on themes such as energy, climate, digitalisation, artificial intelligence (AI), and smart mobility every day. Our education and research are directly aligned with what society needs now and in the future.

At TU Delft, our people make the difference. With their knowledge and curiosity, our staff provide a high-quality education and conduct pioneering research that extends beyond the campus. You will have the opportunity to take the initiative, work with others, and grow as a professional. Working at TU Delft means join an international community of professionals and students. Together, we create knowledge, innovations, and solutions that help move the world forward.

Faculty Applied Sciences

With more than 1,100 employees, including 150 pioneering principal investigators, as well as a population of about 3,600 passionate students, the Faculty of Applied Sciences is an inspiring scientific ecosystem. Focusing on key enabling technologies, such as quantum- and nanotechnology, photonics, biotechnology, synthetic biology and materials for energy storage and conversion, our faculty aims to provide solutions to important problems of the 21st century. To that end, we educate innovative students in broad Bachelor's and specialist Master's programmes with a strong research component. Our scientists conduct ground-breaking fundamental and applied research in the fields of Life and Health Science & Technology, Nanoscience, Chemical Engineering, Radiation Science & Technology, and Engineering Physics. We are also training the next generation of high school teachers.

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