We are searching for a highly motivated PhD student with a background in physics, engineering, or a related field. The topic of the thesis project will focus on the generation of short structured light pulses and their application to the control of magnetic and spin systems. The PhD degree can be pursued through either the Department of Physics or the School of Engineering Science at Simon Fraser University, depending on the successful candidate's preference.
The ideal student will hold a MSc or equivalent degree and will have prior experience with at least one of the following: femtosecond lasers, vacuum systems, optical instruments, or measurement automation. Upon joining our group, they will receive advanced training related to femtosecond laser pulse compression using gas-filled hollow-core fibres, structured light, waveform sampling, ultrafast spectroscopy, and magnetism.
Our research space is a >200 m2 footprint facility that houses 3 independent femtosecond laser systems, along with 4 optical parametric amplifiers that enable wavelength conversion between 200 nm and 8 µm. Vibrationally-isolated floors, floating optical tables, air conditioning, and high ceilings provide the excellent stability required for time-resolved measurements with femtosecond or attosecond precision.
Simon Fraser University is located on Burnaby Mountain in Metro Vancouver, Canada. Vancouver is a highly international city that provides an ideal blend between urban living and exquisite nature, and is consistently ranked as one of the most livable cities in the world. There are excellent opportunities for outdoor activities in the surrounding region, including skiing, hiking, water sports, and more.
This project is a collaboration with a group at the Technical University of Graz in Graz, Austria. There will be opportunities for research-related travel to Graz and to international conferences.
If you find this research exciting and you're motivated to develop innovative solutions to ambitious challenges, you are encouraged to apply! Please send an email to Prof. Shawn Sederberg at shawn_sederberg@sfu.ca, including a short cover letter, CV, full academic transcripts, and proof of English language proficiency. Review of applications will begin immediately and continue until a suitable candidate has been found.