Postdoc in Metasurfaces and optical manipulation

Would you like to explore how metasurfaces can be used to manipulate light and matter? In this postdoctoral position, you will combine advanced nanofabrication, optical experiments, and simulations to push the boundaries of nanophotonics and optical manipulation.

About us

At the department of Physics and Astronomy, we push the boundaries of the unknown. Curiosity drives us to explore the fundamental laws that govern our world, the structures of the universe, and the building blocks with which we create new and better materials and energy systems. We conduct cutting-edge research in a creative and international setting, working alongside other academic institutions at the very forefront of their fields. Science, learning and collaboration are at the heart of what we do, and we work in an environment where inclusion and excellence go hand in hand.

The Division of Nano- and Biophysics at Chalmers University of Technology conducts interdisciplinary research at the interface of physics, nanoscience, and biology. Our research spans biomolecular physics, nanophotonics, and light–matter interactions, with a growing focus on nanoscale optical manipulation and sensing.

About the research project 

The postdoc position focuses on the design, fabrication, and analysis of optical metasurfaces, integration of metasurfaces with various laser sources, and applications thereof, including manipulation of microparticles in liquids using optical forces and/or photothermally induced liquid flows. The position involves cleanroom work, in particular electron beam lithography, as well as experimental studies in advanced optics laboratories. Specific formulation of research objectives will be decided in discussions with the successful applicant.

Who we are looking for

The following requirements are mandatory:

• A doctoral degree in physics, photonics or an equivalent foreign degree, obtained within the last three years. This eligibility requirement must be met no later than the time the employment decision is made 
• Strong written and verbal communication skills in English
• Extensive documented experience of electron beam lithography, preferably in several different material systems, optical experiments, and optical simulations.

You are expected to be somewhat accustomed to teaching, and to demonstrate good potential within research and education.

The following personal characteristics are crucial:

• Independence in driving research.
• Curiosity.
• Resilience to overcome experimental failures.
• Strong communication and collaborative skills.

What you will do

• You will formulate reasarch goals and methodologies together with advisors and colleges.
• You will fabricate optical metasurfaces and miniature laser sources in Chalmers cleanroom, and you will perform experiments and simulations on these samples.
• Your main responsiblity is to conduct and present cutting edge research so as to qualify yourself for further career steps in academia or industry
• You will contribute to maintenance of research labs
• You might engage in teaching and supervision at the undergraduate/master’s level

The position is meritorious for future roles in academia, industry, or the public sector.

Contract terms

The position is a temporary full-time employment for two years with the possibility of a one-year extension.

The position requires physical presence throughout the entire employment. A valid residence permit must be presented by the start date, otherwise the offer may be withdrawn.

What we offer

• As a postdoc at Chalmers, you are an employee and enjoy all employee benefits. Read more about  working at Chalmers  and our benefits  for employees.

• A dynamic and inspiring working environment in the coastal city of Gothenburg.

• Read more about Sweden’s generous parental leave, subsidized day care, free schools, healthcare etc at Move To Gothenburg.

Chalmers is dedicated to improving gender balance and actively works with equality projects, such as the GENIE Initiative for gender equality and excellence. We celebrate diversity and consider equality and inclusion as fundamental aspects of all our activities.

If Swedish is not your native language, Chalmers offers Swedish courses to help you settle in.

Application procedure

The application should be written in English be attached as PDF-files, as below. Maximum size for each file is 40 MB. Please note that the system does not support Zip files.

CV

• A comprehensive CV, including a complete list of publications.
• Details of previous teaching and pedagogical experience.

Personal letter

• A brief introduction about yourself.
• A summary of your previous research fields and key research outcomes.
• An outline of your future goals and research focus.

Use the button at the foot of the page to reach the application form. 

A background check may be conducted as part of the application process.

Please note: The applicant is responsible for ensuring that the application is complete. Incomplete applications and applications sent by email will not be considered. Contact details to references will be requested after the interview.

We welcome your application no later than December 5, 2026

For questions, please contact:

Mikael Käll
Professor

mikael.kall@chalmers.se

We look forward to your application!

*Chalmers declines to consider all offers of further announcement publishing or other types of support for the recruiting process in connection with this position. * 

Chalmers University of Technology in Gothenburg conducts research and education in technology and natural sciences at a high international level. The university has 3100 employees and 10,000 students, and offers education in engineering, science, shipping and architecture. With scientific excellence as a basis, Chalmers promotes knowledge and technical solutions for a sustainable world. Through global commitment and entrepreneurship, we foster an innovative spirit, in close collaboration with wider society.
Chalmers was founded in 1829 and has the same motto today as it did then: Avancez – forward.