Postdoc: Stochastic thermodynamics of optical sensing

Work Activities

Sensing is vital to all information processing systems, ranging from human-made devices to living matter. An important question in this context is whether cooperativity can improve the sensing performance of otherwise isolated parts of a system. In other words: Are two (or more) coupled sensors better than one? This question has inspired major efforts in optics and biology, but these efforts have remained disconnected so far. In the InfoMatter department at AMOLF, we have an open postdoc position aimed at understanding whether and how cooperativity can enhance sensing performance. The successful candidate will work as a link between three research groups, leveraging the most innovative ideas in stochastic thermodynamics, biophysics, and nonlinear optics, to understand fundamental limits and opportunities of cooperative sensing. The ideal candidate is enthusiastic about optical experiments and theory, but we are willing to consider exceptional candidates with preference for theory only. The position comes with much flexibility. Feel free to contact us if you would like to pursue a somewhat different project, but still along the general lines of sensing and stochastic thermodynamics, in cooperation with our groups.

Qualifications

You need to meet the requirements for a doctors-degree and must have research experience in a non-Dutch academic environment. You have a PhD degree in physics or a closely related field. Ideally, you have: A background in optics/nanophotonics or stochastic thermodynamics An affinity for experiments An ability to work in a small team, and supervise younger students Enthusiasm for exploring "boundaries between fields" Interest in statistical physics, nonlinear optics, and thermodynamics The group strongly values diversity, and researchers from all backgrounds are invited to apply.

Work environment
AMOLF is a part of NWO-I and initiate and performs leading fundamental research on the physics of complex forms of matter, and to create new functional materials, in partnership with academia and industry. The institute is located at Amsterdam Science Park and currently employs about 140 researchers and 80 support employees. www.amolf.nl
In the Interacting Photons group we study emergent phenomena and functionalities of stochastic nonlinear optical systems. Most of our group members enjoy both experiment and theory. We strongly value an inclusive and diverse environment. We regularly interact with colleagues with different backgrounds in AMOLF and beyond. In fact, this project involves a collaboration with members of the Biochemical Networks and Systems Biology groups. You will have extensive support from the group leaders, other group members, the technical staff (software, electronics, mechanics, etc.) at AMOLF.
Working conditions

• The working atmosphere at the institute is largely determined by young, enthusiastic, mostly foreign employees. Communication is informal and runs through short lines of communication.
• The position is intended as full-time (40 hours / week, 12 months / year) appointment in the service of the Netherlands Foundation of Scientific Research Institutes (NWO-I) for the duration of two years
• Salary is in scale 10 (CAO-OI) which starts at 4.065 Euro’s gross per month, and a range of employment benefits.
• AMOLF assists any new foreign Postdoc with housing and visa applications and compensates their transport costs and furnishing expenses.

More information?
For further information about the position, please contact:
Dr. Said Rodriguez
Group leader Interacting Photons
E-mail: s.rodriguez@amolf.nl
Phone: +31 (0)20-754 7100
Application
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Diversity code
AMOLF is highly committed to an inclusive and diverse work environment: we want to develop talent and creativity by bringing together people from different backgrounds and cultures. We recruit and select on the basis of competencies and talents. We strongly encourage anyone with the right qualifications to apply for the vacancy, regardless of age, gender, origin, sexual orientation or physical ability.
AMOLF has won the NNV Diversity Award 2022, which is awarded every two years by the Netherlands Physical Society for demonstrating the most successful implementation of equality, diversity and inclusion (EDI).
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