PhD Position Development of a Low-Voltage Multi-Beam SEM for High-Throughput Imaging

PhD Development of a Low-Voltage Multi-Beam SEM for High-Throughput Imaging | TU Delft

Job description

Scanning Electron Microscopy (SEM) plays a central role in today’s nanoscale imaging across both science and industry. Yet, despite its exceptional spatial resolution, the limited throughput of conventional single-beam SEMs continues to restrict their use in large-area and high-volume applications.

As a PhD candidate at TU Delft, working in close collaboration with our industrial partner Delmic and academic partner AMOLF, you will develop a proof-of-concept prototype of a low-voltage multi-beam SEM that combines high-throughput imaging with integrated cathodoluminescence (CL) detection enabling large-area imaging of biological samples.

This four-year research programme will proceed in three main phases. In the initial phase, you will develop and optimize physical and numerical models describing the electron optics of the complete probe-forming column, including the multi-beam generation unit, imaging lenses, scanning system, and signal detection within a multi-beam framework. For this purpose, you will use commercial simulation software tools such as EOD and GPT, while also developing custom Python-based simulation scripts. TU Delft will support your research with access to the DelftBlue supercomputer for large-scale and intensive modelling.

In the second phase, you will work with and assist our technicians on the design and fabrication of electron-optical components, which depending on the final design, may be realized using MEMS technology, conventional precision machining, or a combination of both. The final phase will focus on testing and validating the performance of the prototype, comparing experimental and simulated results to refine both the design and the underlying models.

As part of your role, you will publish your findings in scientific journals, present at leading international conferences, and contribute to the supervision of BSc and MSc students through tutorials, exercises, and laboratory work.

You will join the Microscopy Instrumentation and Technique (MInT) group within the Department of Imaging Physics, a multidisciplinary team of researchers specializing in electron and ion optics instrumentation, MEMS technology, signal detection, and computational imaging. We foster a welcoming, collaborative, and supportive environment where knowledge exchange and teamwork are strongly encouraged.

Together, we share a drive to conduct fundamental research that leads to next-generation instruments, combining our expertise in physics, electronics, and software technology. You will receive extensive hands-on training and advanced courses in electron optics, MEMS, SEMs, and detection systems, as well as personalized coaching to help you build a strong career in research.

Job requirements

You are a highly motivated researcher with a strong interest in electron optics, instrumentation development, and computational modelling, eager to bridge simulation and experiment to realize next-generation electron microscopy systems. You enjoy working at the interface of fundamental research and industrial innovation, collaborating with both academic and industrial partners to achieve tangible results. Embracing the opportunity to work with leading industrial partners, you know how to collaborate and achieve meaningful results geared to the development of pragmatic applications. You also put your curiosity to good use: you don’t take anomalies for granted and take the initiative to dig deeper and spar with experts. Harnessing your communication skills, you convince colleagues at TU Delft and Delmic of your approach, models and programs. And you enjoy interacting with and coaching talented bachelor and master students, while expanding your own knowledge and competencies.

You also have:

• An MSc degree in Applied Physics, Electrical Engineering or a closely related field.
• Demonstrable skills in numerical modeling, simulation, and data analysis.
• A solid understanding of Physics, Optics, Electron Optics and microscopy systems.
• A proactive and curious mindset, with the ability to explore complex problems independently and collaboratively.
• A good command of spoken and written English, as you’ll be working in an internationally diverse community. You will also write scientific articles and your dissertation in English and participate in English-taught courses.
• An enthusiasm for coaching bachelor and master students, and for presenting your work in scientific articles and international conferences.

TU Delft (Delft University of Technology)

Delft University of Technology is built on strong foundations. As creators of the world-famous Dutch waterworks and pioneers in biotech, TU Delft is a top international university combining science, engineering and design. It delivers world class results in education, research and innovation to address challenges in the areas of energy, climate, mobility, health and digital society. For generations, our engineers have proven to be entrepreneurial problem-solvers, both in business and in a social context. Together, we imagine, invent and create solutions using technology to have a positive impact on a global scale.

Faculty of 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.

Conditions of employment

Doctoral candidates will be offered a 4-year period of employment in principle, but in the form of 2 employment contracts. An initial 1.5 year contract with an official go/no go progress assessment within 15 months, followed by an additional contract for the remaining 2.5 years assuming everything goes well and performance requirements are met.

Salary and benefits are in accordance with the Collective Labour Agreement for Dutch Universities, increasing from €3059 - €3881 gross per month, from the first year to the fourth year based on a fulltime contract (38 hours), plus 8% holiday allowance and an end-of-year bonus of 8.3%.

As a PhD candidate you will be enrolled in the TU Delft Graduate School. The TU Delft Graduate School provides an inspiring research environment with an excellent team of supervisors, academic staff and a mentor. The Doctoral Education Programme is aimed at developing your transferable, discipline-related and research skills.

The TU Delft offers a customisable compensation package, discounts on health insurance, and a monthly work costs contribution. Flexible work schedules can be arranged.

Additional information

For more information about this vacancy, please contact Dr. Ali Gheidari (a.m.gheidari@tudelft.nl).