About this position
Integrated optics is currently experiencing unprecedented growth, driven largely by the rapid expansion of artificial intelligence (AI), cloud computing, and high-performance data processing applications. As AI models continue to increase in size and computational complexity, the demand for high-bandwidth, low-latency, and energy-efficient interconnects has become one of the key technological challenges in modern computing systems. Optical interconnects are emerging as a promising solution, offering significantly higher data throughput and lower power consumption compared to conventional electrical links.
To fully realize the potential of integrated optical systems, continuous improvements are required at multiple levels, including system architecture, photonic integrated circuits (PICs), electronic integrated circuits (EICs), and advanced packaging technologies. The co-design and optimization of these building blocks are essential for achieving breakthroughs in data rate, power efficiency, scalability, and overall system cost.
This PhD project focuses on the electronic integrated circuit components of optical communication systems, with particular emphasis on the transmitter (TX) driver and receiver (RX) transimpedance amplifier (TIA). These circuits play a critical role in determining the overall performance of optical links, directly impacting achievable bandwidth, signal integrity, energy efficiency, and system robustness.
The primary objective of the project is to develop novel circuit topologies and design techniques that push the state of the art in high-speed optical interfaces. Key research goals include increasing bandwidth and data rate capability, improving the driving strength and efficiency of optical modulators, enhancing TIA sensitivity and speed, and minimizing power consumption while maintaining high performance. Through innovative circuit design and technology optimization, the project aims to contribute to the next generation of energy-efficient and cost-effective integrated optical communication systems for AI and data-centric applications.
Information
In this role you will drive your own PhD research project focused on high-speed optical transceiver electronics, with particular emphasis on transmitter (TX) driver and receiver transimpedance amplifier (TIA):
- Understanding applications, architecture, building blocks, integration, requirements, limitations and state of the art in optical transceivers
- Understanding modeling of the optical modulators and simulation platform for simulation optical transceivers
- Develop high-bandwidth TX driver architectures for advanced optical modulators.
- Design energy-efficient high-sensitivity TIAs capable of supporting next-generation optical communication standards.
- Improve overall transmitter and receiver speed while minimizing power consumption.
- Enhance modulator driving capability and receiver sensitivity.
- Investigate circuit and system-level trade-offs between bandwidth, noise, linearity, power, and cost.
- Contribute to scalable electronic solutions for future AI-driven optical interconnects.
- Design, implement and characterize the most promising topology for driver and TIA in advanced semiconductor technology
Requirements
Specific Requirements
- Master Degree in Electrical Engineering
- Experience in design and implementation of analog integrated circuits
- Experience in using Cadence, Spectre, ADS/Momentum, Matlab
- Highly motivated student, eager to discover and explain new phenomena
- Passion for improving performance of analog integrated circuit operating at high frequencies
- Fast learner, autonomous and creative, highly motivated, persistent and dedicated
- Good communication skills and willing to work with different people
- Fluent in English, both spoken and written
How to apply
- Read the full advert on the source site — it carries the authoritative terms.
- Prepare your SOP, CV, transcripts and referees before the deadline.
- Apply through the university's own portal. Never pay a fee to a third party.