The research project involves a combination of hardware and software development, including optical system implementation, laboratory experimentation, and computational modeling, providing comprehensive training in both experimental photonics and system-level engineering.
Who we are?
The QOPHI LAB (Quantum, Communication, Photonic and Integration Lab) is a research laboratory specialized in photonics and optical communications, encompassing both classical and quantum domains. Its activities focus on areas such as fiber-based and free-space optical communications, integrated photonics, optoelectronic systems, and quantum technologies, including Quantum Key Distribution (QKD).
The laboratory is equipped with advanced infrastructure for the characterization of photonic devices at wafer level, as well as experimental platforms for optical system validation in both guided and free-space environments. In addition, it leverages simulation tools for device- and system-level analysis, supporting the design and optimization of complex photonic architectures.
QOPHI LAB actively participates in national and international R&D projects, including European frameworks, and maintains strong collaborations with industry, contributing to technology transfer and the development of innovative solutions in fields such as underwater communications, autonomous systems, and emerging quantum communication networks.
About the Position:
The successful candidate will work on the design, development, and experimental validation of a novel optical communication system for subsea environments, including laboratory implementation on optical benches, testing in controlled water tanks, and subsequent validation in relevant marine conditions. The research will focus on key technical challenges such as optical beam steering, pointing and alignment between transceivers, and system robustness under variable underwater channel conditions, with potential integration into hybrid acoustic-optical architectures.
What we offer?
We offer a 4-year PhD contract within an annual gross salary of approximately €28,000.
The doctoral candidate will be enrolled in the DocTIC Doctoral Programme at the Universidade de Vigo throughout the entire duration of the project; therefore the candidate must meet the eligibility criteria for the DocTIC programme (https://doctic.uvigo.es/en/access/admission-criteria).
The first two years of the PhD will be carried out at the Universidade de Vigo within the QOPHI LAB, where the candidate will receive specialized training in integrated photonics and free-space optical communications. This phase will include both theoretical and experimental work, covering system design, optical hardware development, and software-based modeling and data analysis.
The final two years of the contract will be carried out in Madrid in collaboration with Navantia, where the candidate will work in an industrial research environment focused on the integration and application of photonic and optical communication technologies in maritime systems.
Requirements:
- Master’s degree (or equivalent qualification) in Telecommunications Engineering, Photonics, Physics, Electrical Engineering, or related disciplines.
- Good level of English (written and spoken).
Desired qualifications and attributes:
- Basic knowledge of optical communications, photonics, or electromagnetic wave propagation.
- Interest in optical system design, experimental physics, and/or signal processing.
- Familiarity with programming and data analysis tools (e.g., MATLAB or Python).
- Previous laboratory experience is beneficial but not mandatory.
- Strong motivation for research and willingness to learn advanced experimental and theoretical techniques.
- Ability to work in multidisciplinary and collaborative research environments.
- Good communication skills and a proactive attitude.
Application for EoI:
Applicants should provide an up-to-date CV, together with the name and contact details of one referee, by sending the required documents to dalvarez@com.uvigo.es.
Important remark: This is a Call for expressions of interest
The Universidade de Vigo has its own official application process, hiring on the basis of merit and is strongly committed to equity and diversity within its community. All qualified applicants will receive consideration for employment without regard to gender, ethnicity, religion, sexual orientation, national origin, disability status, or any other characteristic protected by law.
The process has the following stages (chronologically):
- The candidate submits an expression of interest.
- Once the official application process starts, we will send an email to the candidate, who will proceed to the submission of his/her formal application. Please, bear in mind that the application process is mandatory and will only be open for 10 working days.
- The selection committee will evaluate only the received candidatures through the official application procedure and will announce the shortlist of candidates that will pass to the next stage.
- The shortlisted candidates will be interviewed online by the committee.
- The selected candidate will be notified as soon as possible after the interviews.
TENTATIVE start date OCTOBER 2026
