DC13 – Thermal Optimisation of Photonic Devices Using Thermoelectric Cooling
Objective: Integrate thermoelectric coolers into photonic devices and optimise thermal performance to reduce energy consumption and enhance operational stability.
Host Institution: Host Institution III-V Lab
Location: Palaiseau, France
Main Supervisor: Dr. Alexandre Shen (III-V Lab), France
Co-Supervisors: Dr. Kafil M. Razeeb, UCC (Ireland), Prof. Dr. Kornelius Nielsch, IFW (Germany)
Duration: 36 months (full-time employment)
PhD-awarding Institution: Technische Universität Dresden, Germany
Project Overview
DC13 will focus on the development and validation of thermoelectric cooling solutions for advanced photonic devices within the MGICIAN Doctoral Network. This project will address the thermal management challenges in laser diodes and integrated optical platforms. Particular emphasis is placed on improving thermal stability, wavelength control, energy efficiency, and operational reliability.
This project will combine thermal modelling, system integration, and experimental validation to establish device-cooling-performance relationships and ensure compatibility with scalable and application-oriented photonic technologies.
Research Tasks and Training Objectives
The Doctoral Candidate (m/f/div) will:
- Analyse the thermal behaviour and heat generation mechanisms in photonic devices
- Develop and apply numerical thermal models for photonic devices integrated with thermoelectric coolers
- Elaborate on a process of III-V-based Photonic Integrated Circuit (PIC), compatible with thermoelectric module integration
- Support the integration of thermoelectric cooling solutions into photonic platforms
- Experimentally evaluate thermal stability, wavelength control, and energy efficiency of cooled devices
- Implement and demonstrate a thermoelectric module-integrated PIC with lasers or a semiconductor optical amplifier (SOA)
- Assess the impact of thermoelectric cooling on device lifetime and reliability
- Collaborate closely with module and system-focused DCs within the network
- Participate in secondments, network-wide scientific training, and transferable skills activities
- Disseminate research results through peer-reviewed publications, international conferences, and outreach initiatives
Secondments
To strengthen interdisciplinary training and cross-sector knowledge transfer, DC13 will undertake the following secondments:
- University College Cork (Ireland) – 3 months
Focus: Integration of thermoelectric modules and advanced interface concepts - IFW Dresden (Germany) – 3 months
Focus: Performance optimisation of thermoelectric modules for photonic applications
Requirements
Education
Master’s degree (or equivalent) in Physics, Electrical Engineering, Materials Science, or a closely related field. Applicants must be eligible to enrol in a PhD programme at Technische Universität Dresden
Technical Competences
- Strong background in photonics, device physics, or thermal management
- Experience with numerical modelling tools (e.g., COMSOL, FEM, or similar software)
- Knowledge of semiconductor devices or laser systems is advantageous
- Experience with experimental device characterisation is desirable
- Interest in thermoelectric cooling technologies and cross-sector applications
Personal Skills
- Strong analytical and interdisciplinary problem-solving abilities
- Ability to work independently and within an international collaborative research network
- Excellent written and spoken English
Documents Required
- Copies of Bachelor’s and Master’s diplomas and transcripts (with certified translations if applicable)
- Candidates may apply before obtaining their Master’s degree by submitting a provisional certificate; however, employment cannot commence before the degree is formally awarded
Join MGICIAN as a Doctoral Candidate
Apply now and become part of MGICIAN as a Doctoral Candidate. Shape the future of sustainable solid-state cooling with us.