TU Eindhoven Launches Dual PhD in Terahertz Phototransistors
Eindhoven, Tuesday, 12 August 2025.
TU Eindhoven offers a unique dual PhD program focusing on terahertz phototransistors, promising innovations in telecommunications and sensing, starting November 2025 with collaborative training in Germany.
A New Era in Photonics and Terahertz Technology
The dual PhD program unveiled by Eindhoven University of Technology (TU Eindhoven) in partnership with TU Darmstadt stands as a remarkable interdisciplinary effort to advance terahertz phototransistor technology. Initiated with two years of intensive study at TU Eindhoven in the Netherlands, followed by two years at TU Darmstadt in Germany, this program is geared towards producing cutting-edge semiconductor devices capable of converting laser light into high-power terahertz signals [1][2].
Benefits of Terahertz Phototransistors
The potential applications of terahertz phototransistors are numerous, with notable implications for sectors such as telecommunication, medical imaging, and secure wireless communications. These devices promise to revolutionize non-invasive cancer detection through enhanced imaging capabilities and provide robust platforms for ultra-secure communication systems [1][2]. By bridging the gap in current photonic systems, the development of these devices could indeed signal a significant leap forward in both scientific research and practical applications [1][2].
Mechanics of Innovation
The project involves crafting semiconductor heterostructures to optimize the phototransistors’ efficacy. This intricate process includes the growth of semiconductor layers, fabrication of the devices, and their subsequent characterization using lasers and on-chip antennas [2]. This rigorous research draws on expertise from both institutions’ specialized laboratories: the Terahertz Nanophotonics and Integration Technology Lab (TNIT) at TU Eindhoven, and the Terahertz Devices and Systems Lab (TSYS) at TU Darmstadt under the guidance of Professor Sascha Preu [1][2].
An Interdisciplinary Approach
Prospective candidates for this dual PhD program are expected to possess a master’s degree in Electrical Engineering or Physics, alongside a strong inclination for interdisciplinary research and cooperation with industry partners [1][2]. The role demands technical prowess in semiconductors, laser technology, and terahertz sensors, while also emphasizing a dedication to advancing educational methodologies and student mentorship [2].