Fabrication and Characterization of Low-Loss Phase-Change Materials for Programmable Nanophotonics

The Challenge Programmable nanophotonic devices are emerging as a key technology for intelligent sensing in future physical AI systems. Phase-change materials (PCMs) provide a promising platform for realizing such functionality through large, reversible, and non-volatile changes in optical properties. However, the widespread adoption of PCM platforms for photonic applications remains limited by optical losses, switching reliability, and an incomplete understanding of the physical mechanisms governing phase transitions in emerging low-loss PCM materials. Addressing these challenges is key for next-generation reconfigurable metasurfaces and nanophotonics technologies. What You Will Do In this MSc thesis/internship project, you will experimentally investigate different thin-film phase-change materials for programmable photonic applications. The work will focus on the fabrication of PCM thin films and the characterization of their structural, optical, and electrical properties. You will study how processing conditions affect phase-transition behavior, optical contrast, and material stability, providing insight into the different PCM platforms for future reconfigurable photonic devices. You will: Fabricate low-loss PCM thin films for nanophotonic applications Study the influence of growth and post-processing conditions on material properties and stability Characterize the optical, electrical, and structural properties of PCM thin films Explore phase-transition dynamics and switching performance Your experimental work will be complemented by data analysis, enabling you to draw conclusion between material properties, processing conditions, and switching performance. In addition, you will have the opportunity to work in an international research environment, collaborating with experienced researchers and engineers and gaining valuable guidance throughout your scientific development. What You Should Bring Along You are a motivated and curious MSc student with a passion for hands-on experimental research. You have a background in nanoscience, engineering, physics, materials science, chemistry, or a related field. Prior experience with laboratory work, materials characterization, data analysis, or scientific programming is an asset. You are eager to learn, enjoy challenges, and possess strong communication skills and a good command of English. Type of internship : Master internship Duration : at least 6 months Required educational background : Nanoscience & Nanotechnology, Physics, Electrotechnics/Electrical Engineering, Electromechanical engineering, Materials Engineering, Mechanical Engineering, Chemistry/Chemical Engineering University promotor : Jan Genoe (KU Leuven) Supervising scientist(s) : For further information or for application, please contact Gokhan Kara ( Gokhan.Kara@imec.be ) The reference code for this position is 2026-INT-286 . Mention this reference code in your application. Imec allowance will be provided for students studying at a non-Belgian university. Applications should include the following information: resume motivation current study Incomplete applications will not be considered