Integrated Photonics Researcher - #258991

Natcast (short for The National Center for the Advancement of Semiconductor Technology) is a new, purpose-built, non-profit entity created to operate the National Semiconductor Technology Center (NSTC) consortium, established by the CHIPS Act of the U.S. government.

Working at Natcast represents an opportunity to help extend America’s leadership in semiconductor technology, significantly reduce the time and cost of moving from idea to commercialization, and build and sustain a semiconductor workforce development ecosystem.

These efforts to advance semiconductor technology and seed new industries built on the capabilities of a wide range of advanced chips hold the potential to benefit the country and the world for generations to come.

In this role you will advance the frontier of integrated photonics at America's premier semiconductor research facility, developing breakthrough solutions that merge optical and electronic technologies while revolutionizing data transmission and sensing capabilities.

Every day you will design and optimize photonic circuits, working at the intersection of optics and semiconductors to create innovative solutions that enhance America's leadership in next-generation computing and communications technologies.

To thrive in this role you must combine deep photonics expertise with semiconductor fabrication knowledge, demonstrating both theoretical mastery and practical implementation skills while pushing the boundaries of integrated photonic systems.

At NY CREATES' Albany NanoTech Complex, you'll work within Natcast's CHIPS for America R&D Flagship Facility, collaborating with world-class researchers to develop photonic innovations that will transform telecommunications, data centers, and sensing applications.

Key Responsibilities

Research & Development:

• Lead and execute research initiatives focused on integrated photonics, including novel photonic circuits and architectures.
• Design advanced photonic circuits for applications such as optical communication, signal processing, and sensing.
• Develop and optimize waveguide architectures, modulators, and photodetectors for next-generation photonic systems.
  
  

Design & Engineering:

• Conduct simulation studies to model optical performance, signal integrity, and overall system behavior.
• Design photonic devices with a focus on improving efficiency, performance, and scalability.
• Implement innovative techniques for the integration of photonic and electronic systems.
  
  

Fabrication & Validation:

• Guide the fabrication of photonic devices, ensuring alignment with design specifications.
• Execute experimental validation, leveraging characterization tools to test and refine device performance.
• Develop robust methodologies for device optimization and troubleshooting during the prototyping phase.
  
  

Collaboration & Leadership:

• Mentor and guide research teams, fostering a collaborative environment focused on innovation and technical excellence.
• Partner with academic institutions, industry leaders, and cross-functional teams to advance photonics research.
• Provide project leadership and technical direction for cross-disciplinary innovation programs.
  
  

Knowledge Dissemination:

• Author technical publications and white papers to share research findings and establish thought leadership in photonics.
• Present research results at conferences, symposiums, and internal strategy meetings.
• Contribute to Natcast’s intellectual property portfolio by innovating and securing patents in integrated photonics.
  
  

Required Skills And Experience

• Ph.D. in Photonics, Physics, Electrical Engineering, or a related field.
• 5+ years of experience in integrated photonics research, design, or development.
• Expertise in photonic circuit design, waveguide modeling, and modulator development.
• Strong background in optics and photonics principles, including light propagation and interaction.
• Knowledge of semiconductor fabrication processes, including cleanroom techniques.
• Proficiency in simulation tools (e.g., Lumerical, COMSOL, or similar software) for photonic device modeling.
• Experience with characterization tools for photonic device testing, such as optical spectrum analyzers and interferometers.
• Proven track record of publishing research in peer-reviewed journals or presenting at conferences.
• Demonstrated project leadership and problem-solving abilities in a research or development environment.
• Strong analytical and critical thinking skills.
  
  

Bonus Qualifications

• Industry experience in photonics, particularly in the design and fabrication of commercial devices.
• Established patent portfolio demonstrating contributions to integrated photonics innovation.
• Expertise in silicon photonics and its applications in data centers or optical interconnects.
• Knowledge of quantum photonics and emerging quantum information technologies.
• Experience working in cleanroom environments, including hands-on fabrication and process optimization.
  
  

Ready to revolutionize integrated photonics technology? Join our mission-driven team and develop the solutions that will power next-generation communication and sensing systems.

Natcast is an equal opportunity employer. We do not discriminate based on race, color, religion, gender, gender expression, age, national origin, disability, marital status, sexual orientation, military status, or any protected attribute. We encourage qualified candidates from all backgrounds to apply and join us in our mission. If you require accommodation at any stage of the application process due to a disability, please let us know.

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