Senior R&D Scientist - SOA Design

If you are passionate about Integrated photonics and have hands-on experience on designing, modelling, and validating active photonic components, this role offers the opportunity to shape the next generation of SMART Photonics’ Process Design Kit (PDK)!

About this role:

As our R&D Scientist, you will own the full development cycle of active devices, such as semiconductor optical amplifiers (SOA), distributed feedback laser diodes; with a strong focus on meeting performance targets, validating models, interacting with processing and measurement teams, generate device compact model, and integrate your device into our PDK.

You will collaborate closely with fellow researchers, process engineers, design enablement engineers, product managers, and characterization teams to ensure strong linkages between device performance, process capability and design tools.  

The position is within the Building Block Cluster, with currently 7 Scientists, and our new joiner will have to report to the Cluster Lead and Senior Scientist.

Your Responsibilities: 

• Develop, optimize, and document photonic devices, with primary focus on active devices, and their compact models for inclusion in SMART Photonics’ PDK. 

• Translate customer and application requirements into robust, manufacturable and well‑documented devices.

• Perform advanced simulations using Harold for design exploration and performance optimization. 

• Lead model validation by correlating simulation and measured data. 

• Analyse electrical and optical characterization data (including EOL PCM, inline PCM and dedicated test structures) to validate and calibrate device performance and models. 

• Apply structured DOE methodologies and use JMP or Minitab to extract trends, evaluate sensitivities, and guide design decisions. 

• Produce high‑quality documentation, i.e. design reports, simulation methodologies, validation summaries. 

• Own the definition and development of the devices and act as reference point for detailed insights of the devices. 

• Able to work independently and pro-actively on complex topics, reducing uncertainties and proposing clear next steps. 

• Collaborate in cross‑sectorial projects (process integration, characterization, design, product lines) to introduce new devices concepts and platform releases into production. 

What are we looking for?

• A PhD in Integrated Photonics, Applied Physics, Electrical Engineering, or related field; with industrial experience on SOA and laser diodes design. 

• In-depth knowledge of SOA device design and simulation - preferably using Harold.

• Strong understanding of integrated photonic device physics: waveguides, SOA, DFB, DBR, and routing strategies. 

• Experience in creating and validating compact models for PDKs is a plus. 

• Solid understanding of photonic design methodologies and design‑for‑manufacturability principles. 

• Proficiency in Python for simulation automation, data processing, and model extraction workflows. 

• Skilled in statistical analysis and DOE methods using JMP or Minitab. 

• Capable of working independently, assertive in technical discussions, and comfortable navigating ambiguity in early‑stage R&D. 

• Able to work effectively in cross‑functional teams and communicate clearly with colleagues from process, design, characterization and product management. 

• Strong documentation skills. 

• Creative, analytical, and proactive mindset with a natural drive to “get things done”!

We offer:

• Competitive salary, to be aligned with Recruiter on the first interview.

• A challenging and impactful role within a fast‑growing high‑tech environment.

• State‑of‑the‑art photonic technologies and advanced modelling tools.

• A highly passionate, international team of experts in photonics and semiconductor technology.

• Tailored learning and development opportunities: training, coaching, and on‑the‑job growth.