A leading global tech company is seeking a Principal Researcher - High-speed modulator concept to join its dedicated Silicon Photonics team based in Ghent, Belgium.The successful candidate will drive innovation within the silicon photonics platform by exploring and evaluating new modulator concepts. Responsibilities span the full design lifecycle-from opto-electronic and RF line design to defining test plans and interpreting experimental data.Key Responsibilities of the Principal Researcher - High-speed modulator concept
Concept Innovation: Introduce novel high-speed modulator concepts, encompassing both the intricate opto-electronic design and the precise design of their RF lines.
Topology Evaluation: Critically evaluate and compare different modulator topologies, including micro-ring modulators and Mach-Zehnder modulators (MZMs), to determine optimal solutions.
Material System Integration: Drive the introduction of new material systems into existing mass manufacturing platforms to significantly enhance performance towards 400G+ data rates.
Process Enhancement: Collaborate closely with process teams to optimize, enhance, or replace existing process modules specifically for high-speed modulators.
Design & Validation: Lead the design and validation of advanced photonic components, subsystems, and circuits.
Test & Analysis: Define comprehensive test plans and conduct in-depth analysis of experimental data during the research and development (R&D) phase.
Cross-Functional Collaboration: Work seamlessly with internal component/module teams and test teams to ensure successful project execution and integration.
Integrated optics & silicon photonics - RF line design & simulationPhotonic component modelling and validationEducation:Ph.D. in Photonics, Electrical Engineering, Physics, or a closely related field, coupled with at least 3 years of relevant work experience.M.S. in Photonics, Electrical Engineering, Physics, or a closely related field, with a minimum of 6 years of relevant work experience.Experience:In-depth knowledge of integrated optics and silicon photonics devices and process flow.Proven hands-on experience in the design and test of photonic components in silicon photonics or III/V materials.Demonstrated track record of successful (project) management in high-speed modulator development.Expert-level hands-on experience with photonics modeling tools such as Lumerical, Photon Design, COMSOL, etc.Expert-level hands-on experience with RF modeling tools like CST, HFSS, ADS, COMSOL, etc.Hands-on experience with process modeling tools such as Sentaurus, Silvaco, etc.Hands-on experience with layout tools (e.g., Tanner L-Edit, Luceda Ipkiss).Experience with the RF characterization of high-speed components is a significant advantage.Proficiency in Python for scripting, data analysis, or automation is a strong advantage.Experience working in a Linux environment is an advantage.Language:Fluent in English (written and spoken).Attitude & Skills:A strong team player with excellent interpersonal skills.Exceptional written and oral communication skills.Demonstrated creativity in problem-solving and a proactive approach.Commitment to continuous improvement and learning.Our client is a cutting-edge R&D company specializing in Photonics Integrated Circuit (PIC) design, with a strong focus on silicon-based transceiver circuits.Our mission is to push the boundaries of optical communication through:
Broad process knowledge
Simulation-driven concept engineering
Mass-improvement of proprietary designs
Competitive salary with relocation package and visa sponsorship
Work in a cutting-edge R&D environment with a focus on long-term innovation
Be part of a globally recognized team working on advanced photonic integration
Role based in Ghent, Belgium, with potential flexibility for other European locations
