Senior R&D Scientist

SMART Photonics is at the forefront of integrated photonics, bringing together scientists, engineers, and industry experts to develop next-generation photonic technologies.

Our R&D team contributes to more than 30 EU-funded projects and works closely with leading universities, research institutes, industry partners, and customers.

As a Senior R&D Scientist, you will play a key role in developing and industrializing advanced photonic technologies, from scientific concept through device development, qualification, and integration into the SMART Photonics platform.

Your Role and Tasks

• Lead the development and improvement of integrated photonic devices, building blocks, and technologies, including heterogeneous integration solutions.
• Develop and apply device models, simulations, and Design of Experiments (DoE) to optimize and qualify photonic devices and processes.
• Translate scientific and customer requirements into innovative, manufacturable, and high-quality device solutions suitable for the SMART Photonics platform and PDK.
• Act as a senior technical interface for customers, universities, research institutes, and industry partners, challenging requirements and assessing technical feasibility.
• Independently lead complex R&D projects, defining technical objectives, research plans, milestones, and deliverables.
• Guide and mentor junior scientists and engineers and contribute to the technical direction of the R&D team.
• Contribute to publications, patents, EU project deliverables, and continuous improvement activities such as 8D and FMEA.
• PhD in Integrated Photonics, Photonics, Physics, Electrical Engineering, or a closely related field.
• At least +5 years of relevant industrial experience after completing your PhD, preferably in a semiconductor, photonics, or technology-development environment.
• Strong expertise in integrated photonics, device physics, optical devices, and semiconductor technologies.
• Experience with device modelling, simulation, experimental development, and/or device qualification.
• Strong affinity with semiconductor fabrication and III-V technologies, particularly InP, GaAs, or related materials.
• Excellent analytical, creative, communication, and presentation skills, with the ability to represent SMART Photonics externally.
• A strong growth mindset, independent drive, and sense of ownership, combined with the ability to collaborate and guide others in a dynamic environment.

What We Offer

• A challenging senior position with significant technical and scientific impact.
• The opportunity to work on state-of-the-art integrated photonics and heterogeneous integration technologies.
• Direct exposure to advanced InP semiconductor technology and its industrial application.
• Collaboration with leading international research institutes, universities, industry partners, and customers through EU-funded projects.
• A talented, diverse, and international R&D team within a growing and innovative company.
• Personalized career development, including training and coaching.
• A collaborative open culture with additional benefits including fitness discounts, fresh fruit, chair massages, and Lunch Walks.