Photonics Characterization Intern

Lightmatter is looking for a PhD candidate who can work in Photonics Characterization (Electrical Engineering, Physics, or related field) starting immediately with a strong understanding of Silicon Photonics and demonstrated experience in electro-optic testing of components like micro-rings and Mach-Zehnder interferometers. The ideal candidate will leverage hands-on laboratory experience with various optical and semiconductor test equipment, and be skilled in developing and implementing automated testing using Python scripting. This highly analytical, process-oriented individual must be capable of working independently to solve complex technical problems and translate data into actionable strategies. ## Responsibilities - Participate in electro-optic testing of photonics chips/devices, leveraging hands-on laboratory experience and working with various optical instruments. - Conduct tests and characterization of silicon photonics components, including micro-rings, optical phase shifters, and Mach-Zehnder interferometers. - Operate a range of optical equipment such as lasers, electro-optic modulators, semiconductor optical amplifiers, PIN receivers, optical spectrum analyzers, optical vector analyzers, and optical filters. - Utilize semiconductor test equipment, including vector network analyzers, spectrum analyzers, source-meter units, arbitrary waveform generators, and high-speed oscilloscopes. - Design and execute testing protocols for silicon photonics chips and subsystems. - Develop and implement automated testing and system interfacing through Python scripting. ## Qualifications - Recent PhD graduate OR PhD candidate in Photonics with a strong understanding of Silicon Photonics and demonstrated experience in electro-optic component testing. - Experienced in developing and implementing automated testing systems using Python scripting, with a proven ability to translate data into actionable strategies. - Highly analytical, process-oriented, and capable of working independently to solve complex, non-obvious technical problems in a lab environment. - Excellent written and verbal communication skills. ## Preferred Qualifications - Microcontroller programming - Experience with high speed instruments - High speed communications and understanding of VNA and optical link - Understanding of high speed PCBs and/or micro electronics - Experience working in a graduate level photonics or electrical engineering lab. - Willingness and curiosity to learn from an exciting team!