Photonics Design Expert
This isn’t just another R&D role. It’s a rare opportunity to drive next-generation PIC designs that power AI, 6G, telecom, sensing, and beyond. Your work will directly shape how light carries information across cutting-edge systems.
You’ll be joining a world-leading photonics center in Gent, already responsible for one-sixth of the global photonics component market. Now, the team is expanding into 6G photonics, optical DSP, photonic neural networks, and advanced 3D/4D imaging, and they need your PIC design expertise to lead the way.
What you’ll do:
As a PIC designer, you’ll take ownership of integrated photonic components and subsystems from concept to production:
- Lead PIC concept development, device design, and system integration for novel products
- Design and simulate silicon and III-V photonic devices using state-of-the-art tools (Photon Design, Lumerical, COMSOL, CST)
- Create and verify layouts using Luceda Ipkiss, Tanner L-Edit, or equivalent
- Define device specifications, test plans, and statistical validation protocols
- Architect PIC-based subsystems for AI accelerators, RF/mmWave photonics, 6G transceivers, and more
- Collaborate with global engineering teams to translate R&D designs into manufacturable products
- Contribute to research pipelines, publications, and conference presentations
- Engage with stakeholders to secure funding and resources for high-impact PIC initiatives
What you’ll bring:
- PhD in Photonics, EE, Physics, or related field, with 5+ years in industry PIC design
- Deep expertise in integrated optics, active/passive photonic devices, and optoelectronic integration
- Hands-on experience in designing, simulating, and testing silicon and III-V photonic devices
- Knowledge of PIC integration with RF ICs, EICs, or electronic-photonic subsystems
- Proven track record of leading PIC designs from concept to volume production
- Proficiency in:
- Modelling tools: Photon Design, Lumerical, COMSOL, CST
- Layout tools: Luceda Ipkiss, Tanner L-Edit
- Programming/scripting: Python, VPI, or similar (bonus)
- Strong communication skills with experience in funding proposals and cross-team collaboration
- Business-savvy mindset with a focus on customer-driven PIC solutions
Why you’ll love it here:
- Lead high-impact PIC projects with real-world applications in AI, telecom, and sensing
- Work in a well-funded, innovation-driven team at a global photonics hub
- Collaborate across multicultural, high-performance R&D teams
How to apply:
Send your CV or reach out to discuss this unique PIC design opportunity.
Darwin Recruitment is acting as an Employment Agency in relation to this vacancy.
Jack Kindell