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