High-performance SiN photonic platforms for the future

Imec is building new, high-performance silicon nitride photonics platforms to meet the demands of next-generation applications such as quantum computing, all-optical computing, high-performance quantum sensing, medical technology, and more. Key to these applications is the availability of high-performance photonic components that make every photon count.

This PhD project will contribute to the evolution of such a platform by focusing on three key areas of improvement: ultra-low-loss edge-couplers, polarization diverse circuits, and high power photonics. To achieve significant advances, the candidate will apply and refine the latest design tools such as inverse design and generative AI. The candidate will also utilize statistical methods and knowledge of process technologies to ensure that the devices are not only high-performing in idealized prototypes, but also robust and process tolerant for scalable manufacturing.

The candidate will work in close collaboration with imec’s multidisciplinary teams, gaining access to world-class fabrication facilities and design infrastructure. This is a unique opportunity to contribute to the foundational technologies that will shape the future of photonic computing and quantum information systems.

Candidate profile:

We are looking for a proactive PhD candidate who is interested in advancing the state-of-the art in photonic platform capabilities. The ideal candidate has:

• Knowledge of integrated photonics
• Knowledge of modern fabrication techniques for integrated circuits
• Good programming and data analytics skills