Integrated Photonics Design R&D Engineers 

At imec, we are developing several new photonics platforms, and you will have the opportunity to put your mark on them. You will play a key role in advancing and expanding imec’s photonics technologies to support a broad spectrum of applications. The role is focused on the design of new components for the platform, layout of test structures and circuits, and planning and following up on large scale characterization of devices and circuits as they come out of imec’s state-of-the-art 200mm and 300mm pilot lines. The role will also take part in analysing and visualizing the data and to track device performance from die-to-die, wafer-to-wafer and lot-to-lot. Such statistical performance information is crucial for customers using imec’s platforms to design robust circuits, and also for monitoring and fine tuning the fabrication processes. To ensure quality in all stages, you will collaborate closely with internal teams and external partners. As such, this role requires a combination of technical expertise and excellent communication skills.  

What you will do

• Designing, simulating, and laying out photonic components and circuits. 
• Setting up design of experiments and analyzing test data. 
• Translating customer requirements into system concepts and PIC architectures. 
• Improving existing photonic platforms and contributing to the development of new ones. 
• Planning and following up on large-scale characterization of devices and circuits. 
• Analyzing and visualizing performance data across wafers and lots. 
• Collaborating closely with internal cross-functional teams and external partners. 
• Promoting knowledge sharing and improving design workflows and documentation. 

What we do for you

We offer you the opportunity to join one of the world’s premier research centers in nanotechnology at its headquarters in Leuven, Belgium. With your talent, passion and expertise, you’ll become part of a team that makes the impossible possible. Together, we shape the technology that will determine the society of tomorrow.

We are committed to being an inclusive employer and proud of our open, multicultural, and informal working environment with ample possibilities to take initiative and show responsibility. We commit to supporting and guiding you in this process; not only with words but also with tangible actions. Through imec.academy, 'our corporate university', we actively invest in your development to further your technical and personal growth. 

We are aware that your valuable contribution makes imec a top player in its field. Your energy and commitment are therefore appreciated by means of a market appropriate salary with many fringe benefits. 

Who you are

We are looking for strong team players who are results-driven and eager to continuously improve.

You should have: 

• A PhD or equivalent in Photonics, Physics, Electrical Engineering or related field with at least 2 years of experience in silicon photonic design. 
• In-depth knowledge of integrated photonics and experience in design, optimization, layout, and characterization of photonic components and circuits. 
• Hands-on experience with photonic design tools (e.g., Lumerical, Luceda IPKISS, Cadence, L-edit). 
• Good programming skills; Python experience is a strong plus. 
• Familiarity with experimental setups and characterization methods for PICs. 
• A good understanding of CMOS and silicon photonics fabrication techniques is a plus. 
• Excellent communication skills in English and the ability to work in a multidisciplinary, international environment. 
• Strong organizational skills and the ability to manage time effectively according to project schedules. 

We seek a candidate who thrives in a dynamic work environment, showcasing an adaptability to diverse projects or research topics. You’ll be a key team player, ready to support colleagues and tackle impactful projects within the timelines of our trusted global partners. 

IMEC and its affiliates will not accept unsolicited resumes from any source other than directly from a candidate. IMEC will consider unsolicited referrals and/or resumes submitted by vendors such as search firms, staffing agencies, professional recruiters, fee-based referral services and recruiting agencies (hereafter “Agency”) to have been referred by the Agency free of charge. IMEC will not pay a fee to any Agency that does not have a prior written agreement with IMEC, validated by its HR department, in place regarding a specific job opening and allowing to submit resumes.