Join Our Team at Lightium
Do you envision yourself designing the photonic engines that will power the next generation of communication and quantum systems? At Lightium, we are pioneers in developing advanced photonic integrated circuits (PICs) utilizing thin-film lithium niobate (TFLN). As we expand our platform with integrated III-V active devices, we invite you to join us as a PIC Design Engineer.
Position Summary
We are seeking a PIC Designer with extensive expertise in modeling and designing active photonic components, particularly those based on III-V materials, such as lasers, semiconductor optical amplifiers (SOAs), and photodetectors. In this role, you will be responsible for leading the simulation, design, and optimization of these devices, creating compact models for our process design kit (PDK), and facilitating the integration of these components into complete photonic circuits. Your contributions will be instrumental in shaping the active device layer of our hybrid TFLN platform.
Key Responsibilities
- Active Device Design: Design and optimize III-V-based layer stacks for lasers, SOAs, and photodetectors using FEM, FDTD, and semiconductor modeling tools. You will simulate optical, electrical, and thermal performance to guide layer stack design, device layout, and fabrication.
- Hybrid Integration: Collaborate in the co-design of TFLN passive circuits and III-V active regions, ensuring alignment between optical mode matching, coupling strategies, and process constraints.
- PDK Modeling: Develop compact physical and behavioral models of active devices for system-level simulations and integrate them into our PDK using tools such as GDS Factory, Luceda Photonics - IPKISS, Nazca, or Synopsys.
- Circuit Integration: Provide support for circuit-level layout and simulation of PICs, incorporating both passive and active components, and contribute to the co-simulation of optical and RF behavior at the circuit level.
- Collaboration: Work closely with fabrication, characterization, and packaging teams to validate designs, support testing plans, and iterate on performance improvements.
- Technical Expertise: Stay informed about advancements in III-V integration, hybrid bonding, and active PIC packaging, continually applying new knowledge to enhance Lightium’s platform.
- Documentation: Maintain thorough records of device designs, simulation parameters, and integration strategies.
- Customer & Project Support: Occasionally assist with customer designs or public-funded R&D projects by contributing your technical expertise and simulation insights.
What Our Ideal Candidate Brings
- Education & Experience: A PhD in III-V design or over 3 years of relevant work experience, particularly in photonics simulation (e.g., COMSOL or Lumerical) and bandgap simulation (e.g., Silvaco, Photon Design, Ansys Semiconductor). Experience in the PIC industry is highly advantageous.
- Additional Knowledge: Proficient in RF high-speed (UTC detectors) and RF simulation tools (HFSS, CST). Experience with micro-transfer printing, coupon or tether design, photonic characterization, and microfabrication.
- Problem Solving & Proactiveness: Strong analytical skills with the ability to model and improve complex multi-physics systems. Initiative to identify and tackle challenges independently.
- Adaptability: Ability to thrive in a fast-paced startup environment, showcasing flexibility and resilience in the face of change.
- Communication Skills: A collaborative approach with the ability to convey technical information clearly to diverse teams. Fluency in English is required.
What We Offer
- A unique opportunity to lead a groundbreaking manufacturing initiative in the rapidly expanding field of photonics.
- A collaborative and innovative work environment where your contributions will shape the future of telecommunications, datacom, and more.
- A competitive compensation and benefits package, including an employee stock option plan (ESOP) that reflects your experience and expertise.
- The chance to play an integral role in an early-phase startup, joining a motivated and energetic team where you can develop your professional skills at an accelerated pace.
We encourage you to apply online using the form below. Please note that only applications matching the job profile will be considered.
Lightium is an equal opportunity employer. We celebrate diversity and are committed to creating an inclusive environment for all employees.