Post-Doctoral Researcher - High Speed Photonics Devices Characterization

Cork, Munster, Ireland
Full Time
Packaging & Integration
Experienced
Post-Doctoral Researcher - High Speed Photonics Devices Characterization
Contract: Full Time/Fixed Term


Tyndall National Institute at University College Cork is seeking a highly motivated post-doctoral researcher to join an exciting, recently funded project focused on developing high-speed electro-absorption modulated laser (EML) devices. As part of the Photonics Centre team, you will contribute to the commercialization of an innovative, cost-effective method for producing high-speed EML chips. This technology aims to address the growing market demand for 400G, 800G, and faster optical network upgrades, with the global optical transceiver market projected to exceed $15 billion within the next five years.

Our goal is to bring this breakthrough technology to optical module manufacturers, enabling the production of faster, more efficient transceivers that deliver enhanced performance and profitability. To achieve this, we plan to establish a Tyndall start-up company, set to launch in mid-2026.

Key Roles Description
An essential part of your role will be testing the devices and providing detailed characterization reports to the Principal Investigator (PI). In Stage 1, you will characterize the devices fabricated by the team to establish device specifications and finalize the current technology. Following this, you will characterize devices produced by the foundry to verify the quality of their fabrication. And the candidate will contribute to the design and simulation of the photonic devices and will aid in the computer aided mask designs.
In Stage 2, you will take a leading role in coordinating with an external testing unit to conduct reliability testing. Additionally, you will work closely with the commercial lead to provide performance data and technical support to potential end users and customers. We anticipate that the successful candidate will play a key role in device characterization within the start-up company once it is established.

Key Responsibilities
  • Device Characterization: Conduct DC, RF, and reliability testing of the fabricated high-speed EML chips.
  • Device Specifications: Provide detailed device specifications and datasheets to the Principal Investigator (PI).
  • Foundry Collaboration: Engage with the foundry partner to provide feedback on fabrication quality.
  • Reliability Testing Support: Work with the external testing partner to champion comprehensive reliability testing.
  • Device design and simulation: use commercial software tools for device design and simulations.
  • Mask design: using internal software design tools to help with mask designs.
  • Participate in Education and Public Engagement activities, as required.
  • Ensure all activities are compliant with the Tyndall Quality Management system.
  • Ensure all activities are compliant with the required Health and Safety standards.
  • Carry out any additional duties as may be reasonably required within the general scope and level of the post.
Essential Criteria
  • Ph.D. in Photonics: A doctoral degree with a strong focus on photonics.
  • Characterization Experience: At least 2 years of experience in photonic device characterization.
  • Technical Proficiency: Skilled in using equipment such as Vector Network Analyzers (VNA), DC probe stations, and Optical Spectrum Analyzers (OSA).
  • Reliability Testing Experience: Hands-on experience with the reliability testing of photonic devices.
  • Automation of equipment: Experience in computer automation for photonic device characterization using LabVIEW or Python.
  • Photonic design and simulation: experience in the design and simulation of photonic devices.
  • Mask design: understanding of mask design for III-V photonic devices.
  • Entrepreneurial Interest: A genuine desire to contribute to the formation and growth of a start-up company.
  • Communication Skills: Excellent verbal and written communication abilities for effective partnership, reporting, and technical documentation.
Desirable Criteria
  • Evidence of entrepreneurial experience and creative skills/creativity
  • Foundry Collaboration: Experience in effectively engaging with foundry partners for process transfer and fabrication support.
  • Customer Engagement: Proven experience in engaging with customers, comprehending their needs, and providing technical support.
  • Industry Experience: Previous experience working in an industrial environment, particularly in a relevant field.

Informal enquiries can be made in confidence to Xing Dai.

Tyndall National institute has a proactive entrepreneurial culture and we welcome applications from candidates who possess entrepreneurial and creative skills/experience, including the creation of technology start-ups.

Appointment may be made on the Postdoctoral Scale €45,847- €52,339 pa. In all instances the successful appointment will be at the first point of the scale.

Closing date for application is 1pm on 16th May 2025

Application Instructions
Please make sure to attach an up-to-date CV/Resume AND a brief motivation letter outlining how you meet the ‘Essential Criteria’ for this role.


Please note that Garda vetting and/or an international police clearance check may form part of the selection process.

The University, at its discretion, may undertake to make an additional appointment(s) from this competition following the conclusion of the process.

Please note that an appointment to posts advertised will be dependent on University approval, together with the terms of the employment control framework for the higher education sector.

At this time, Tyndall National Institute does not require the assistance of recruitment agencies.
Tyndall National Institute at University College, Cork is an Equal Opportunities Employer.
 
 
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