Research Associate (Limited Term) (6 Month Term)

University of Toronto; Toronto; On-site; CAD 52,000 - 99,000; Full time

Job summary

The University of Toronto is seeking a dedicated Research Associate in Photonics to join a renowned department. This full-time, 6-month position focuses on advanced research at the intersection of AI and integrated photonics, involving mentorship of students and significant contributions to the field. Successful candidates will have a PhD, extensive experience in silicon integrated photonics, and a strong commitment to mentorship and inclusive practices.

Qualifications

• PhD in a relevant field required.
• 3+ years experience in silicon integrated photonics and photonic foundries.
• Proven results-driven attitude and strong communication skills.

Responsibilities

• Conduct research on AI and integrated photonics.
• Train students on photonic integrated circuit design.
• Publish findings in conferences and journals.

Skills

Communication

Mentorship

Research

Integrated Photonics

AI

Education

PhD in Electrical Engineering or Applied Physics

Tools

Optical and electronic instruments

Job description

Date Posted: 06/23/2025
Req ID: 43778
Faculty/Division: Faculty of Applied Science & Engineering
Department: Department of Electrical & Computer Engineering
Campus: St. George (Downtown Toronto)

Description:

The Edward S. Rogers Sr. Department of Electrical & Computer Engineering is Canada’s top-ranked ECE department, and one of the largest. We are home to 100 active and Emeritus professors, more than 1,400 undergraduate and 800 graduate students. Many of our faculty members are world leaders in their field and have been recognized as the brightest and most promising scientists and engineers across the country.

ECE is a hotbed of research commercialization, by far the most productive department for new inventions at the University of Toronto. In our department, you will work at the heart of the most rapidly developing technology humankind has ever seen.

Applications are invited for appointment asResearch Associate in Photonics in the Department of Electrical and Computer Engineering, Faculty of Applied Science and Engineering, at the University of Toronto. This is a full-time position for a 6 month term for a research associate to work with Prof. Joyce Poon and her research group to conduct research at the intersection of AI and integrated photonics.

The successful candidate will have a successful record in working in integrated photonics (e.g., simulation and design, layout, characterization) and strong interest or experience in AI. The candidate will be responsible for (1) Developing models of and measuring active and amplifying integrated photonic components, (2) Characterization of multi-wavelength silicon photonic circuits, (3) Intelligent automation photonic experiments, and (4) Providing support to and training junior research group members.

The candidate should have extensive experience in (a) integrated photonics design, testing, and packaging, (b) using a broad range of optical and electronic instruments in the lab, including but not limited to various diode laser sources, fiber coupling, electronic and RF components and instruments, data acquisition units; (c) providing research support and mentorship to students and postdoctoral fellows . The successful candidate will report to Prof. Joyce Poon.

Duties:

• Conduct research at the intersection of integrated photonics and AI for advanced automation
• Train students and postdoctoral fellows on photonic integrated circuit design and measurements
• Stay up-to-date with relevant literature and emerging research trends
• Provide project support and mentoring for research team members
• Develop and execute research vision with PI to achieve research goals
• The research associate is expected to publish at conferences and in journals

Qualifications:

• PhD in a relevant field (e.g., Electrical Engineering, Applied Physics)
• Minimum of three (3) years of experience with demonstrated expertise in silicon integrated photonics
• Minimum of three (3) years of experience in working with photonic foundries
• Experience with semiconductor optical amplifiers
• Have a results-driven attitude – no task too big or too small
• Excellent written and verbal communication skills
• Demonstrated commitment to equity, diversity, inclusion and the promotion of a respectful and collegial learning and work environment.

Required Documents:

Candidates are requested to submit a comprehensive cover letter that summarizes the research experience of the applicant and a CV.

Notes:

This is a 6-month term position, with a 100% FTE appointment. The term may be extended pending on available funding and performance.

Closing Date:07/22/2025,11:59PM ET
Employee Group: Research Associate
Appointment Type: Grant - Term
Schedule: Full-Time
Pay Scale Group & Hiring Zone:R01 -- Research Associates (Limited Term): $52,574 - $98,576
Job Category: Engineering / Technical