Lead Research Engineer, (Optoelectronics integration), QInC

A*STAR - Agency for Science, Technology and Research; Singapore; On-site; SGD 60,000 - 90,000; Full time

Job summary

A*STAR - Agency for Science, Technology and Research in Singapore seeks a talented Research Engineer for its Quantum Innovation Center. The role involves designing and prototyping quantum devices for practical applications, leading vendor relationships, and executing complex experimental setups. Candidates should have an MSc or PhD in engineering science and a minimum of 5 years of relevant experience, particularly in opto-electronic devices. This role offers the chance to contribute to pioneering technology in a transformative field.

Qualifications

• 5+ years of relevant experience in the field.
• Proven hands-on experience in designing, building, and testing opto-electronic devices.
• Understanding of system engineering and product development cycles.

Responsibilities

• Design opto-electronic devices and simulate performance.
• Lead development of device demonstrators and prototypes.
• Build and validate custom characterization laboratory workstations.

Skills

Hands-on experience in designing opto-electronic devices

Complex experiment planning and execution

Optical, mechanical, and thermal simulation software

Experience with experiment automation and DAQ

Critical thinking and problem-solving

Education

MSc or PhD in engineering science

Tools

Zemax

Ansys

Python

Labview

Job description

Quantum Innovation Center (Q.INC) at A*STAR is focused on developing quantum devices for practical use. These devices form the backbone of the upcoming quantum economy and will have transformative impact on modern life.

We are looking for a talented, experimental‑minded Research Engineer to join the technology translation team. You will play an integral role in designing, prototyping, fabricating, and characterizing the next generation of quantum devices and overseeing their deployment in real‑world applications. This is an opportunity to contribute to foundational early work that will eventually be turned into a commercially viable product. You will be the key to interfacing with vendors and internal teams, leading device prototyping, validation, and deployment, as well as implementing a long‑term technology strategy focused on delivering a practical, commercially viable solution that addresses customers’ needs.

Responsibilities

• Design opto‑electronic devices and simulate performance (optical, thermal, mechanical, electrical) focusing on meeting performance and SWAP‑C targets.
• Lead development of device demonstrators and prototypes, establishing and managing vendor relationships to ensure timely delivery and adherence to specifications.
• Build custom characterization laboratory‑based workstations, design and execute validation experiments with strong attention to detail.
• Design and oversee device characterization under environmental conditions, understanding performance, capturing failure modes, and providing actionable feedback.
• Keep detailed records of experimental work, prepare reports, file invention disclosures, and updates for key stakeholders.
• Contribute to strengthening horizontal relations with respective internal and external partners.

Job Requirements

• MSc or PhD in engineering science (applied physics, electronic engineering, optical engineering, laser physics, or closely related) with minimum 5 years of relevant experience.
• Proven hands‑on experience in designing, building, and testing opto‑electronic devices and systems, with clear prototype/product demonstrators, preferably within an industrial environment.
• Understanding of principles of system engineering, product development cycles, and trade‑off analysis.
• Demonstrated ability to independently plan and execute complex experiments while providing critical analysis and suggesting actionable improvement measures.
• Strong hands‑on experience with optical, mechanical, and thermal simulation software (Zemax, Ansys, etc.) as well as with experiment automation and DAQ (Python, Labview, etc.). Some familiarity with electronics is strongly beneficial.
• Advanced knowledge of optoelectronic componentry (lasers, detectors, optics, etc.) and the relevant suppliers/service providers.
• Ability to express independent judgment and critical thinking while working harmoniously and constructively contributing to the team’s common goal.
• Practical mindset oriented towards product development with a strong focus on impact for end users.
• Some level of exposure to quantum technology is desirable, but not a must.