Principal Scientist II [Optics and Imaging Systems Group (OIS)], SIMTech

A*STAR RESEARCH ENTITIES; Singapore; On-site; SGD 120,000 - 180,000; Full time

Job summary

OIS Group seeks a senior/principal scientist to define, develop, and lead optics-based solutions for advanced semiconductor metrology and inspection challenges. The role includes translating requirements into novel optical architectures and delivering system-level outcomes through multidisciplinary collaboration.

The candidate will drive optics-led R&D, mentor teams, and work with industry partners to deliver proof-of-concept systems and applied results in semiconductor equipment manufacturing.

Qualifications

• PhD in Optics or Physics required.
• Hands-on experience designing and validating optical systems.
• Strong track record in leading R&D and securing funding.

Responsibilities

• Define optical concepts and architectures from requirements definition to solution delivery.
• Drive the development of novel optical systems for high-resolution metrology.
• Formulate scientific directions and competitive proposals to secure internal and external funding.
• Translate industry needs into practical optics-based research opportunities for semiconductor metrology.
• Collaborate with industry partners to deliver proof-of-concept systems and applied R&D outcomes.
• Mentor and grow optics and metrology capabilities across teams.

Skills

Optical system design

Laser technologies

Leadership in R&D

Fundraising / grant writing

Communication skills

Education

PhD in Optics

Tools

Optical design software

Laser systems

Job description

Job Description

The OIS Group is seeking a highly motivated and very experienced senior or principal scientist to define, develop, deliver and lead optics-based solutions for advanced semiconductor metrology and inspection challenges.

The candidate will play the key role in driving optics-led R&D, translating metrology requirements into novel optical architectures and delivering system-level solutions that address critical needs in semiconductor equipment manufacturing. The candidate will work closely with multidisciplinary teams (systems, algorithms and industry partners) to shape research directions and execute high-impact R&D in the following areas:

• Optical Metrology and Inspection for Semiconductor Manufacturing
• High-resolution Imaging Optics
• Multi-scale, Multi-spectral Imaging Systems
• Advanced Microscopy Techniques
• Novel Optical Architectures for Metrology

The key roles and responsibilities include, but are not limited to, the following:

• Define optical concepts and architectures to address semiconductor metrology and inspection problems from requirements definition to solution delivery
• Drive the development of novel optical systems for high-resolution metrology
• Formulate scientific research directions and competitive proposals to secure internal and external research funding
• Understand semiconductor equipment manufacturing challenges and translate industry needs into impactful optics-based research opportunities
• Work closely with industry partners to deliver proof-of-concept systems, demonstrators and applied R&D outcomes
• Contribute to the growth of optics and metrology capabilities through technical mentorship and cross-team collaboration

Job Requirements

• PhD degree in Optics, Physics or other relevant disciplines
• Candidates with strong fundamentals in optical system design and laser technologies, with hands‑on experience in developing and validating optical systems and at least 10 years' experience in research and leadership of R&D projects in the relevant area of expertise, preferably in semiconductor inspection, metrology, or related precision manufacturing domains
• Proven ability to attract significant levels of research funding
• Demonstrated ability to translate complex metrology problems into practical optical solutions
• Strong track record of scientific publications in highly cited journals and patents in relevant fields
• Experience working with industry partners and delivering applied R&D outcomes is expected
• Strong written and verbal communication skills, with the ability to engage technical peers, management, and external stakeholders
• Self-driven, adaptable, and proactive team player with the ability to work across disciplines