Scientist, Optical Technologies and Flat Optics, IMRE

A*STAR RESEARCH ENTITIES; Singapore; On-site; SGD 180,000 - 280,000; Full time

Job summary

A*STAR RESEARCH ENTITIES in Singapore seeks a Principal Scientist to lead the development of next-generation optoelectronic devices based on flat optical technologies, such as metasurfaces and metalenses.

You will drive research directions, translate ideas into prototypes and system-level integrations, and manage multidisciplinary teams across design, fabrication and characterization while building collaborations with universities, institutes and industry.

Qualifications

• PhD in Physics, Electrical Engineering, Photonics, or closely related field.
• Proven track record leading research programs and delivering complex projects.
• Experience in nanophotonics, flat optics (metasurfaces/metalenses), and optoelectronic devices.
• Strong leadership with mentoring and collaboration across disciplines.

Responsibilities

• Define and drive research directions for flat optics–enabled optoelectronic devices.
• Generate innovative concepts and lead translation from theory to prototype and system-level integration.
• Lead and manage multidisciplinary teams spanning design, fabrication, and optical characterization.
• Oversee end-to-end project execution, including planning, resource allocation, risk management, and milestones.
• Establish and lead collaborations with universities, research institutes, and industry partners to co-develop technologies.
• Identify and pursue funding opportunities, including competitive grants and industry partnerships.
• Drive IP creation and high-impact publications.
• Mentor junior scientists and engineers, fostering a strong innovation culture.

Skills

Leadership

Cross-functional collaboration

Mentoring

Stakeholder management

Strategic thinking

Project management

Education

PhD in Physics, Electrical Engineering, Photonics, or closely related field

Job description

We are seeking an accomplished and visionary Principal Scientist to lead the development of the next generation of optoelectronic devices based on flat optical technologies (e.g., metasurfaces and metalenses). This role combines scientific leadership, strategic innovation, and cross-functional collaboration to translate advanced nanophotonic concepts into impactful technologies and applications.

Long Description

Key Responsibilities

• Define and drive research directions for flat optics–enabled optoelectronic devices.
• Generate innovative concepts and lead their translation from theory to prototype and system-level integration.
• Lead and manage multidisciplinary teams spanning design, simulation, fabrication, and optical characterization.
• Oversee end-to-end project execution, including planning, resource allocation, risk management, and delivery of milestones.
• Establish and lead collaborations with universities, research institutes, and industry partners to co-develop new technologies and solutions.
• Identify and pursue funding opportunities, including competitive grants and industry partnerships.
• Drive intellectual property (IP) creation and high-impact publications.
• Mentor junior scientists and engineers, fostering a strong innovation culture.

Qualifications & Requirements

• PhD in Physics, Electrical Engineering, Photonics, or a closely related field.
• Extensive experience in nanophotonics, flat optics (metasurfaces/metalenses), and optoelectronic devices.
• Proven track record of leading research programs and delivering complex projects.
• Demonstrated ability to initiate ideas and translate them into tangible outcomes (prototypes, IP, or products).
• Strong experience working across design, fabrication, and characterization domains.
• Established network and experience in academic and industry collaboration.
• Strong leadership, communication, and stakeholder management skills.

Preferred Qualifications

• Experience in scaling technologies from lab to real-world applications.
• Track record of securing research funding and managing large grants.
• Experience supervising and developing high-performing research teams.
• Strong publication and patent portfolio in relevant fields.

The above eligibility criteria are not exhaustive. A*STAR may include additional selection criteria based on its prevailing recruitment policies. These policies may be amended from time to time without notice. We regret that only shortlisted candidates will be notified.