Lead PIC Design & Photonics Research for AI Compute

University of Southern California; Los Angeles (CA); On-site; USD 75,000 - 85,000; Full time

Job summary

The University of Southern California invites a highly qualified researcher to lead photonic integrated circuit design and simulation, advancing silicon photonics for AI-enabled computing. You will work with a dynamic team on end-to-end prototyping and validation of cutting-edge photonic hardware.

Collaborations span interdisciplinary teams and external partners, with opportunities to publish and contribute to IP while shaping future computing platforms.

Qualifications

• PhD in Electrical Engineering, Physics, Photonics, or closely related field.
• Strong background in Integrated Photonics with PIC design, layout, and tapeout in commercial foundries.
• Proficiency with photonic design and simulation tools (Lumerical, IPKISS, Ansys, KLayout).
• Hands-on experience in device fabrication, testing, and characterization (probe stations, tunable lasers, optical spectrum analyzers).
• Familiarity with materials such as Si, SiN, AlN, BaTiO, or 2D materials is a plus.
• Strong publication record and excellent communication skills.
• Ability to work independently and collaboratively in a multidisciplinary research environment.

Responsibilities

• Lead PIC design and simulation using industry-standard tools.
• Contribute to novel photonic computing architectures including optical in-memory and neuromorphic approaches.
• Coordinate tapeout and fabrication of silicon photonic devices with foundries.
• Characterize fabricated devices using optical and electrical test setups.
• Collaborate with interdisciplinary teams and external partners for prototyping and validation.
• Contribute to publications, technical reports, and IP development.

Skills

PIC design

Layout

Tapeout

Photonic design tools

Device testing

Education

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

Tools

Lumerical

IPKISS

Ansys

KLayout

Job description

The University of Southern California invites a highly qualified researcher to lead photonic integrated circuit design and simulation, advancing silicon photonics for AI-enabled computing. You will work with a dynamic team on end-to-end prototyping and validation of cutting-edge photonic hardware.

Collaborations span interdisciplinary teams and external partners, with opportunities to publish and contribute to IP while shaping future computing platforms.