PHI Lab Intern - Integrated Nonlinear Photonics

NTT Research Inc.; Sunnyvale (CA); On-site; USD 27,552 - 48,216; Full time

Job summary

A cutting-edge technology firm located in Sunnyvale, California, is seeking a PHI Lab Intern to engage in the design, modeling, and characterization of nonlinear photonic devices. The role emphasizes working collaboratively within a multidisciplinary team to develop innovative photonic components for various applications including sensing, communications, and computation. Candidates should have relevant coursework in Electrical Engineering, Applied Physics, or related fields, and familiarity with simulation tools such as Lumerical and COMSOL. This internship offers a unique opportunity to contribute to groundbreaking technologies.

Qualifications

• Coursework in a related field such as Electrical Engineering or Applied Physics.
• Proficiency in simulation tools like Lumerical and COMSOL.
• Experience with fiber optics and photonic device characterization.

Responsibilities

• Design and simulate integrated photonics using relevant tools.
• Develop layouts for nonlinear PICs.
• Conduct experimental characterization of photonic devices.

Skills

Simulation tools (e.g., Lumerical, COMSOL, Python/Matlab)

Optical lab setups

Fiber optics

Photonic device characterization

Analytical and problem-solving skills

Excellent communication

Education

Coursework in Electrical Engineering, Applied Physics, Optics, or a related field

Tools

Lumerical

COMSOL

Tidy3D

Job description

PHI Lab Intern - Integrated Nonlinear Photonics

PHI Lab

Posted on 12 Dec, 2025

No skill added

Engineering role focused on design, modeling, fabrication, and characterization of cutting‑edge nonlinear photonic devices that enable compact, low‑power, and high‑performance photonic microsystems. These devices are targeted towards broad application spaces, including sensing, communications, and computation. We respect academic freedom and always welcome innovative ideas.

NTT Research Inc. is a leader in cutting‑edge photonic technologies, driving innovation in telecommunications, optical computing, nonlinear optics, and quantum hardware. Our team is composed of world‑class scientists and engineers developing next‑generation optical systems; we aim to push the envelope at every level, from precision fabrication to system‑scale design.

As a photonics engineer, you will be responsible for designing, modeling, and characterizing integrated photonic devices and systems. You will work closely with a multidisciplinary team to develop and implement innovative photonic components that leverage nonlinear effects to generate, and control, broadband optical signals.

Responsibilities

• Design and simulate integrated photonics using tools such as Lumerical, COMSOL, Tidy3D, or similar.
• Develop fabrication‑ready layouts for tape‑outs of nonlinear PICs.
• Conduct experimental characterization of nonlinear photonic devices, including setting up and running optical test benches.
• Analyze experimental data and iterate designs for performance optimization.
• Document research findings, contribute to patents, and publish in peer‑reviewed journals or conferences.

Required Qualifications

• Exceptional candidates will be considered regardless of background.
• Coursework in Electrical Engineering, Applied Physics, Optics, or a related field.
• Proficiency in simulation tools (e.g., Lumerical, COMSOL, Python/Matlab).
• Experience with optical lab setups, fiber optics, modulators, and photonic device characterization.
• Familiarity with photonic material platforms (e.g., silicon/silicon nitride photonics, lithium niobate, chalcogenide, III‑V semiconductors).
• Strong analytical and problem‑solving skills.
• Excellent written and verbal communication.

Preferred Qualifications

• Background in nonlinear optics or integrated photonics.
• Experience with photonic chip design (GDSII layout, PDKs).
• Familiarity with hybrid photonic/electronic integration and packaging.
• Experience with microwave or radiofrequency electronics.
• Knowledge of quantum optics or ultrafast optics.
• Experience working with academic or industry foundries.