Senior Laser R&D Scientist: Prototyping & IP

IPG Photonics; Marlborough (MA); On-site; USD 140,000 - 200,000; Full time

Job summary

IPG Photonics, a Marlborough-based leader in fiber lasers and amplifiers, seeks a Laser Scientist to lead end-to-end R&D of advanced laser prototypes. You will translate first-principles models into breadboard designs, characterize systems, and drive transfer to production.

The role focuses on advancing state-of-the-art laser technology for real-world applications, requiring strong expertise in nonlinear optics, laser physics, and optical spectroscopy, with a track record of high-impact research.

Qualifications

• PhD in Science or Engineering (Physics preferred).
• 10+ years’ experience with lasers, optics, imaging systems.
• Knowledge of laser physics, condensed matter physics and optical spectroscopy.
• Deep expertise in nonlinear optics and frequency conversion, including DUV/VUV.
• Experience with vacuum systems, contamination control and UV-grade materials.
• Experience in numerical modeling of lasers and optical systems.

Responsibilities

• Act as the subject-matter expert in laser development projects.
• Design, development and characterization of laser prototypes.
• Develop laser test methodologies and automation.
• Lead optical design of laser sub-systems.
• Model complex systems including gain, nonlinear efficiency, thermal lensing, pointing and noise.
• Advance materials and component characterization.
• Generate IP and technical communication.

Skills

Laser physics

Nonlinear optics

Optical spectroscopy

Numerical modeling

Vacuum systems

Materials characterization

Education

PhD in Science or Engineering (Physics preferred)

Job description

IPG Photonics, a Marlborough-based leader in fiber lasers and amplifiers, seeks a Laser Scientist to lead end-to-end R&D of advanced laser prototypes. You will translate first-principles models into breadboard designs, characterize systems, and drive transfer to production.

The role focuses on advancing state-of-the-art laser technology for real-world applications, requiring strong expertise in nonlinear optics, laser physics, and optical spectroscopy, with a track record of high-impact research.