Client Background & Position Overview
A leading global company in information and communications technology is seeking to strengthen its R&D capabilities in silicon photonics. Its Belgian research group is a recognized center of excellence in photonic device design and integration. Originally founded as a spin-off from University and Industry in 2010, the team has since grown into a key player in the company's international R&D network following its acquisition in 2013.
As one of the world’s largest users of photonic components, the company is heavily investing in next-generation silicon photonics technologies to fuel innovation across multiple domains—from telecom and datacom to sensing and beyond. The research team plays a central role in this effort, combining academic roots with industrial ambition in one of Europe’s most vibrant tech ecosystems.
Our client is seeking a Senior Photonics Engineer to join a world-class R&D team specializing in silicon photonics. This role focuses on the design, modeling, and validation of active photonic devices—such as lasers, modulators, and photodetectors—for next-generation optical systems. The position offers a unique opportunity to contribute to advanced photonic integrated circuits (PICs) for applications including high-speed transceivers, RF/mmWave photonics, and 3D sensing. Ideal candidates will have a strong background in integrated optics, hands-on experience with photonic design tools, and a passion for innovation in a collaborative, international environment.
Responsibilities
* Collaborate with a multidisciplinary team of photonic engineers and product designers focused on advancing cutting-edge silicon photonic devices and systems.
* Drive innovation by leading new development projects from early research stages through to new product introduction (NPI).
* Design, simulate, and model integrated photonic components and circuits for next-generation applications.
* Participate in and contribute to design reviews, ensuring that photonic designs align with performance and reliability requirements.
* Validate designs through structured test plans, statistical analysis, and performance benchmarking during the R&D phase.
* Help define new photonic integrated circuit (PIC) architectures and system-level concepts across diverse applications such as ultra-fast optical transceivers, RF/mmWave photonics, LiDAR/3D sensing, photonic neural networks, and inertial sensors.
* Collaborate closely with local fabrication and testing teams, as well as international module and component development teams.
* Stay up to date with the latest advancements in the field by conducting literature reviews and actively participating in relevant conferences.
Requirements & Qualifications:
* Strong background in integrated photonics and optoelectronic device design.
* Ph.D. in Photonics, Electrical Engineering, Physics, or a related discipline, with at least 2 years of experience in R&D or industry roles.
* Practical experience in the design, simulation, and testing of silicon photonic or III-V optoelectronic components.
* Familiarity with modeling and system-level simulation of PICs for applications such as optical communication, RF photonics, and sensing.
* Understanding of system-level integration with RFICs, CMOS drivers, lasers, modulators, and detectors.
* Demonstrated ability to manage projects and deliver results from concept to prototype.
* Prior involvement in feasibility studies and strategic market analysis is a plus.
* Proficiency with simulation and layout tools such as Photon Design, Lumerical, COMSOL, CST, Tanner L-Edit, and Luceda IPKISS.
* Experience with Python scripting and/or VPIphotonics is considered advantageous.
* Fluent in English, knowledge of Dutch or Chinese is a plus.
* Team-oriented, proactive, and innovative mindset with strong analytical and problem-solving capabilities.
If you are driven by curiosity and passionate about pushing the boundaries of photonic technologies, this is an opportunity to work in a dynamic, multicultural, and rapidly growing environment. The position offers a competitive compensation package, a collaborative team culture, and the chance to contribute to world-class innovations in next-generation photonic systems.