Post-Doctoral Researcher - Silicon Photonics Computing

The Application Specific Intelligent Computing (ASIC) Lab at USC’s Information Sciences Institute (USC’s ISI) invites applications for a post‑doctoral position in Silicon Photonics, with a focus on advanced computing applications.

Leads design, prototyping and testing of photonic devices and circuits to enable next‑generation computing architectures, such as optical in‑memory computing. Collaborates closely with leading fabrication partners (e.g., Global Foundries, AIM Photonics) and participates in multi‑project wafer (MPW) tapeouts, performing system‑level experimental validation of fabricated prototypes.

• Lead photonic integrated circuit (PIC) design and simulation using commercial tools.
• Develop novel photonic computing architectures, including optical in‑memory and neuromorphic computing.
• Coordinate tapeout and fabrication of silicon photonic devices with commercial foundries.
• Characterize fabricated devices using optical and electrical test setups.
• Collaborate with interdisciplinary teams and external partners for end‑to‑end prototyping and validation.
• Contribute to publications, technical reports and intellectual property development.

• Ph.D. in Electrical Engineering, Physics, Photonics, or a closely related field.
• Strong background in Integrated Phonics, with demonstrated experience in PIC design, layout and tapeout in commercial foundries.
• Proficiency with photonic design and simulation tools (e.g., Lumerical, IPKISS, Ansys, KLayout).
• Hands‑on experience in device fabrication, testing and characterization (e.g., probe stations, tunable lasers, optical spectrum analyzers).
• Strong publication record and excellent communication skills.
• Ability to work independently and collaboratively in a multidisciplinary research environment.
• Minimum education:
  
  Ph.D. or equivalent doctorate within the previous three years.
• Minimum experience:
  
  0–1 year post‑doctoral experience, or equivalent research experience.
• Field of expertise:
  Directly related research specialization with advanced knowledge of equipment, procedures and analysis methods.

• Experience with MPW runs (e.g., AIM Photonics, GF Fotonix).
• Exposure to optical in‑memory compute or optical AI accelerators.
• Familiarity with advanced packaging methods for photonics.
• Previous collaboration with industry or transition of research to commercial applications.

Annual base salary range: $80,000–$90,000. One‑year appointment with possibility of extension based on project funding and performance. Hybrid work option available. This position offers hands‑on collaboration with top‑tier fabrication partners and access to advanced prototyping infrastructure.

USC is an equal‑opportunity employer. All qualified applicants will receive consideration for employment without regard to race, color, religion, sex, sexual orientation, gender identity, national origin, protected veteran status, disability, or any other characteristic protected by law or USC policy. USC observes affirmative‑action obligations consistent with state and federal law and will consider for employment all qualified applicants with criminal records in a manner consistent with applicable laws and regulations.