Optics and Vision Scientist

Cupertino, California, United States Hardware

Apple is seeking a scientist with deep expertise in human visual optics and vision science to help develop groundbreaking imaging and display technologies for future products. Joining the Vision Science Group—a multidisciplinary team spanning color science, psychophysics, and neuroscience—you will apply fundamental science and engineering to deliver unparalleled visual experiences. We thrive in a highly collaborative, hands‑on environment that fosters scientific excellence, creativity, and innovation.

Leveraging your expertise in clinical vision and optics, you will conceive, design, tes t, and deploy advanced optics and display technologies that seamlessly integrate across Apple’s hardware, software, and services.

• Guide the design and evaluation of sophisticated optical systems to ensure a healthy, comfortable, and perceptually optimal user visual experience.
• Develop robust display quality metrics that account for individual variations in human visual optics and ophthalmic corrections.
• Design and conduct human‑subjects research and psychophysical studies to assess visual performance and satisfaction.
• Define hardware specifications and new product features grounded in fundamental vision science and industry standards.
• Synthesize current optics and ophthalmics literature to solve complex image quality challenges.
• Drive the end‑to‑end development of new display capabilities, bridging fundamental science and consumer technology.

• Bachelor's degree in Vision Science, Optometry, Optics, or a related field with 10 years of experience
• Experience in the mathematical and computational modeling of the human visual system
• Experience designing, conducting, and analyzing human subjects research in optics and vision

• Ph.D. or OD in Vision Science, Optometry, Optics, or a related field
• Advanced understanding of geometrical and wavefront optics, including adaptive optics and linear systems theory (e.g., Fourier analysis, digital filtering)
• Hands‑on experience with clinical and research instruments such as wavefront sensors, autorefractors, lensometers, and eye‑tracking technology
• Proficiency in simulation and modeling tools (e.g., MATLAB, Mathematica) and optical design software (e.g., Zemax)
• Experience implementing experiments using tools like Psychophysics Toolbox, Psycho Py, or QUEST+.
• Familiarity with developing custom iOS applications for research or testing
• Exceptional written and verbal communication skills to effectively collaborate across cross‑functional engineering teams.

At Apple, base pay is one part of our total compensation package and is determined within a range. This provides the opportunity to progress as you grow and develop within a role. The base pay range for this role is between $181,100 and $318,400, and your base pay will depend on your skills, qualifications, experience, and location.

Apple employees also have the opportunity to become an Apple shareholder through participation in Apple’s discretionary employee stock programs. Apple employees are eligible for discretionary restricted stock unit awards, and can purchase Apple stock at a discount if voluntarily participating in Apple’s Employee Stock Purchase Plan. You’ll also receive benefits including:
Comprehensive medical and dental coverage, retirement benefits, a range of discounted products and free services, and for formal education related to advancing your career at Apple, reimbursement for certain educational expenses — including tuition. Additionally, this role might be eligible for discretionary bonuses or commission payments as well as relocation. Learn more about Apple Benefits.

Note:

Apple benefit, compensation and employee stock programs are subject to eligibility requirements and other terms of the applicable plan or program.

Apple is an equal opportunity employer that is committed to inclusion and diversity. We seek to promote equal opportunity for all applicants without regard to race, color, religion, sex, sexual orientation, gender identity, national origin, disability, Veteran status, or other legally protected characteristics. Learn more about your EEO rights as an applicant.

At Apple, we believe accessibility is a fundamental human right. You’ll find that idea reflected in everything here — in our culture, our benefits and our digital tools. By welcoming as many perspectives as possible, we help you build a career where you feel like you belong.

Learn about accessibility in Apple’s workplace.

Learn about reasonable accommodations for job applicants.

Apple accepts applications to this posting on an ongoing basis.