Nanofabrication Engineer development of novel photonic integrated circuits

Mission

To develop advanced processes and techniques for next‑generation photonic integrated circuits and lasers. This role will involve collaborating with Bühler Group on a 2‑year industry research project, which has the potential for startup commercialization. The researcher will develop advanced thin‑film deposition and ion‑beam trimming techniques on various material platforms, such as SiN, LTOI and LNOI. He or she will lead the collaboration with Bühler Group on in‑house fabrication of wafer‑scale integrated photonic circuits, ensuring optimal operation and reproducibility in the cleanroom facilities (CMi).

The candidate will design, fabricate, and characterize PICs for the project, as well as develop and improve existing processes and explore new material platforms and tools available from Bühler. The researcher will also regularly travel to the R&D facilities in Germany to assist in optimising the recipes, prepare quarterly reports, and facilitate effective technical exchanges between LPQM and the Bühler Group.

High‑level publications are expected at the end of the project in collaboration with the industrial partner. The position offers the potential for technology transfer to a startup.

• Fabricate photonics chips using advanced semiconductor processing (etching, lithography, thin film depositions)
• Perform statistical analysis of in‑line metrology of the fabrication process, develop measurements to ensure reproducibility
• Explore new material deposition techniques, etching techniques, cladding oxides, wafer platforms
• Test and learn to operate new tools
• Characterise the photonic chip performance

• Assist in the process development and master the tools available ument progress and report back to the team.

• Modify existing designs to test the tool capabilities
• Design new PIC devices to demonstrate the capabilities of the developed processes, using new techniques, tools and materials

• Quarterly report preparation
• Technical reports on each new process, as defined in the project tasks
• Technical meeting organisation and reporting on a need to go basis
• Publication of new results in high‑impact journals

• PhD in engineering or sciences with micro‑nanofabrication of PICs as the theme of the thesis
• 3‑5 years equivalent experience in thin film process development, instrument operation, and/or the fabrication industry
• Extensive cleanroom experience

• Ability to rigorously follow processes
• Ability to operate instruments with a high level of patience and attention to detail
• Willingness to maintain highly organised data records

• Ability to work independently, with a high level of responsibility
• Strong communication skills towards other lab members, CMi staff and collaborators
• Willingness to work in a multi‑national team
• Willingness to travel

• Proficiency with Microsoft Office
• Familiarity with K‑layout, COMSOL, Lumerical

• Working proficiency in English, German and/or French is a plus

• A young, dynamic, flexible and highly motivated R&D environment
• A productive team with high scientific and industrial impacts
• Excellent laboratory conditions at Center of Micro Nano Technology  at EPFL
• Opportunity to work on technology development with potential continuation in industry
• Potential for technology transfer to a startup

Only applications submitted through the platform will be considered.

Contract

Start Date:

as soon as possible. Applications will be evaluated on a rolling basis.

Activity Rate: 100%

Contract Type: CDD

Duration: 1 year, renewable

Reference: 2057

For complementary information, please contact Prof. Tobias Kippenberg by e-mail: tobias.kippenberg