Assistant Scientist in Integrated Photonic Systems, College of Optics and Photonics

The University of Central Florida (UCF) is looking for a 12-month, non-tenure earning assistant scientist, associate scientist, or scientist, to conduct research in the College of Optics and Photonics. This position is located at the UCF main campus with an anticipated start date in late Fall 2026 but no later than Spring 2027. UCF is undergoing rapid growth in the size of external research funding, academic stature, and student and faculty groups.

UCF supports and benefits from economic growth in Central Florida, which is emerging as a major hub for technology development. The University is located in the metropolitan Orlando area, which offers a vibrant lifestyle and a variety of cultural and recreational activities.

CREOL (Center for Research and Education in Optics and Lasers) is one of the world's foremost institutions for research and education in optical and photonic science and engineering. The College offers MS and PhD degrees in optics and photonics, and a BS degree in photonic science and engineering. The faculty engages in fundamental and applied research and education in lasers, optical fibers, semiconductor and integrated photonic devices, nonlinear and quantum optics, imaging, sensing, and displays.

The college is home to CREOL, Florida Photonics Center of Excellence (FPCE), and Townes Laser Institute (TLI), and the Institute for the Frontier of Attosecond Science and Technology (iFAST). In addition, the College of Medicine, which includes the Burnett School of Biomedical Sciences, provides rich opportunities for collaboration. For more information see (Use the "Apply for this Job" box below)..

The Optical Communication and Photonic Systems Group (https://) is seeking multiple Assistant Research Scientists to participate in research in integrated photonic systems for applications in free-space and optical fiber communication, datacenter interconnects, optical signal processing and computing.

• Modelling, design and optimization of active and passive photonic devices using custom and commercial design and simulation packages
• Multi-plane light conversion
• Integrated device fabrication (in house and/or via foundry services) using various material platforms (SiN, Si, III-V)
• Optical and electro-optical characterization of integrated devices and subsystems.
• Digital signal processing, control/optimization, AI/ML
• System applications and demonstrations

• Ph.D. from an accredited institution in Optics, Physics, Electrical Engineering or a closely related field.
• 2 years of experience in the field.

• Experience in at least two or more areas of the following: active and passive photonic devices, multi-plane light conversion, integrated device fabrication, digital signal processing or system applications and demonstrations.

Open until filled.

Please keep in mind that a job posted as 'Open until filled' may close at any time without notice. As such, we encourage you to submit your application and all required documentation as quickly as possible to ensure consideration for the posted position.

As a next-generation public research university and Forbes-ranked top employer in Florida, we are a community of thinkers, doers, creators, innovators, healers, and leaders striving to create broader prosperity and help shape a better future. No matter what your role is, when you join Knight Nation, you'll play an integral role at one of the most impactful universities in the country.

You'll be met with opportunities to connect and collaborate with talented faculty, staff, and students across 13 colleges and multiple campuses, engaging in impactful work that makes a positive difference. Your time at UCF will provide you with many meaningful opportunities to grow, you'll work alongside talented colleagues on complex projects that will challenge you and help you gain new skills and you'll have countless rewarding experiences that go well beyond a paycheck.

• Benefit packages, including Medical, Dental, Vision, Life Insurance, Flexible Spending, and Employee Assistance Program.
• Paid time off, including annual (12-month faculty) and sick time off and paid holidays.
• Retirement savings options.
• Employee…