Job Description

Do you have demonstrated proficiency designing, simulating and deploying systems that include PICs?

Are you able to provide deep technical mentorship focused on physics-based modeling and mask layout for PICs along with leadership throughout the design and test lifecycle?

If so, we're looking for someone like you to join our team at APL!

As a Photonic Device Design Fellow, you will join a team of computational and experimental physicists and engineers who are passionate about developing innovative solutions that can impact the future of integrated photonics. Our team is committed to scientific excellence and continuous improvement in an agile environment.

The requirements for this role may enable primarily remote interactions given the strong emphasis on modeling, design and simulation. APL is committed to growing capabilities in this area and considers strategic fellowship opportunities like this one to be essential catalysts for growing exceptional and dynamic teams in this critical area.

The Research and Exploratory Development Department (REDD) is Johns Hopkins APL’s research engine. We conduct pioneering research targeting radical breakthroughs to benefit national security missions.

We are engaged in research to overcome technology gaps that limit the use of photonic integrated circuits (PICs) and associated microelectronic systems in applications like biomedical sensing, microwave photonics, artificial intelligence, and quantum information. Our approach uses commercial photonics foundries, which we pair with novel materials integration, additive manufacturing, sophisticated design concepts, and environmentally-rugged packaging, to realize solutions that can transition into the field.

As a Photonic Device Design Fellow, you will:

• Contribute to APL's growing photonic integrated circuit ecosystem by leading complex and novel system design efforts utilizing a variety of MPW foundries.
• Expand the team's expertise in computational modeling and PIC layout optimization through technical leadership and direct mentorship.
• Develop and maintain APL’s internal component/sub-system library for fabless PIC manufacturing.
• Work with materials scientist and additive manufacturing engineers to augment PICs with novel materials.
• Create test plans to allow teams to conduct benchtop validation testing of PICs including those intended for qualified flight/space-flight operation.
• Develop independent research and development concepts and present/publish results in an effective and timely fashion.

Qualifications

You meet our minimum qualifications for the job if you...

• Hold a Ph.D. in a field related to integrated photonics.
• Have 1+ year of experience building integrated, fiber-optical and free-space photonics systems with a demonstrated track record successfulull results.
• Have experience in physics-based modeling of photonic components using tools from COMSOL, MEEP/MBP, Tidy3D, Ansys Lumerical, etc.
• Have a consistent record of layout of photonic integrated circuits using script-based layout tools (GDSfactory, OptoDesigner, Nazca, etc.)
• Are able to satisfy basic eligibility requirements including a background check and U.S. citizenship. (No clearance required).

You'll go above and beyond our minimum requirements if you...

• Have experience with programming embedded microcontrollers.

Why work at APL?

The Johns Hopkins University Applied Physics Laboratory (APL) brings world-class expertise to our nation’s most critical defense, security, space and science challenges. While we are dedicated to solving complex challenges and pioneering new technologies, what makes us truly outstanding is our culture. We offer a vibrant, welcoming atmosphere where you can bring your authentic self to work, continue to grow, and build strong connections with inspiring teammates.

At APL, we celebrate our differences and encourage creativity and bold, new ideas. Our employees enjoy generous benefits, including a robust education assistance program, unparalleled retirement contributions, and a healthy work/life balance. APL’s campus is located in the Baltimore-Washington metro area. Learn more about our career opportunities at http://www.jhuapl.edu/careers.

APL is an Equal Opportunity/Affirmative Action employer. All qualified applicants will receive consideration for employment without regard to race, creed, color, religion, sex, gender identity or expression, sexual orientation, national origin, age, physical or mental disability, genetic information, veteran status, occupation, marital or familial status, political opinion, personal appearance, or any other characteristic protected by applicable law.

APL is committed to promoting an innovative environment that embraces diversity, encourages creativity, and supports inclusion of new ideas. In doing so, we are committed to providing reasonable accommodation to individuals of all abilities, including those with disabilities. If you require a reasonable accommodation to participate in any part of the hiring process, please contact Accommodations@jhuapl.edu. Only by ensuring that everyone’s voice is heard are we empowered to be bold, do great things, and make the world a better place.

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