Back to positions

Post-Doctoral Researcher - Silicon Photonics for Computing Applications

Remote role Full-time Open position

The University of Southern California is seeking a Post-Doctoral Researcher in Silicon Photonics for Computing Applications at their Information Sciences Institute. The selected candidate will design, prototype, and test photonic devices for next-generation computing architectures, collaborating with fabrication partners and participating in system-level experimental validation.

Responsibilities

  • Lead photonic integrated circuit (PIC) design and simulation using commercial tools
  • Contribute to 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

Skills

  • Ph.D. in Electrical Engineering, Physics, Photonics, or a closely related field
  • Strong background in Integrated Photonics, including 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., using probe stations, tunable lasers, optical spectrum analyzers)
  • Familiarity with materials such as Si, SiN, AlN, BaTiO₃, or 2D materials is a plus
  • Strong publication record and excellent communication skills
  • Ability to work independently and collaboratively in a multidisciplinary research environment
  • 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

Company Overview

  • University of Southern California is a private research university offering opportunities for interdisciplinary study and collaboration. It was founded in 1880, and is headquartered in Los Angeles, California, USA, with a workforce of 10001+ employees. Its website is http://www.usc.edu.
  • Company H1B Sponsorship

  • University of Southern California has a track record of offering H1B sponsorships, with 25 in 2026, 250 in 2025, 239 in 2024, 171 in 2023, 207 in 2022, 182 in 2021, 195 in 2020. Please note that this does not guarantee sponsorship for this specific role.
  • Apply To This Job

    Further positions

    Business Development Specialist

    Remote role Full-time

    [Remote] Renewals Representative – Mid Market Segment

    Remote role Full-time

    Desktop Support Engineer

    Remote role Full-time

    [Remote] Provider Engagement Professional

    Remote role Full-time

    [Remote] Account Development Representative

    Remote role Full-time

    Associate Power BI Analyst

    Remote role Full-time

    [Remote] Salesforce Data Analyst

    Remote role Full-time

    Recruiter (Hybrid)

    Remote role Full-time

    Alternative Data Management - Analyst

    Remote role Full-time

    [Remote] Email Coordinator

    Remote role Full-time

    Experienced Full Stack Software Engineer – Web & Cloud Application Development at arenaflex

    Remote role Full-time

    Hebrew Trust & Safety Ai Data Trainer

    Remote role Full-time

    Experienced Remote Customer Service Representative – Virtual Call Center Operations

    Remote role Full-time

    Experienced Claims Customer Service Representative – Automotive Warranty Coverage and Claims Support

    Remote role Full-time

    Insurance Credentialing Specialist

    Remote role Full-time

    Experienced Customer Service Representative – Remote Opportunity with arenaflex

    Remote role Full-time

    Texas Opportunity - Otolaryngologist/ENT/Head and Neck Surgeon

    Remote role Full-time

    Experienced Child Development Center Manager – Leadership Opportunity in Early Childhood Education and Program Development

    Remote role Full-time

    Experienced Junior Data Entry Assistant – Remote Opportunity at arenaflex

    Remote role Full-time

    Human Resources

    Remote role Full-time