Senior Research Engineer - Quantum Photonic Integrated Circuit Fabrication

Senior Research Engineer - Quantum Photonic Integrated Circuit Fabrication

SAL - Silicon Austria Labs

Villach, Austria

Your future responsibilities

As part of the European Chips Act, Silicon Austria Labs (SAL) is driving innovation in quantum and semiconductor technologies through its Quantum Pilot Lines. Join our interdisciplinary teams at the interface of design and fabrication and enjoy Villach’s exceptional quality of life in the heart of the Austrian Alps. Be part of something bigger. Be part of Silicon Austria Labs.

The Integrated Photonics Technologies (IPT) research unit focuses on emerging photonic device approaches, including integrated photonics for quantum applications. We are seeking a motivated researcher to support the development of aluminum nitride (AlN)-based quantum photonic integrated circuits (PICs) in SAL’s R&D cleanroom. The role bridges research and fabrication pilot line, supporting the development of next-generation PIC for quantum communication, sensing, and metrology.

Your future responsibilities will include:

• Developing and fabricating photonic integrated circuits (PICs) for quantum applications
• Contributing to DOEs and AlN PIC process development
• Working hands-on in the cleanroom and closely with SAL’s process engineering team
• Driving process integration, stability, and performance improvements for scalable fabrication
• Collaborating within the team (design, PDK development and characterization) to ensure high fabrication fidelity
• Analyzing device performance data and implementing feedback into process refinements
• Supporting the transfer of mature processes into SAL’s cleanroom platform
• Contributing to reporting, documentation, IP generation, and patent applications
• Supporting industry and academic collaborations within multidisciplinary projects

Your profile

• PhD in electrical engineering, applied physics, or a related field, ideally with focus on integrated photonics (or MSc + equivalent work experience)
• Proficiency in PIC fabrication, preferably in R&D or pilot line environments
• Experience with layout tools (e.g. KLayout) and layout verification
• Hands-on experience with lithography tools, particularly EBL, and process
• Knowledge of EBL job preparation from cad to tool job files
• Solid programming skills in Python or similar (e.g. for automation, data analysis)
• Strong understanding of PIC component design and experimental characterization
• Strong organizational and documentation skills for technical reporting and IP generation
• Ability to work collaboratively across teams, including design, packaging, and testing
• Autonomous, passionate, well organized, enjoy working in a dynamic and multicultural team
• Knowledge of photonics market trends and technology roadmap is a plus
• Project management experience is an asset
• Excellent oral and written communication skills in English