Silicon Photonics Characterisation and Design Engineer

About the role

CERN is seeking a Silicon Photonics Characterisation and Design Engineer to join their team in Geneva, Switzerland. This full-time position involves working on the characterisation and design of silicon photonic devices and systems for advanced research applications. The engineer will contribute to research and development efforts in photonics technology within one of the world's leading particle physics research organisations and will be involved in the full lifecycle of photonic device development. The successful candidate will play a key part in advancing silicon photonic technologies that support CERN's scientific mission and will have the opportunity to contribute to groundbreaking discoveries in fundamental physics through innovative photonic solutions.

Key facts

What you'll do

• Design and optimise silicon photonic devices for research applications at CERN facilities
• Perform detailed characterisation measurements on photonic components and integrated photonic circuits
• Develop comprehensive test setups and measurement protocols for silicon photonics evaluation
• Collaborate closely with cross-functional teams across multiple physics and engineering disciplines
• Analyse experimental data and produce detailed technical reports on device performance metrics
• Support the integration of photonic systems into larger-scale experimental setups and detectors
• Troubleshoot and resolve technical issues in photonic device fabrication and testing workflows
• Maintain and regularly update all design documentation and characterisation databases systematically
• Participate in regular team meetings to discuss project progress and technical challenges
• Contribute to the development of new methodologies for photonic device assessment and validation
• Assist in the preparation of proposals and presentations for internal review and external stakeholder engagement
• Coordinate with external collaborators and vendors to ensure timely delivery of photonic components and systems

Requirements

• A demonstrated level of experience in silicon photonics design and characterisation techniques is required
• A strong understanding of photonic device physics and integrated optics principles is required for this role
• Proficiency in at least one photonic design or simulation software package is expected and valued
• Demonstrated practical experience using optical measurement equipment and laboratory instrumentation in a research setting
• Ability to work independently and as part of a collaborative research team in a fast-paced environment
• Good written and verbal communication skills for preparing detailed technical reports and presentation materials
• A relevant university degree in physics, electrical engineering, or a closely related technical field is necessary
• Attention to detail and a methodical approach to experimental work are essential qualities for success

Nice to have

• Prior familiarity with CERN's accelerator infrastructure or particle physics research environment is highly beneficial
• Hands-on experience working in cleanroom fabrication processes for photonic devices is valued and encouraged
• Working knowledge of programming languages useful for data analysis, automation, and experimental control
• A prior publication record in peer-reviewed journals related to photonics research is a strong plus
• Experience with optical simulation and modelling of photonic circuits and waveguides is a valuable asset

Skills & tools

• Experience with silicon photonic design software such as Lumerical or COMSOL is important for device modelling
• Hands-on experience with optical measurement instruments including spectrometers, interferometers, and optical spectrum analysers
• Data analysis tools like Python or MATLAB for processing experimental results and generating visualisations
• Proficiency in CAD tools for device layout and schematic capture of photonic integrated circuits
• Working knowledge of version control systems for design file management and collaborative development
• Familiarity with laboratory equipment including fibre optic coupling setups, alignment tools, and optical benches
• Familiarity with version control systems such as Git for managing design files and collaboration

Practical notes

• The position is based at CERN facilities in Geneva, Switzerland, and requires regular on-site presence at the laboratory
• This is a full-time role with standard working hours and regular team collaboration meetings
• The successful candidate will be part of a multidisciplinary engineering team working on advanced photonics research projects
• Travel may be required for collaboration with partner institutions and attendance at international scientific conferences
• The role offers the chance to work in a multicultural and diverse research environment
• The position provides exposure to state-of-the-art photonics research facilities and equipment at CERN

About the company

CERN runs the biggest particle physics lab globally. Founded in 1954, headquarters sit in Meyrin near Geneva, on the France Switzerland border. Membership includes 25 nations. Israel joined in 2013 and resides outside Europe. United Nations General Assembly status is observer. Scientific exploration drives operations. International collaboration defines culture. Roles span engineering, computing, and research. Opportunities attract diverse talent. Ambitions center on advancing knowledge. Work happens at the intersection of theory and experiment, supported by shared infrastructure and open science principles.