Post-Doctoral Researcher - Silicon Photonics for Computing Applications

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.ResponsibilitiesLead photonic integrated circuit (PIC) design and simulation using commercial toolsContribute to novel photonic computing architectures including optical in-memory and neuromorphic computingCoordinate tapeout and fabrication of silicon photonic devices with commercial foundriesCharacterize fabricated devices using optical and electrical test setupsCollaborate with interdisciplinary teams and external partners for end-to-end prototyping and validationContribute to publications, technical reports, and intellectual property developmentSkillsPh.D. in Electrical Engineering, Physics, Photonics, or a closely related fieldStrong background in Integrated Photonics, including demonstrated experience in PIC design, layout, and tapeout in commercial foundriesProficiency 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 plusStrong publication record and excellent communication skillsAbility to work independently and collaboratively in a multidisciplinary research environmentExperience with MPW runs (e.g., AIM Photonics, GF Fotonix)Exposure to optical in-memory compute or optical AI acceleratorsFamiliarity with advanced packaging methods for photonicsPrevious collaboration with industry or transition of research to commercial applicationsCompany OverviewUniversity 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 SponsorshipUniversity of Southern California has a track record of offering H1B sponsorships, with 253 in 2025, 239 in 2024, 172 in 2023, 207 in 2022, 182 in 2021, 195 in 2020. Please note that this does not guarantee sponsorship for this specific role.



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