Photonic Engineer - Design \u0026 Layout (Integrated Photonics Unit)

About the role

{"id":1111133,"type":"requisition_detail","name":"Job Description","value":"## About OptQC\nOptQC is a deep-tech startup spun out of the University of Tokyo, founded with the mission of achieving the social implementation and commercialization of \"optical quantum computers.\"\nWhile multiple modalities exist in the quantum computing landscape, we focus on the optical quantum approach. We are confident that this method is the most suitable for practical application and widespread adoption due to its inherent scalability and seamless integration with optical communications. Through continuous research and development, we aim to balance energy efficiency with high computing power, overcome the limits of human information processing, and contribute to a sustainable society.\n\n## Background\nTo push the boundaries of optical quantum computing, our team leverages integrated photonics to miniaturize optical circuits, achieve unprecedented phase stability, and accelerate light detection and modulation.\nBy harnessing enhanced light-matter interactions and efficient custom nonlinear optical processes, the Integrated Photonics unit explores next-generation photonic platforms to power our quantum architecture.\n\n## Key Responsibilities\nIn this role, you will be responsible for the design, simulation, and optimization of the integrated photonic components that form the building blocks of our photonic integrated circuits (PICs) for optical quantum computing.\nYour core focus will be translating device-level performance targets into robust, foundry-ready designs. This includes electromagnetic and multiphysics modelling, design optimization, layout generation, and close iteration with measurement results across tape-out cycles.\n- Component Design \u0026 Simulation: Design and model photonic components such as waveguides, directional and adiabatic couplers, MMIs, interferometers, ring resonators, and edge/grating couplers using FDTD, FEM, and multiphysics (e.g., thermo-optic, electro-optic) solvers.\n- Optimization \u0026 Automation: Build simulation and optimization workflows, including inverse design and machine-learning-assisted approaches, to improve loss, bandwidth, footprint, and fabrication tolerance.\n- Layout \u0026 Tape-out: Generate PDK-based and scripted (parametric) layouts, run design-rule checks, and prepare submissions to commercial foundries and partner facilities.\n- Design–Measurement Feedback: Analyze characterization data with the test team, extract model parameters, and maintain compact models and component libraries for circuit-level design.\n\n## The Role \u0026 Impact\nAs a research-driven team, the Integrated Photonics unit offers an environment rich with creative freedom and technical versatility.\nYou will see your designs through the full cycle: from simulation and layout, to tape-outs with established foundries, to in-house testing of custom photonic chips.\nThe components you design directly determine the loss, stability, and scalability of our quantum photonic circuits. You will also help shape the design methodology and component libraries the team relies on, across both mature platforms and emerging materials such as SiN and thin-film lithium niobate.","selected":true},{"id":1111134,"type":"requisition_detail","name":"Required Qualifications","value":"- Degree: Master’s or Ph.D. in one of the following fields:\n - Integrated photonics, optics, or photonics engineering\n - Physics or applied physics\n - Electrical/electronic engineering, or a related field\n- Hands-on experience with photonic device simulation using FDTD and FEM solvers (e.g., Ansys Lumerical, COMSOL, Tidy3D, or equivalent), including multiphysics modelling (thermal, electro-optic, or mechanical).\n- Solid understanding of waveguide theory, mode analysis, and coupled-mode theory, and the ability to apply them to the design of couplers, interferometers, and resonators.\n- Proficiency in programming (e.g., Python, MATLAB) for simulation automation, parametric layout, and data analysis.\n- Experience applying machine learning or numerical optimization (e.g., inverse design, adjoint methods, Bayesian optimization) to photonic device design.\n- Foundational knowledge of photonic integrated circuit platforms (such as Si, SiN, LN, etc.) and PDK-based design flows.\n- 2+ years of practical experience in integrated photonic device design (including research during Master’s/Ph.D. programs).\n- Project Execution: Ability to independently drive design tasks from specification to tape-out, document designs clearly, and coordinate with fabrication and test colleagues.\n","selected":true},{"id":1111135,"type":"requisition_detail","name":"Preferred Qualifications","value":"- Experience with photonic layout tools (e.g., KLayout, gdsfactory, IPKISS/Luceda, Synopsys) and DRC/LVS flows.\n- A track record of taped-out designs that have been fabricated and characterized.\n- Experience building ML-based surrogate models or large-scale design-space exploration.\n- Hands-on experience with optical characterization of PICs.\n- Publications in peer-reviewed journals or conferences.\n- Interest in or knowledge of quantum optics or continuous-variable (CV) quantum computing.","selected":true},{"id":1111136,"type":"requisition_detail","name":"Ideal Candidate Profile","value":"- Individuals who understand devices from first principles and enjoy turning physical insight into optimized, manufacturable designs.\n- Individuals who combine strong numerical and coding skills with careful engineering judgment.\n- Individuals who are eager to co-create new value with a variety of internal and external stakeholders and organizations.","selected":true},{"id":1111137,"type":"requisition_detail","name":"Salary","value":"13 million JPY or more (Determined based on experience and skills)","selected":true},{"id":1111138,"type":"requisition_detail","name":"Location","value":["15th Floor, IT tower TOKYO, 3-28-13 Nishi-Ikebukuro, Toshima-ku, Tokyo 171-0021, Japan"],"selected":true},{"id":1111139,"type":"requisition_detail","name":"Employment Type","value":"Full-time","selected":true},{"id":1111140,"type":"requisition_detail","name":"Hiring Process","value":"- Document Screening *Please submit a publication list\n- Interview (2–3 rounds) *Includes a research / work presentation\n- Offer Meeting\n\n[Additional Information]\n- Interviews are generally conducted online; however, candidates will be required to visit our office at least once.\n - Please consult with us if this is difficult for you.\n - Transportation expenses will be reimbursed for candidates traveling from distant locations (subject to company regulations).\n- Reference checks may be requested during the selection process.\n- The selection process and the number of interview rounds are subject to change.","selected":true}

Source: OptQC's careers page via Html. Read by TQI on 1 Nov 2026.