Research Scientist

University Of Southern California

Job Location:

Arlington, TX - USA

Monthly Salary: $ 117129 - 120000

Posted on: 5 days ago

Vacancies: 1 Vacancy

Job Summary

The Application Specific Intelligent Computing (ASIC) Lab at USCs Information Sciences Institute (USCs ISI) invites applications for a Research Scientist position in Silicon Photonics with a focus on advanced computing applications.

The selected candidate will contribute to the design prototyping and testing of photonic devices and circuits aimed at enabling next-generation computing architectures such as optical in-memory computing. The role involves close collaboration with leading fabrication partners (e.g. GlobalFoundries AIM Photonics) participation in multi-project wafer (MPW) tapeouts and system-level experimental validation of fabricated prototypes. A strong drive for innovation is essential as the work will push the boundaries of current photonic technologies and computing models.

**This is a one year appointment with possibility of extension based on project funding and performance.**

**This position is located in our Arlington Virginia Office. Hybrid work option available.**

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.

Qualifications

Ph.D. in Electrical Engineering Physics Photonics or a closely related field.

Strong background in Integrated Phonics 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.

Preferred Experience

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.

Why Join Us

This position offers the opportunity to contribute to cutting-edge research in photonics-enabled hardware acceleration for AI and advanced computing. You will work alongside a dynamic team at the forefront of next-generation system design engaging in real-world prototyping with direct impact on future computing platforms.

The role provides hands-on collaboration with top-tier fabrication partners and national research consortia access to advanced prototyping infrastructure and the chance to shape the direction of innovative silicon photonics technologies. It is an ideal opportunity for those passionate about bridging fundamental research with practical scalable solutions.

The annual base salary range for this position is $117129 - $120000. When extending an offer of employment the University of Southern California considers factors such as (but not limited to) the scope and responsibilities of the position the candidates work experience education/training key skills internal peer equity federal state and local laws contractual stipulations grant funding as well as external market and organizational considerations.

Minimum Education: Doctor of Philosophy (PhD)

Minimum Experience: 5 years

Minimum Skills: Directly related education and experience in research specialization with highly advanced knowledge of equipment procedures analysis methods principles theories and concepts. Demonstrated leadership in developing new ideas and ability to publish in appropriate academic and practitioner outlets. Demonstrated independent thinking and leadership in scholarly writing according established criteria (e.g. first-authored publications conceptual leadership in the development of publications generated alone or with others writing of first drafts of publications and/or single-authored publications).

USC is an equal opportunity employer. All qualified applicants will receive consideration for employment without regard to race color religion sex sexual orientation gender identity national origin protected veteran status disability or any other characteristic protected by law or USC policy. USC observes affirmative action obligations consistent with state and federal law. USC will consider for employment all qualified applicants with criminal records in a manner consistent with applicable laws and regulations including the Los Angeles County Fair Chance Ordinance for employers and the Fair Chance Initiative for Hiring Ordinance and with due consideration for patient and student safety. Please refer to theBackground Screening Policy Appendix Dfor specific employment screen implications for the position for which you are applying.

We provide reasonable accommodations to applicants and employees with disabilities. Applicants with questions about access or requiring a reasonable accommodation for any part of the application or hiring process should contact USC Human Resources by phone at or by email at. Inquiries will be treated as confidential to the extent permitted by law.

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