Research Specialist

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Job Duties:

The Research Specialist position will contribute to advancing research in integrated photonics optical interconnects and semiconductor technologies with a focus on external cavity lasers copackaged optics (CPO) and 3D optoelectronic integration for next-generation AI and data communication systems. This role will function as a key technical contributor within the research group supporting both fundamental device innovation and system-level development aligned with departmental and institutional research priorities.

Key Job Responsibilities:

• Reviews analyzes and interprets data and/or documents results for presentations and/or reporting to internal and external audiences

• Performs literature reviews and writes reports

• Conducts research experiments according to established research protocols with moderate impact to the project(s). Collects data and monitors test results

• Participates in the development interpretation and implementation of research methodology and materials

• Operates cleans and maintains organization of research equipment and research area. Tracks inventory levels and places replenishment orders

• Provides operational guidance on day-to-day activities of unit or program staff and/or student workers

Department:

College of Engineering and Applied Science

Compensation:

65000 (Final salary offer will be determined based on qualifications and experience)

Job Responsibilities:

Specific responsibilities include but are not limited to:

• Designing modeling and optimizing photonic devices and systems including external cavity lasers and integrated optical components

• Conducting experimental validation and characterization of photonic devices and optical systems

• Developing system-level architectures for optical interconnects and co-packaged optics applications

• Contributing to the preparation of research proposals and technical reports to support external funding efforts

• Publishing research ϐindings in peer-reviewed journals and presenting at conferences

• Collaborating with faculty students and external partners to advance interdisciplinary research initiatives

• Mentoring graduate and undergraduate students and supporting the development of research infrastructure

Work will be performed primarily on-site with collaboration across research teams and potential engagement with external industry and government partners.

Required Qualifications:

• PhD in Electrical Engineering Applied physics Photonics or a closely related field

• Demonstrated expertise in integrated photonics semiconductor lasers or optical systems

• Experience in simulation design or experimental characterization of photonic devices

• Strong record of peer-reviewed publications in relevant research areas

• Ability to conduct independent research and contribute to collaborative projects

• Effective written and verbal communication skills for technical reporting and publication

Preferred Qualifications:

• Experience with external cavity lasers narrow-linewidth laser design or optical source development

• Experience with co-packaged optics (CPO) optical interconnects or data communication systems

• Familiarity with photonic simulation tools (e.g. Lumerical COMSOL MATLAB) Experience with experimental optical setups including laser characterization and noise measurements (e.g. RIN linewidth)

• Experience contributing to research proposal development or funded projects Experience mentoring students or working in interdisciplinary research environments

• Experience collaborating with industry or translating research toward practical applications

Education:

PhD

How to Apply:

Interested applicants please apply online no later than May 18th. Please include both a resume and cover letter for consideration.

Contact Information:

Any questions regarding this position please direct to Amy Rehfeldt at

Reasonable Accommodations
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Confidentiality of Applicant Materials
UWMis a State agency and subject to Wisconsins Open Records not however reveal the identities of applicants who request confidentiality in writing except as may be required by Wisconsins Open Records certain circumstances the identities of final candidates and/or the identity of the appointed applicant must be revealed upon request.

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Employment will require a criminal background the prevention of sexual misconduct seriously. As such you and your references will be required to answer questions regarding any past findings of sexual violence and sexual harassment or any pending allegations of sexual violence or sexual harassment.

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Employment Authorization
In compliance with federal law all persons at the time of their start date will be required to verify identity and eligibility to work in the United States and to complete the required employment eligibility verification form upon hire.

UW is an Equal Opportunity Employer
Qualified applicants will receive consideration for employment without regard to race color religion sex sexual orientation gender identity national origin age pregnancy disability status as a protected veteran or any other bases protected by applicable federal or State law and UW System policies. We are committed to building a workforce that represents a variety of backgrounds perspectives and skills and encourage all qualified individuals to apply.