Test Engineer Silicon Photonics

The Fraunhofer-Gesellschaft (www.fraunhofer.de) is one of the world's leading organizations for applied research. 74 institutes develop pioneering technologies for our economy and society - more precisely: 30,000 people from technology, science, administration, and IT. You know: Those who come to Fraunhofer want and can change something. For themselves, for us, and for the markets of today and tomorrow.

As a research and development partner for industry, Fraunhofer IMS develops customized microelectronic circuits, microsystems, and sensors for demanding applications. With one of the most powerful CMOS and MST cleanroom infrastructures in the German research landscape, we combine industrial manufacturing depth with scientific excellence.

Our Photonic Integrated Circuits (PIC) research group develops new photonic platforms. We combine existing technologies with newly created (meta-)materials and integrate our photonic circuits seamlessly with electronics. In this environment, we develop new materials that exhibit excellent optoelectronic properties. The application areas of our research lie in the fields of quantum photonics, Artificial Intelligence, and sensor technology, such as the development of interferometric systems and neuromorphic photonics, with the goal of making future AI data centers significantly more energy-efficient.

As part of APECS - one of Europe's EU Chips Act pilot lines - two state-of-the-art research and test laboratories are being created for the characterization of integrated photonic components and circuits, as well as inline and test measurements with automated Silicon Photonics Probers in a cleanroom environment. As an open-access pilot line, we provide start-ups, SMEs, and corporations access to modern post-CMOS processes - without their own fab, without millions in investment. As an expert in optoelectronic measurement technology, you will actively help shape this platform.

Here, you will drive change

• At the center of your activity is the characterization of integrated photonic components based on silicon nitride and novel 2D materials. In doing so, you will investigate optical, electrical, and electro-optical properties across the entire spectral range.
• For the validation of the new components and the analysis of manufacturing yield, you will use state-of-the-art measurement technology, including a fully automated Silicon Photonics prober, vector network analyzers, lightwave component analyzers, as well as supercontinuum lasers (400 nm-2 µm) - and femtosecond laser systems.
• In exchange with colleagues from Design and Packaging, you will develop and optimize measurement concepts. Furthermore, you will automate measurement routines and test sequences for precise and reproducible measurements using Python-based automation scripts for instrument control, data acquisition, and evaluation.
• Based on the measurement results obtained, you will analyze the behavior of the components, create meaningful reports, and derive concrete recommendations for the further development of processes and designs.
• In the further development of our new measurement laboratory, you will contribute your technical expertise, identify needs for additional measurement technology, and accompany the selection and procurement of new systems.
• Your area of responsibility is rounded off by the supervision of student and scientific assistants as well as Bachelor's and Master's theses, with which you will actively contribute to the promotion of young scientific talent.

This is what you bring to the table

Minimum qualifications:

• A very well-completed degree (Master/Uni-Diploma), preferably with a doctorate in the field of electrical engineering, physics, nanoengineering, or a comparable course of study
• Sound background in the characterization of photonic components - in particular, e.g., Silicon Photonics components and/or Silicon Nitride Photonics
• Very good Python skills for instrument control and measurement automation
• High attention to detail and analytical thinking skills for the development of reproducible measurement concepts, the interpretation of complex characterization data, and the derivation of technical recommendations for action
• Written and oral communication skills in English (at least B2 according to GER) to publish scientific results and to exchange ideas in an international environment; German skills for project documentation and internal communication are desirable

Desirable qualifications:

• Practical experience with electro-optical wafer- and die-level test systems
• Practical experience with high-speed measurement technology such as, e.g., bit error rate testers, digital communication analyzers, real-time oscilloscopes, vector network analyzers, and arbitrary waveform generators

What we have in store for you

• Unlike in classic test and characterization tasks, you will contribute your expertise already in the early development phases of new components. Your measurement results and recommendations flow directly into design decisions and the further development of our photonic technologies.
• You will have access to a state-of-the-art measurement environment - from automated Silicon Photonics probers to vector network analyzers and supercontinuum and femtosecond laser systems.
• Flexible working hours (flextime with integrated core working hours from 9:30 AM - 3:00 PM, Friday from 9:30 AM - 1:00 PM) as well as mobile working up to two days per week for a better balance of work and private life
• Company pension scheme (VBL) and a subsidy for the Deutschland-Ticket Job
• Very good transport connections via public transport/car (bus stop 50 m away, highway connection Kreuz Kaiserberg) as well as free underground parking with e-charging options and lockable bicycle parking spaces
• Free preventive offers such as annual influenza vaccinations or eye tests
• Support offers for reconciling family and career: "With-Child" office, emergency childcare, and consulting services for homecare/eldercare etc. in cooperation with the pme Familienservice
• Corporate Benefits: discounted offers from well-known manufacturers and brands

We value and promote the diversity of our employees' competencies and therefore welcome all applications - regardless of age, gender, nationality, ethnic and social origin, religion, worldview, disability, as well as sexual orientation and identity. Severely disabled people will be given preference if they are equally qualified. Our tasks are diverse and adaptable - for applicants with disabilities, we will work together to find solutions that optimally promote their abilities.

The position is initially limited to 3 years. However, we are interested in a long-term cooperation. The weekly working time is 39 hours. The position can also be filled part-time. Employment, remuneration, and social benefits are based on the collective agreement for the public service (TVöD). Additionally, Fraunhofer may grant performance- and success-related variable remuneration components.

With its focus on future-relevant key technologies as well as on the commercialization of results in business and industry, the Fraunhofer-Gesellschaft plays a central role in the innovation process. As a guide and impulse provider for innovative developments and scientific excellence, it helps to shape our society and our future.

Ready for change? Then apply now and make a difference! After receiving your online application, you will receive an automatic confirmation of receipt. We review your documents individually and will get back to you as soon as possible.

Ms. Anja Schwarzkopf Phone +49 203 3783-2913 E-Mail: personal@ims.fraunhofer.de Fraunhofer-Institut für Mikroelektronische Schaltungen und Systeme IMS www.ims.fraunhofer.de

Reference number: 85680 Application deadline:

Ms. Anja Schwarzkopf Phone +49 203 3783-2913 E-Mail: personal@ims.fraunhofer.de