Postdoctoral Researcher: Inverse Design of Flat Optics for imagers and AR

What you will do

Flat optics components (or optical meta-surfaces) are nano-machined sub-wavelength objects used to manipulate the phase, amplitude, or polarization of light, typically much smaller and lighter than the optical systems they replace. They allow the implementation of complex optical functions using a relatively simple semiconductor manufacturing process. Well-known techniques exist to design meta-surfaces when the interactions between adjacent unit cell elements are limited. However, when elements become more closely coupled many degrees of freedom need to be included in the optimization algorithm, which is computationally challenging. Using the adjoint method it has been shown that the design of flat optic devices with many degrees of freedom can be dramatically accelerated. We are looking for a motivated post-doc to join our team to develop and leverage state of the art inverse design techniques to design and manufacture flat optics utilizing imec’s advanced technology nodes. As post-doc, you will:

• Investigate and implement state of the art design techniques, such as the adjoint method
• Design structures such as color splitting structures with polarization control or large-scale flat optics devices for augmented reality
• Make fabrication aware design that leverages the capabilities but also takes into the account of imec’s 200mm and 300mm pilot lines with Deep-UV, Extreme-UV or Nano-imprint lithography (NIL). Making integrated photonic designs, including modeling, simulations, and layout
• Develop characterization techniques and setups to characterize key performance aspects.
• Interface and collaborate with a team working in the field of flat optics

What we do for you

We offer you the opportunity to join one of the world’s premier research centers in nanotechnology at its headquarters in Leuven, Belgium. With your talent, passion and expertise, you’ll become part of a team that makes the impossible possible. Together, we shape the technology that will determine the society of tomorrow.

We are committed to being an inclusive employer and proud of our open, multicultural, and informal working environment with ample possibilities to take initiative and show responsibility. We commit to supporting and guiding you in this process; not only with words but also with tangible actions. Through imec.academy, 'our corporate university', we actively invest in your development to further your technical and personal growth.

We are aware that your valuable contribution makes imec a top player in its field. Your energy and commitment are therefore appreciated by means of a competitive scholarship.

Who you are

• You are a highly motivated researcher holding a PhD in photonics, physics or related
• You have a strong background in scripting and programming, and have experience in languages such as Python (preferred) and C/C++
• You have experience in optical characterization
• You can work according to agreed timelines and manage time efficiently according to the project schedules
• You take initiative and work on your own, while being part of a team.
• You are result-driven and flexible to meet stringent deadlines with quality output

This postdoctoral position is funded by imec through KU Leuven. Because of the specific financing statute which targets international mobility for postdocs, only candidates who did not stay or work/study in Belgium for more than 24 months in the past 3 years can be considered for the position (short stays such as holiday, participation in conferences, etc. are not taken into account).