Scientist Integrated Photonics (PIC) | DELFT

TNO Optics designs and fabricates high-end optical systems for a broad range of applications, such as space-based atmospheric monitoring, optical satellite communication, medical instrumentation, quantum technologies, structural health monitoring and instrumentation for the semiconductor industry. This work is for customers including Airbus, NASA and ESA, and for projects such as the Sentinel 5 global air quality monitoring satellite and ITER. Our optics technology expertise ranges from large-scale geometrical optics to fibre optics, integrated photonics and sub-wavelength metamaterials.

With a background in applied physics or engineering, and a strong interest in integrated photonics, you will be working as an Optical Scientist specialized in Photonic Integrated Circuits (PICs). TNO develops PICs for applications in opto-acoustics, quantum technology, metrology, lidar and biosensing. Our projects are typically multi-disciplinary, combining PIC expertise with substantial knowledge of the respective application domains. You will work closely with your direct colleagues of the Optics group, with other TNO experts from other domains, and with external stakeholders, suppliers and customers. In addition, you will be collaborating with colleagues at the Holst Centre (Eindhoven) and the Chip Integration Technology Centre (Nijmegen) on hybrid integration and packaging processes.

See more of the TNO Unit High Tech Industry and the Optics Group.

You will be involved in the development, validation and implementation of PIC-based systems for various markets, including medical instrumentation, opto-acoustics, optical (satellite) communication and quantum technologies. Your work relates not only to optical aspects but also to thermal, mechanical and acoustic considerations. You reflect on manufacturability, cost and optical and electrical interconnect, and analyse power budget, transfer functions and noise performance. You will contribute to the technology strategy, system architectures, chip designs and coordination of fabrication at selected foundries, as well as to experimental characterization and validation of PIC-based devices and systems. You will regularly and intensively discuss results, progress, deviations and possible improvements with teams of other technical specialists, project leaders and system engineers, based both at TNO and at our customers and partners.

As an optical scientist you will be responsible for:

• Providing and maintaining up-to-date technical expertise on PIC technology.
• Developing and executing measurement protocols for standardized and custom tests, and developing the required measurement setups.
• Relating PIC performance to the higher-level architecture of the system in which the PIC is one of the components.
• Successful validation of PIC technology in use cases for a range of applications.
• Guiding colleagues from various departments, with a range of different expertise, to enable PIC-based systems.
• Delivering high-quality work to satisfy the needs of our customers.

A considerable level of creativity, autonomy and initiative is expected from you. To be able to perform your role well, it is important that you recognize yourself in the following profile:

• A PhD degree in physics or engineering, with knowledge relevant for the tasks described above.
• A multi-disciplinary spirit, and the ability to connect multiple domains in physics to create integrated solutions.
• Preferably some experience with working integrated photonics, including a knowledge of PIC material platforms, fabrication methods and technologies and experience in PIC chip-level testing.
• Experience in the use of MATLAB and/or Python for modelling and signal processing.
• Additional experience in using modelling and device design software (i.e. Lumerical, Photon Design, Synopsis or similar) would be an advantage.
• You are ambitious and would like to further develop your skills in the field of integrated photonics with a focus on application-driven technology development.
• Like to work together with others to achieve the best results.
• Able to communicate fluently in English (you will have many international colleagues and collaborators).

Challenging and varied work with a real impact. And plenty of opportunities as, at TNO, you are in charge of shaping your career. We offer a gross monthly salary between € 4,000 and € 5,000 (based on your knowledge and experience), 8% holiday pay, a 13th month bonus of 8.33% and a flex budget (5.58% + € 180). In addition, you will be given every opportunity to develop yourself.

Perhaps you would like to grow your career in the direction of commerce or consultancy? Or would you like to become a project manager? Immerse yourself in sustainable innovations? Or carve out a career as a technical expert?

TNO offers optional employee benefits, enabling you to tailor your benefits package to match your personal situation. You may also expect:

• An extremely professional, innovative working environment where colleagues are leading experts in their field.
• The opportunity to attend courses, workshops and conferences, and to receive training and coaching based on your needs.
• 33 days annual leave on a full-time basis.
• An employer that values and encourages diverse talent, with initiatives like the Female Leadership Program, our Rainbow Community and round tables on inclusion topics.
• We offer a comprehensive and flexible mobility plan that also includes full compensation for public transportation for commuting and business travel.
• Great social events with your team and other TNO colleagues. That’s how you will get to know a lot of people really quickly.
• Flexible working hours, the possibility to work parttime (32 of 36 hours (4x9)) and the possibility of working from home.
• Extensive relocation package for international candidates.
• A good pension scheme.

Read more about tailoring your benefits package.

At TNO, we innovate for a healthier, safer and more sustainable life. And for a strong economy. Since 1932, we have been making knowledge and technology available for the common good. We find each other in wonder and ingenuity. We are driven to push boundaries. There is all the space and support for your talent and ambition. You work with people who will challenge you: who inspire you and want to learn from you. Our state-of-the-art facilities are there to realize your vision. What you do at TNO matters: impact makes the difference. Because with every innovation you contribute to tomorrow’s world. Read more about TNO as an employer.

At TNO we encourage an inclusive work environment, where you can be yourself. Whatever your story and whatever unique qualities you bring to the table. It is by combining our unique strengths and perspectives that we are able to develop innovations that make a real difference in society. Want to know more? Read what steps we are taking in the area of diversity and inclusion.

Please apply before Sunday 20th of April, 2025. The selection process comprises two interview rounds. The preliminary interview takes place in week 18 and 19. The second interview round has been scheduled for week 20 and 21. In a final meeting we will discuss the terms of employment and your tailored benefits package. We aim to finalize the entire process within four weeks.

The selection process may include an online assessment and a reference check.

A certificate of Conduct (VOG) is required before starting a new job at TNO.