Assistant Scientist, Associate Scientist, or Scholar Scientist in Optics and Photonics

University of Central Florida•Orlando, FL

19d•Onsite

About The Position

The University of Central Florida (UCF) is seeking a 12-month, non-tenure earning Assistant Scientist, Associate Scientist, or Scholar Scientist to teach in the College of Optics and Photonics (CREOL). This position is located at the UCF main campus with an anticipated start date in Fall 2026, no later than Spring 2027. UCF is a rapidly growing university with significant external research funding, academic stature, and a growing student and faculty body. The university supports and benefits from the economic growth in Central Florida, which is emerging as a major hub for technology development. The metropolitan Orlando area offers a vibrant lifestyle with diverse cultural and recreational activities. CREOL is a leading institution for research and education in optical and photonic science and engineering, offering MS and PhD degrees in optics and photonics, and a BS degree in photonic science and engineering. Faculty engage in fundamental and applied research in areas such as lasers, optical fibers, semiconductor and integrated photonic devices, nonlinear and quantum optics, imaging, sensing, and displays. The college houses several prominent centers including the Center for Research and Education in Optics and Lasers (CREOL), Florida Photonics Center of Excellence (FPCE), Townes Laser Institute (TLI), and the Institute for the Frontier of Attosecond Science and Technology (iFAST). Additionally, the College of Medicine, including the Burnett School of Biomedical Sciences, offers opportunities for interdisciplinary collaboration. The Semiconductor Diode Laser Group, led by Dr. Yehuda Braiman, focuses on coherently phase- and frequency-locking coupled arrays of semiconductor diode lasers for coherent beam combining. This is crucial for applications like directed energy, optical communications, and optical sensing, where individual diode laser power is often insufficient. The group investigates diode laser arrays across various wavelengths (near-infrared and blue spectral regions) using both single-mode and broad-area emitters, exploring challenges in synchronizing large arrays of coupled nonlinear lasers and the effects of parameter heterogeneity and disorder on phase-locking performance.

Requirements

Ph.D. in Optics or a related field, such as Engineering, Physics, or Chemistry.
At least three years of experience conducting experimental research involving optical systems, semiconductor diode lasers and diode laser arrays.

Nice To Haves

Extensive knowledge of nonlinear dynamics and scientific computing, including the ability to develop computational models and write simulation codes for the dynamics of semiconductor diode laser arrays in external cavity.
Experience with theoretical and numerical models of coupled diode laser arrays.
Strong publication record in the field of semiconductor diode lasers, with demonstrated expertise in the phase-locking of diode laser arrays.

Responsibilities

Take part in, and lead experiments conducted by our group.
Design, build, and perform new experiments aimed at improving phase- and frequency-locking and beam combining of diode laser arrays.
Develop computational models and run simulation codes for the dynamics of semiconductor diode laser arrays in external cavity.
Take part in writing scientific manuscripts.
Present research in scientific meetings and conferences.