Assistant Scientist in Integrated Photonic Systems, College of Optics and Photonics

University of Central Florida • Orlando, FL

43d • Onsite

About The Position

The University of Central Florida (UCF) is seeking a 12-month, non-tenure earning Assistant Scientist, Associate Scientist, or Scientist to conduct research in the College of Optics and Photonics. This position is located at the UCF main campus with an anticipated start date in late Fall 2026 but no later than Spring 2027. UCF is a rapidly growing institution with significant external research funding, academic stature, and a diverse community, located in the metropolitan Orlando area which offers a vibrant lifestyle and numerous cultural and recreational activities. CREOL (Center for Research and Education in Optics and Lasers) is a leading institution in optical and photonic science and engineering, offering graduate and undergraduate degrees and engaging in fundamental and applied research. The Optical Communication and Photonic Systems Group is specifically looking for Assistant Research Scientists to contribute to research in integrated photonic systems for various applications including free-space and optical fiber communication, datacenter interconnects, optical signal processing, and computing. Candidates with strong expertise and the ability to conduct independent research and supervise graduate students in specified areas are encouraged to apply.

Requirements

• Ph.D. from an accredited institution in Optics, Physics, Electrical Engineering or a closely related field.
• 2 years of experience in the field.
• Must be authorized to work for any U.S. employer.
• H-1B visa sponsorship is not available for this position, and the university cannot accommodate H-1B transfers or employment-based visa processing for individuals currently sponsored by another employer.
• Must reside in Florida as of the date the employment begins (unless explicitly stated otherwise on the job posting).

Nice To Haves

• Experience in at least two or more areas of the following: active and passive photonic devices, multi-plane light conversion, integrated device fabrication, digital signal processing or system applications and demonstrations.

Responsibilities

• Conduct research in integrated photonic systems for applications in free-space and optical fiber communication, datacenter interconnects, optical signal processing and computing.
• Model, design, and optimize active and passive photonic devices using custom and commercial design and simulation packages.
• Work with multi-plane light conversion.
• Engage in integrated device fabrication (in house and/or via foundry services) using various material platforms (SiN, Si, III-V).
• Perform optical and electro-optical characterization of integrated devices and subsystems.
• Apply digital signal processing, control/optimization, and AI/ML techniques.
• Contribute to system applications and demonstrations.
• Conduct independent research.
• Supervise graduate students.

Benefits

• Medical, Dental, Vision, Life Insurance
• Flexible Spending
• Employee Assistance Program
• Paid time off, including annual (12-month faculty) and sick time off and paid holidays.
• Retirement savings options.
• Employee discounts, including tickets to many Orlando attractions.
• Education assistance.
• Flexible work environment.

What This Job Offers

• Job Type: Full-time
• Career Level: Entry Level
• Education Level: Ph.D. or professional degree